How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x8024A105

What Causes This?

Windows Update error 0x8024A105 usually appears when the update process gets interrupted by corrupted cache files, stuck background services, or leftover temporary update data. It can also happen if the SoftwareDistribution or Catroot2 folders contain damaged files from a failed update attempt. In some cases, system file corruption or security software interference can stop Windows Update from completing normally.

Common Symptoms

• Windows Update downloads updates but fails during installation
• You see error code 0x8024A105 in Settings > Windows Update
• Updates keep retrying and failing after a restart
• Windows Update gets stuck on “Checking for updates” or “Installing”
• Your PC feels slower or unstable after repeated failed update attempts

How to Fix It Manually

1. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter

   1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
   2. Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
   3. Find Windows Update and click Run.
   4. Let Windows apply any suggested fixes, then restart your PC.

2. Stop Windows Update services

   1. Press Windows + S, type cmd.
   2. Right-click Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator.
   3. In the Command Prompt window, run these commands one at a time:

      net stop wuauserv
      net stop bits
      net stop cryptsvc
      net stop msiserver

   4. Wait until each service reports that it has stopped successfully.

3. Clear the Windows Update cache

   1. In the same administrator Command Prompt, type:

      ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
      ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old

   2. This forces Windows to create fresh update cache folders the next time it checks for updates.

4. Restart the update services

   1. Still in Command Prompt, run:

      net start wuauserv
      net start bits
      net start cryptsvc
      net start msiserver

   2. Close Command Prompt when finished.

5. Repair system files

   1. Press Windows + S, type cmd, then open Command Prompt as administrator again.
   2. Run this command:

      sfc /scannow

   3. After that finishes, run:

      DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

   4. Restart your PC after both scans complete.

6. Check for updates again

   1. Open Settings > Windows Update.
   2. Click Check for updates.
   3. If the update installs normally, you can delete the .old folders later to free up space.

7. Temporarily disable third-party antivirus if needed

   1. If the error still appears, temporarily pause any non-Microsoft antivirus or firewall software.
   2. Try Windows Update again.
   3. Re-enable your security software immediately after testing.

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