0x8007007a
Microsoft Windows Update
Severity: ModerateWhat it means
Error 0x8007007a means a Windows Update file could not be read or is corrupted.
The update downloaded but failed during installation due to data integrity issues.
Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter and clear the update cache.
Affected Models
- Windows 11
- Windows 10
Common Causes
- Downloaded update file is corrupted
- Windows Update cache contains damaged files
- Disk errors preventing the update from being read
- Third-party antivirus interfering with the update process
- Insufficient disk space for the update
How to Fix It
-
Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter.
Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Windows Update.
This automatically detects and fixes common update problems. -
Clear the Windows Update cache.
Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run:
net stop wuauserv
rd /s /q C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution
net start wuauserv
This forces Windows to re-download the update fresh. -
Run disk checking: chkdsk C: /f.
Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
Schedule a disk check for the next restart if the drive is in use. -
Temporarily disable third-party antivirus.
Some antivirus software blocks Windows Update files during installation.
Disable it temporarily, install the update, then re-enable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to delete the SoftwareDistribution folder?
Yes.
This folder contains cached update files.
Windows recreates it automatically and re-downloads any needed updates.
What if the update keeps failing?
Try downloading the update manually from the Microsoft Update Catalog website.
Search for the KB number (e.g. KB5034441) and install it directly.