Windows Update Error 0x80073712 — Component Store Corrupted Fix

What Does This Error Mean?

The 0x80073712 error means the Windows component store is corrupted. The component store is like a warehouse where Windows keeps all the parts it needs to install updates. When files in this warehouse are damaged or missing, updates cannot be installed.

Affected Models

Windows 10
Windows 11
Windows 8.1

Common Causes

The Windows component store (WinSxS folder) has corrupted or missing files
A previous Windows update installation was interrupted by a power loss or forced restart
Disk errors have damaged files in the component store
Aggressive disk cleanup tools accidentally deleted files Windows still needs
A system crash occurred while an update was being installed

How to Fix It

Run the DISM repair tool first. Open Command Prompt as Administrator and type: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

This is the primary tool for fixing component store corruption. It downloads clean copies of damaged files from Microsoft. Requires internet.
After DISM completes, run System File Checker. In the same Command Prompt, type: sfc /scannow

Run DISM before SFC. SFC uses the component store to repair files, so the store needs to be fixed first.
Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter. Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Windows Update.

The troubleshooter can reset update components and clear cached data that may be causing conflicts.
Clear the update cache. In Administrator Command Prompt, run: net stop wuauserv — then: ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old — then: net start wuauserv

Restart your computer after this and try Windows Update again.
If all else fails, perform a repair install. Download the Windows Installation Media tool from Microsoft's website and choose 'Upgrade this PC now.'

This reinstalls Windows while keeping all your files, programs, and settings. It effectively rebuilds the component store from scratch.

When to Call a Professional

If the DISM tool cannot repair the component store, a more advanced repair may be needed. A technician can perform an in-place upgrade (repair install) which rebuilds Windows without losing your files. This is the most reliable fix for severe component store corruption.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Windows component store?

Think of it as a warehouse of spare parts for Windows. It stores all the files needed to install updates, add Windows features, and repair the system. It is located in the C:\Windows\WinSxS folder and can be several gigabytes in size.

Is it safe to delete files from the WinSxS folder?

No. Never manually delete files from WinSxS. Windows manages this folder automatically and many files are shared with the rest of the system. Deleting the wrong file can break Windows entirely. Use Disk Cleanup instead if you need to free space.

How long does DISM /RestoreHealth take?

It usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, but can take longer on slower internet connections. DISM downloads replacement files from Microsoft's servers. Do not interrupt the process — let it finish completely even if it appears stuck at a certain percentage.