How to Fix Error Code 0x80070424-0x90018 and Successfully Upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10

Resolving the “Error: 0x80070424-0x90018” When Upgrading from Windows 7 to Windows 10

Upgrading from Windows 7 to Windows 10 can sometimes result in the frustrating error code 0x80070424-0x90018. This often prevents the upgrade from completing successfully, leaving you stuck on the aging Windows 7 operating system.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the top solutions for resolving error 0x80070424-0x90018, so you can finally upgrade to Windows 10 without issues.

What Does Error Code 0x80070424-0x90018 Mean?

The 0x80070424-0x90018 error code indicates that a required Windows service is missing or not properly installed. Specifically, it means "The specified service does not exist as an installed service."

This is often caused by an antivirus or other third-party program interfering with the upgrade process. Windows services related to the Windows Update, cryptographic, MSI installer, and BITS (Background Intelligent Transfer Service) components may also be the culprit.

What causes Windows Update error 0x80070424?

Additionally, your antivirus mistakenly blocking the update files or the Windows Update Service stopping unexpectedly can also trigger error code 0x80070424. How Can I Fix Windows Update Error 0x80070424?

How do I update my version of Windows 10?

To check for updates, select Start > Settings > Windows Update , then select Check for updates. If updates are available, you can choose to install them. If you run into problems updating your device, including problems with previous major updates, see common fixes at Troubleshoot problems updating Windows.

To successfully upgrade, we need to resolve the underlying service issue. Let’s look at the most effective ways to do this.

Temporarily Uninstall or Disable Third-Party Antivirus

One of the most common causes of error 0x80070424-0x90018 is the interference of a third-party antivirus or security program. These types of applications can sometimes block or disrupt critical Windows services needed for the upgrade.

To test if your antivirus is the issue, temporarily uninstall it or disable the real-time scanning feature. Be sure to re-enable your antivirus after completing the Windows 10 upgrade.

You can also enable the built-in Windows Defender antivirus before upgrading:

1. Open the Start menu and search for "Windows Defender Security Center".
2. Click "Virus & threat protection".
3. Under "Virus & threat protection settings", switch the toggle for "Real-time protection" to On.

This will provide baseline antivirus protection while disabling your third-party antivirus that may be blocking the upgrade.

Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot starts Windows with only the bare minimum processes and services. This isolates any problematic third-party services.

How do I fix Windows Update error?

Windows updates rely on specific system files to download and install update packages securely. If these system files are not properly registered on the system, it can result in the error you are experiencing. To resolve this issue, you need to register these system files. Here’s how you can register the files: Press Winkey + R to open Run.

How do I check if my PC is compatible with Windows 10?

To check this on your PC, go to PC info in PC settings or System in Control Panel, and look for System type. System requirements. Make sure the PC meets the system requirements for Windows 10. We also recommend going to the PC manufacturer’s website for additional info about updated drivers and hardware compatibility.

To perform a clean boot before upgrading:

1. Open the Start menu and search for "msconfig".
2. Go to the "Services" tab.
3. Check the box that says "Hide all Microsoft services".
4. Click "Disable all".
5. Go to the "Startup" tab.
6. Click "Open Task Manager".
7. Go to the "Startup" tab in Task Manager.
8. Disable any unnecessary startup applications.
9. Restart your computer.

After upgrading, be sure to undo these steps and re-enable your normal startup applications.

Scan and Repair System Files

Corrupted system files can sometimes cause the 0x80070424-0x90018 error. Scanning and repairing system files may resolve this:

1. Open an elevated Command Prompt ("Run as administrator").
2. Type "sfc /scannow" and hit Enter. This scans system files.
3. Type "DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth" and hit Enter. This repairs any issues.

Restart your computer after running these commands. The system file scan and repair should now allow the upgrade to succeed.

Reset Windows Update Components

Resetting the Windows Update components and services will reinitialize them to a clean, working state:

Will Windows 10 update be current?

Windows Update will only be current as of the date of the image file used for the in-place upgrade install. All subsequent updates will have to be applied to make the new installation current. By default, Windows 10 turns System Protection off.

How to fix Windows 10 error 0x80070424?

After the restart, press the Windows key + R, type s ervices.msc, and click OK. Next, locate and right-click on the Windows Update service and select Restart/Start. Next, go to Settings > Update & Security and check if the error 0x80070424 is resolved and you can install pending updates. 4. Scan Your Computer for Malware

1. Open an elevated Command Prompt.
2. Type the following commands, pressing Enter after each:
   • net stop wuauserv
   • net stop cryptSvc
   • net stop bits
   • net stop msiserver
3. Type the following commands, pressing Enter after each:
   • ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
   • ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.old
4. Type the following commands, pressing Enter after each:
   • net start wuauserv
   • net start cryptSvc
   • net start bits
   • net start msiserver
5. Restart your computer.

This will reset the Windows Update services and reinitialize the component folders, resolving any corruption-related issues.

Manually Install the Windows 10 Upgrade

If all else fails, you can attempt to manually download and install the Windows 10 upgrade file.

1. Go to the Microsoft Update Catalog website.
2. Search for the Windows 10 upgrade file for your edition of Windows 7.
3. Download the .msu file.
4. Double-click the file to install it.

Manually initiating the upgrade may allow it to complete successfully. Be sure to fully uninstall your antivirus and perform the other steps first, as the underlying issue must be resolved.

How do I fix Windows 10 update error?

Press Winkey + R to open Run. Reboot your system and then run the update. The error can often be caused when the Windows Update, Background Intelligent Transfer Service, and Workstation services are not running. In such cases, you will need to visit Windows Services and start them manually.

How do I cancel a Windows 10 repair install?

Since a repair install requires using the same as currently installed to keep everything, it’s best to update afterwards instead of during to avoid any possible update issues. This is your last chance to cancel the repair install by closing the Windows 10 Setup window. Once you click/tap on Install, it will be too late to cancel.

How do I fix Windows Update not installing updates?

If the Windows Update service is not installing updates as it should, try manually restarting the program. Launch Search and type Command Prompt. Right-click and select Run as Administrator. Type the following command then press Enter: The Command Prompt will run the command.

Persistence Is Key

Error 0x80070424-0x90018 can be tricky to fix, often requiring multiple attempts and troubleshooting steps. Try restarting your computer and rerunning the upgrade between each solution. Combining several fixes like a clean boot, system file repair, and Windows Update reset may finally do the trick.

Don’t get discouraged if the upgrade fails a few times. Identify any third-party programs causing conflicts, repair your system files, and reset those Windows services to eventually conquer error 0x80070424-0x90018. Soon you’ll be running the latest Windows 10 and enjoying its improved security and features.

References

1. https://windowsreport.com/windows-update-error-0x80070424/
2. https://appuals.com/fix-windows-update-error-0x80070424/

How do you check for updates in Windows 10?

Here are a few simple steps to manually check for Windows 10 updates. 1. Select the Start (Windows) button from the bottom-left corner. 2. Go to settings (gear icon). 3. Select the Update & Security icon 4. Choose the Windows Update tab in the left sidebar (circular arrows) 5. Click the Check for updates button.

What is Windows Update error 0x80070424?

Windows Update Error 0x80070424 occurs when the required system files are not properly registered. This error typically arises when trying to update the system using the Windows Update Standalone Installer or the Windows Update feature in Settings. What causes the Windows Update Error 0x80070424?