The Insider’s Guide to Mastering Windows and Boosting Performance
We all know the frustration that comes with a sluggish, unresponsive Windows system. As avid Windows users ourselves, we’ve been there before. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide insider tips and tricks curated from IT professionals and system administrators for making the most out of Windows and supercharging performance.
Understanding Windows Update Error Codes
One of the most common issues Windows users face is error codes when trying to install updates or service packs. The cryptic 0x80073712 is a prime offender that stops updates dead in their tracks. This error indicates that critical Windows Update files are damaged or missing on your system. The result – your PC slows to a crawl trying and failing repeatedly to download updates.
But don’t worry, with a few targeted troubleshooting techniques, you can get past this roadblock and get your PC up to speed again in no time.
How do I fix a corrupted Windows Update?
Open Settings (press Windows + I) and go to Update & Security > Troubleshooter. Then, click on Windows Update Troubleshooter or Additional troubleshooters > Windows Update. Select Run the troubleshooter. Restart your PC and check if the Troubleshooter fixes this issue. If not, move to the next solution.
What does eadqien-usxvcnh Windows Update error 0x80073712 mean?
eADQien-USXVcnh Windows Update error 0x80073712 If you receive Windows Update error 0x80073712 or 80073712, it means that a file needed by Windows Update is damaged or missing. Windows has troubleshooting tools that can help you address this problem. Try one of these methods to resolve the problem.
10 Ways to Blast Through Error 0x80073712
Here are the top 10 methods recommended by IT pros for resolving error code 0x80073712 and related issues hampering Windows Update.
1. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter
This automated diagnostic tool by Microsoft detects and fixes common issues preventing Windows Update from working properly. Follow these steps to run it:
- Go to Start > Settings > Update & Security.
- Select Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
- Under Get up and running, select Windows Update.
- Click Run the troubleshooter.
The troubleshooter diagnoses problems and attempts to resolve them. Restart your device afterwards and check for new updates.
2. Do a Clean Shutdown
Before troubleshooting Windows Update issues, do a full shutdown instead of a fast restart. This clears any pending updates and frees up system resources.
3. Reset Windows Update Services
Stop and re-enable the Windows Update services to reset them:
- Open an administrative Command Prompt
- Type the following commands:
net stop wuauserv net stop cryptSvc net stop bits net stop msiserver Ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old Ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.old net start wuauserv net start cryptSvc net start bits net start msiserver- Close Command Prompt and check if Windows Update works.
4. Run the Disk Cleanup Tool
Disk Cleanup removes unwanted files and system files like temporary Windows Update downloads that may be damaged.
How do I update Windows 10 to the latest OS build?
Here’s how you can use the Settings app to update your computer to the latest OS build: Press the Win + I hotkeys to open the Settings app. If this key combination is not working, you can use any other method to open Settings. In the Settings app, choose the Windows Update option from the left panel. Click the Check for updates button.
How do I fix 0x80073712 error code?
Restart the computer, then check for and install any available Windows updates. Restore, refresh, or reset the PC. This action should only be performed as a last resort if none of the other troubleshooting methods correct the 0x80073712 error code. The tool preserves personal files but removes installed software and then reinstalls Windows.
How do I update Windows 10 to 21h2?
Open Settings. Click on Update & Security. Click on Windows Update. If the computer is eligible to run Windows 11, click the Stay on Windows 10 for now option (if applicable). Click the Check for updates button. Under the Feature Update to Windows 10, version 21H2 section, click the Download and install now button. Click the Restart Now button.
5. Use the DISM Tool
DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) scans and restores missing or corrupt system files needed for updating Windows.
To do this, type the following command in an administrative Command Prompt:
DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth6. Scan for Viruses
Viruses and malware can sometimes break Windows Updates. Use quality antivirus software to scan all drives and remove any infections.
7. Repair System Files
The System File Checker (SFC) utility verifies and replaces corrupt system files. To use it, type this in an administrative Command Prompt:
sfc /scannowThis scans Windows system files and replaces any that are damaged or missing.
8. Fix Drive Errors
Corrupted hard disks can prevent Windows from properly accessing update files. Run chkdsk to diagnose and repair drive errors.
9. Reset Windows Update Service Settings
- Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Type
services.mscand click OK. - Right-click on Windows Update service and select Properties.
- On the General tab, click the Stop button.
- Change the Startup type to Automatic.
- Click Apply and OK.
- Restart your PC.
This resets the Windows Update service to default settings.
Why did my Windows 10 update fail?
If your Windows 10 update failed, the most common causes include: Multiple updates queued: One of the most common causes of this failure is when Windows needs more than one update. When that happens, simply rebooting and trying again will result in a successful update. You can also solve other unpredictable and minor issues with the same fix.
What is error code 0x80073712?
A Windows Update error 0x80073712 or 80073712 means that a file needed by Windows Update or Windows Setup is either damaged or missing, forcing the update or installation to fail. Windows’ built-in tools and services are the most effective resources for troubleshooting and resolving this problem. Scan the computer for malware.
How do I install Windows 10 November 2021 update?
You can upgrade a device to the November 2021 Update in several ways, but the best method is manually launching the setup from the Windows Update settings. To install the Windows 10 November 2021 Update using Windows Update, use these steps: Open Settings. Click on Update & Security. Click on Windows Update.
How do I fix Windows 10 update error 0x80073712?
Scan your computer for viruses and other malware and then attempt the update or installation again. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter. Microsoft provides this free tool that could resolve a problem causing the 0x80073712 error code while downloading and installing Windows updates.
10. Restore, Reset or Reinstall Windows
If all else fails, perform a full OS reinstallation keeping your personal files and apps. Use the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft to install the latest Windows version.
For stuck upgrades, follow the steps here for a smooth install.[link to Microsoft guide]
Prevention is Better than Cure
Regularly maintaining your Windows PC prevents many update issues down the road:
- Keep sufficient free disk space
- Run Disk Cleanup monthly
- Don’t ignore Windows notifications
- Update device drivers
- Use a UPS for power fluctuations
- Maintain a robust antivirus program
- Back up data regularly
The Path to Windows Zen
With insider techniques like these, you can troubleshoot updates effortlessly and keep your Windows PC humming along nicely. Try out these solutions and let us know which ones worked best for you in the comments! Feel free to ask follow-up questions – we’ll help you get your PC back on track.
How do I manually download the Windows 10 update?
To download the update manually, visit: https://www.catalog.update.microsoft.com/Search.aspx?q=KB4534132 and select the appropriate update according to the version and edition of Windows that you are using i.e. 1903/1909 and x64/x86.
How do I fix Windows 10 update problems?
Windows 10 includes a troubleshooter app that can help fix a lot of update problems. Try running the troubleshooter, and see if the update can complete. Type troubleshoot into the taskbar search field and select troubleshoot settings. Click Additional troubleshooters > Windows Update. Click Run the troubleshooter. Follow the on-screen prompts.
