How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80070002
By Priya Shah
· About Zone Desire
Quick answer
Error 0x80070002 means "file not found". Windows Update cannot find a file it needs, usually because the update download is incomplete. Clear the Windows Update cache (SoftwareDistribution folder), check the date and time, and try the update again.
What does “0x80070002” mean?
The update files Windows downloaded are missing or incomplete, so the install cannot continue.
What causes it?
- Corrupted or incomplete update download
- Wrong date, time or time zone
- Interrupted previous update
- Damaged system files
Steps to try
Stop when the issue is resolved.
- Open Settings → Time & language → Date & time and turn on Set time automatically.
- Open Command Prompt as administrator.
- Run: net stop wuauserv and then net stop bits
- Rename C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution to SoftwareDistribution.old
- Run: net start wuauserv and then net start bits
- Restart the PC and check for updates again.
Need more support? Check the official help: Microsoft Support
FAQs
Is it safe to rename the SoftwareDistribution folder?
Yes. Windows creates a fresh folder and downloads the updates again. You only lose the update history list.
Does 0x80070002 also appear outside Windows Update?
Yes. It can appear in backup or install tools. The meaning is the same: a file or path was not found.