Fixing Windows Error Code 0x80073712 Easily

Understanding Error Code 0x80073712 and Its Causes

Encountering error code 0x80073712 on your Windows system can be frustrating. This error typically arises during Windows updates and prevents the update process from completing successfully. Understanding what this error means and its potential causes is essential for resolving it effectively.

What is Error Code 0x80073712?

Error code 0x80073712 indicates that a file needed by Windows Update is either missing or corrupted. This specific error can halt the update process, leaving your system potentially vulnerable to security risks and lacking new features or performance improvements.

Common Causes of Error Code 0x80073712

There are several reasons why you might encounter this error:

1. Corrupted System Files: If essential system files are corrupted or missing, Windows Update cannot proceed correctly.
2. Software Conflicts: Sometimes, third-party software or previous updates might conflict with the new updates, causing this error.
3. Registry Issues: Problems within the Windows registry can also trigger error code 0x80073712, disrupting the update process.

User Cases of Error Code 0x80073712

To illustrate how common this issue is, let's look at some user cases from major tech forums like Reddit and Quora:

• Reddit User Case: A Reddit user reported facing error code 0x80073712 after trying to install a cumulative update. Despite several restarts and attempts to re-run the update, the error persisted.
• Quora Inquiry: On Quora, a user asked for help with error code 0x80073712 that appeared during an attempt to upgrade to Windows 10 from Windows 8.1. They were concerned about potential data loss and system instability.

These real-world examples underscore the necessity of a reliable fix for error code 0x80073712.

Detailed Solutions to Fix Error Code 0x80073712

Solution 1: Running the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Running the Windows Update Troubleshooter can automatically detect and fix many update issues, including error code 0x80073712.

1. Open Settings: Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
2. Navigate to Update & Security: Click on "Update & Security."
3. Select Troubleshoot: In the left pane, select "Troubleshoot."
4. Run the Troubleshooter: Click on "Windows Update" and then "Run the troubleshooter."
5. Follow On-Screen Instructions: Allow the troubleshooter to detect and fix issues automatically.

Solution 2: Using the System File Checker (SFC)

The System File Checker tool can repair corrupted system files that might be causing error code 0x80073712.

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator: Type cmd in the search bar, right-click on Command Prompt, and select "Run as administrator."
2. Run SFC Scan: Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
3. Wait for the Scan to Complete: This process may take some time. Ensure you do not close the Command Prompt window until the verification is 100% complete.
4. Restart Your Computer: After the scan, restart your computer and try updating again.

Solution 3: Performing a DISM Scan

The Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM) can fix Windows corruption errors.

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator: As with the SFC scan, open Command Prompt with administrative privileges.
2. Run DISM Command: Type DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth and press Enter.
3. Wait for the Process to Complete: This can take up to 20 minutes, depending on your system.
4. Restart Your Computer: Restart your system and attempt the update again.

Solution 4: Resetting Windows Update Components

Resetting the Windows Update components can often resolve persistent update errors like error code 0x80073712.

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator: Open Command Prompt with admin rights.
2. Stop Windows Update Services: Type the following commands, pressing Enter after each one:
   • net stop wuauserv
   • net stop cryptSvc
   • net stop bits
   • net stop msiserver
3. Rename SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 Folders:
   • ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
   • ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old
4. Restart Windows Update Services: Type the following commands, pressing Enter after each:
   • net start wuauserv
   • net start cryptSvc
   • net start bits
   • net start msiserver
5. Retry the Update: After resetting the components, try running Windows Update again.

Solution 5: Running the Windows Update Standalone Installer

Using the Windows Update Standalone Installer can help bypass some issues that the built-in updater encounters.

1. Download the Update: Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog and download the update you need.
2. Run the Installer: Open the downloaded file to start the update process.
3. Follow the Prompts: Complete the installation by following on-screen instructions.
4. Restart Your Computer: After installation, restart your computer to finalize the update.

Solution 6: Performing a Clean Boot

A clean boot can help identify if any third-party software is causing error code 0x80073712.

1. Open System Configuration: Type msconfig in the search bar and press Enter.
2. Select Selective Startup: Under the General tab, select "Selective startup" and uncheck "Load startup items."
3. Disable Services: Go to the Services tab, check "Hide all Microsoft services," then click "Disable all."
4. Open Task Manager: Go to the Startup tab in Task Manager and disable all startup items.
5. Restart Your Computer: Restart and attempt the update again.

Solution 7: Manually Resetting the Windows Update Components

Manually resetting the Windows Update components involves more detailed steps but can be very effective.

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator: Open Command Prompt with administrative rights.
2. Stop Update Services: Stop the Windows Update services as described in Solution 4.
3. Delete qmgr.dat Files:* Type Del "%ALLUSERSPROFILE%\Application Data\Microsoft\Network\Downloader\qmgr.dat"* and press Enter.
4. Re-register Update Components:
   • cd /d %windir%\system32
   • regsvr32.exe atl.dll
   • regsvr32.exe urlmon.dll
   • regsvr32.exe mshtml.dll
5. Reset Winsock: Type netsh winsock reset and press Enter.
6. Restart Your Computer: Restart and try updating again.

Solution 8: Performing an In-Place Upgrade

An in-place upgrade reinstalls Windows without affecting your files and applications, fixing any update issues.

1. Download the Windows Media Creation Tool: Visit the Microsoft website and download the tool.
2. Run the Tool: Open the downloaded file and select "Upgrade this PC now."
3. Follow the Prompts: Choose "Keep personal files and apps" and continue with the installation.
4. Wait for the Process to Complete: This can take some time, depending on your system.
5. Retry Windows Update: After the in-place upgrade, attempt to run Windows Update again.

How to Use AOMEI Backupper to Backup Windows OS

Using AOMEI Backupper to create a backup of your Windows OS ensures you have a safety net in case something goes wrong. Here’s how to do it:

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Preparation Before Backup

• Download and Install AOMEI Backupper: Visit the official AOMEI website to download and install the software.
• Connect an External Drive: Ensure you have an external drive connected to store the backup.

Detailed Steps for Backup

1. Open AOMEI Backupper: Launch the software and go to the "Backup" section.
2. Select System Backup: Choose "System Backup" to back up your Windows OS.
3. Choose the Backup Destination: Select your external drive as the destination for the backup.
4. Start the Backup: Click "Start Backup" and wait for the process to complete.
5. Verify the Backup: After completion, check the backup to ensure it was successful.

Common Precautions After Backup

• Store the Backup Safely: Keep your external drive in a safe place.
• Regularly Update the Backup: Schedule regular backups to ensure your data is always current.
• Test Restore Function: Periodically test the restore function to ensure your backups are reliable.

Answering Relevant Questions About Error Code 0x80073712

What Should I Do If None of the Solutions Work?

If none of the solutions fix error code 0x80073712, consider seeking professional help. There may be deeper issues within your system that require expert attention.

How Can I Prevent Error Code 0x80073712 in the Future?

Regular maintenance, such as running SFC and DISM scans periodically, keeping your system updated, and using reliable antivirus software, can help prevent error code 0x80073712.

Is It Safe to Perform an In-Place Upgrade?

Yes, performing an in-place upgrade is generally safe and can resolve many issues without affecting your personal files or applications.

Can I Use Other Backup Software Besides AOMEI Backupper?

While there are other backup software options, AOMEI Backupper is highly recommended for its reliability and ease of use.

How Often Should I Backup My System?

It’s advisable to back up your system at least once a month or more frequently if you make significant changes or store important data regularly.

Explaining Three Technical Terms

System File Checker (SFC)

The System File Checker (SFC) is a Windows utility that allows users to scan and restore corrupted system files. Running sfc /scannow in Command Prompt can repair missing or damaged files critical for system operations.

Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM)

The Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM) is another Windows utility that helps fix system corruption issues. It repairs the Windows image and resolves component store corruption, ensuring smooth operation of the update process.

Windows Update Standalone Installer (WUSA)

The Windows Update Standalone Installer (WUSA) is a tool that allows users to manually install Windows updates. By downloading update packages from the Microsoft Update Catalog, users can bypass issues with the automatic update process.

Three Tips for Smooth Windows Update Process

1. Keep Your System Clean: Regularly run maintenance tools like disk cleanup and defragmentation to keep your system optimized.
2. Update Drivers: Ensure all your hardware drivers are up-to-date to avoid compatibility issues during updates.
3. Use Reliable Antivirus Software: Protect your system from malware and viruses that can corrupt system files and disrupt updates.

Conclusion: Why You Should Use AOMEI Backupper

AOMEI Backupper is an excellent choice for backing up your Windows OS due to its user-friendly interface and robust features. By using AOMEI Backupper, you can ensure your data is always safe and easily recoverable, providing peace of mind and preventing data loss during system errors or updates.