Feature Update to Windows 10, Version 1903 – Error 0x80080008: How to Fix It

If you’re using Windows 10, you know how important it is to keep your operating system up to date. Microsoft regularly releases new versions and updates that provide new features, security enhancements, and bug fixes.

One of the latest versions is Windows 10, version 1903, which was released in May 2019. This version comes with a range of improvements, including a new light mode, enhanced search capabilities, and better control over updates.

What is Error 0x80080008?

However, updating to Windows 10, version 1903 is not always a smooth process. Some users have reported encountering an error code 0x80080008 when trying to install the update. This error code can be frustrating and prevent you from getting the latest version of Windows 10.

Error code 0x80080008 is a Windows Update error that indicates a problem with the Windows Update service. It can occur when the update process is stuck, corrupted, or incomplete. The error message may also indicate that the service is not running or that some components are missing.

Feature Update to Windows 10, Version 1903

Windows 10, version 1903, comes with several new features and improvements that can enhance your productivity, security, and user experience. Here are some of the highlights:

New Light Mode

The new light mode provides a fresh look and feel for Windows 10. It uses lighter colors and a brighter background, making it easier on the eyes, especially during the day.

Enhanced Search Capabilities

The search box on the taskbar now supports new search features, including web results, documents, and apps. You can also use voice input to search for what you need.

Control Over Updates

Windows 10, version 1903, lets you choose when and how to install updates. You can now pause updates for up to 35 days, specify active hours when you don’t want to be interrupted, and control how much bandwidth updates can use.

How to Fix Error 0x80080008

If you encounter error 0x80080008 when updating to Windows 10, version 1903, don’t worry. Here are some steps you can take to fix the error:

Step 1: Check Your Internet Connection

Make sure that your device is connected to the internet and that the connection is stable. Slow or intermittent connections can cause update errors. You can try resetting your router or modem, or connect to a different network.

Step 2: Restart Windows Update Services

The error code 0x80080008 can be caused by a problem with the Windows Update service. To fix this, you can try restarting the relevant services. Here’s how:

1. Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “services.msc” and press Enter.
3. Find the Windows Update service and the Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS).
4. Right-click each service and select “Stop.”
5. Wait a few seconds, and then right-click each service and select “Start.”
6. Restart your device and try updating again.

Step 3: Clear Windows Update Cache

The Windows Update cache can also become corrupted or incomplete, leading to errors. You can clear the cache and restart the update process. Here’s how:

1. Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “cmd” and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to run Command Prompt as administrator.
3. Type the following command and press Enter: “net stop wuauserv”. This stops the Windows Update service.
4. Type the following command and press Enter: “net stop cryptSvc”. This stops the Cryptographic Services.
5. Type the following command and press Enter: “net stop bits”. This stops the Background Intelligent Transfer Service.
6. Type the following command and press Enter: “net stop msiserver”. This stops the Windows Installer Service.
7. Navigate to the following folder: C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution.
8. Delete all the files and folders inside the SoftwareDistribution folder.
9. Go back to the Command Prompt window.
10. Type the following command and press Enter: “net start wuauserv”. This starts the Windows Update service.
11. Type the following command and press Enter: “net start cryptSvc”. This starts the Cryptographic Services.
12. Type the following command and press Enter: “net start bits”. This starts the Background Intelligent Transfer Service.
13. Type the following command and press Enter: “net start msiserver”. This starts the Windows Installer Service.
14. Restart your device and try updating again.

Step 4: Use the Windows Update Troubleshooter

If the above steps didn’t work, you can try using the Windows Update Troubleshooter, which is a built-in tool in Windows 10 that can diagnose and fix common update problems. Here’s how:

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
2. Select “Windows Update” and click “Run the troubleshooter.”
3. Follow the on-screen instructions and let the troubleshooter run.
4. Restart your device and try updating again.

Step 5: Reinstall Windows

As a last resort I would recommend a clean install of windows. Sometimes Windows files can become corrupt and it starts out as a small issue, but then moves onto more problems down the road. If you are experiencing issues with your system a clean install of Windows will remove any errors completely. You can find out the exact steps to install windows 10 and 11 here.

Conclusion

As a tech professional, I understand the frustration and inconvenience that can come with encountering errors while trying to update your device. However, it’s important to remember that these errors can often be resolved with a few simple steps. In the case of error 0x80080008 when updating to Windows 10, version 1903, there are several solutions you can try.

Starting with the basic solutions such as checking your internet connection and ensuring that your device meets the minimum system requirements for the update is always a good idea. If those don’t work, you can try stopping and starting the necessary services, clearing the Windows Update cache, and using the Windows Update Troubleshooter.

While it may seem like a lot of steps, each one is straightforward and easy to follow. Taking the time to troubleshoot the error can save you from further problems down the line and ensure that your device is up-to-date with the latest features and improvements.

As technology continues to advance, it’s essential to keep your device updated to stay secure and optimized for performance. By staying up-to-date with the latest software updates, you can take advantage of the latest features and improvements while keeping your device running smoothly.

In conclusion, encountering error 0x80080008 when updating to Windows 10, version 1903, doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the steps outlined in this article, you can troubleshoot and fix the error, ensuring that your device is up-to-date and optimized for performance. As always, it’s essential to keep your device updated regularly to ensure that it remains secure and efficient.