Windows Update Error 80072EFE

Windows Update is a vital component of the Windows operating system, ensuring that your computer remains secure and up to date with the latest features and fixes.

However, encountering errors during the update process can be frustrating, and one such error is Windows Update Error 80072EFE.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the meaning of this error, explore its root causes, and provide easy-to-follow methods to fix it, ensuring that you can keep your Windows system up to date without hassle.

Windows Update Error 80072EFE

Understanding Windows Update Error 80072EFE

What Does the Error Code Mean?

Windows Update Error 80072EFE is a common error code that indicates a problem with connecting to the Windows Update servers. When this error occurs, your computer is unable to download and install the latest updates from Microsoft.

This can leave your system vulnerable to security threats and prevent you from accessing new features and improvements.

Versions of Windows Affected

Windows Update Error 80072EFE can affect various versions of the Windows operating system, including Windows 10, Windows 8.1, Windows 7, and older versions. Regardless of the version you are using, the error symptoms and solutions are generally consistent.

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Common Causes of the Error

Understanding the root causes of this error is crucial in effectively troubleshooting and resolving it. Some common reasons for Windows Update Error 80072EFE include:

  1. Internet Connection Issues: Network problems, including slow or unreliable internet connections, can disrupt the communication between your computer and the Windows Update servers.
  2. Corrupted Windows Update Files: Over time, Windows Update files may become corrupted, preventing the update process from completing successfully.
  3. Firewall or Security Software: Third-party firewall or security software can sometimes interfere with the Windows Update process, leading to this error.
  4. Malware or Virus Infections: Malicious software can manipulate your system settings and interfere with Windows Update operations.

How To Fix Windows Update Error 80072EFE

Method 1: Removing Rootkits With the tdsskiller.exe Programme.

We’ll start with malware interference because it can cause far more problems than simply stopping an update. There is a common association between the 80072EFE error and the win.32 TDDS family of rootkit malware.

This rootkit is known to block Windows Defender’s reactive capabilities and prevent security updates from being installed. Fortunately, eliminating the harmful rootkit files is a breeze.

The rootkit files may be easily removed with the new executable released by Kaspersky Labs. Read this tutorial to learn how to use tdsskiler.exe:

  1. exe, please.
  2. To initiate a scan, simply launch the programme and select the appropriate option.
  3. TDSSKiller is preprogrammed to automatically terminate any treatments it discovers. It’s time to restart the computer now that everything is done.
  4. In Windows Update, retry installing any available updates to see if they work.

Method 2: Taking Down Security Measures

In the event that running tdsskiller.exe had no results, we should check to make sure that a firewall or antivirus programme installed on your computer is not blocking the tool from doing its job.

It is possible for a third-party firewall or antivirus programme to falsely flag the Windows update connection as insecure. Because of this, Windows won’t be able to update itself.

The 80072EFE issue occurs frequently due to incompatibilities between Windows Defender and alternative security software. It has been determined that the following firewalls are to blame for this problem:

  • Norton Internet Security
  • Panda Firewall
  • Zone Alarm Firewall
  • McAfee firewall
  • AVG firewall

Disable any of the aforementioned third-party firewalls, restart your computer, and give the update another shot if you’re having trouble. It is recommended to disable any firewall software before updating Windows, however this is not limited to just Microsoft’s own product.

Method 3: Doing Away With The CatRoot2 Directory

The Windows Update procedure necessitates the use of the catroot2 folder, which is part of the Windows system. The signatures of the Windows Update package are kept in the catroot2 folder, which is updated whenever Windows Update is used.

It turns out that the 80072EFE error and other Windows update issues can be resolved by deleting the contents of the catroo2 folder. In order to proceed with this strategy, you must first stop the Cryptographic service from using a file in the CatRoot2 folder.

Following this brief tutorial, you can turn off Cryptographic Services and remove the CatRoot2 folder.

  1. You may bring up the Run dialogue by pressing the Windows key plus R. In order to access the Services window, type Services.msc and hit Enter.
  2. To access Cryptographic Services, please scroll down and double-click on the appropriate link. When the Cryptographic Services Properties window appears, click the General tab. If the service is turned on, you can disable it by clicking the Stop option. If it is not active, then you can proceed.
  3. Proceed to C: Windows System32 and look for the Catroot2 directory. Select Delete from the context menu. In order to carry this out, you must have administrative rights.
  4. To restart Cryptographic Services, go back to the window’s General tab and click the Start button.
  5. Try installing the Windows update again after restarting your machine.

Method 4: Windows Local Group Policy Reset

Windows Update may not instal critical updates if you have a custom Windows Group Policy blocking it. For other customers, restoring their local group policy settings was all it took to get rid of the 80072EFE problem and restore regular Windows update functionality.

Here is a simple tutorial on how to restore the factory-setting local group policy:

  1. A Run window can be accessed by pressing the Windows key plus R. To access the Local Group Policy Editor, type gpedit.msc and press Enter.
  2. Click the All Settings button in Local Computer Policy > Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates.
  3. To see which options are active, look at the panel on the right. To narrow your search, select a state from the drop-down menu next to the State button. This will arrange the data such that it’s easier to find recently updated policies.
  4. To change the configuration of a policy from Enabled or Disabled to Not configured, double-click the policy in question. When you’re finished, make sure that every option is set to “Not configured.”
  5. After restoring the factory settings, restart your computer and run Windows Update manually.

Some Easy Methods to Fix the 80072EFE Error Easily:

Now that we have a grasp of what causes Windows Update Error 80072EFE, let’s explore some easy methods to resolve it and keep your Windows system updated.

Method 1: Check Your Internet Connection

  1. Ensure that your internet connection is stable and has sufficient bandwidth for downloading updates.
  2. Restart your router or modem if you suspect network issues.
  3. Try using a different network connection, such as a mobile hotspot, to see if the error persists.

Method 2: Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

  1. Press Win + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Go to “Update & Security” > “Troubleshoot.”
  3. Run the “Windows Update” troubleshooter to automatically detect and fix issues related to Windows Update.

Method 3: Disable Third-Party Firewall or Security Software

  1. Temporarily disable any third-party firewall or security software on your computer.
  2. Attempt to run Windows Update again to see if the error is resolved.
  3. If the error is gone, consider adding Windows Update as an exception in your security software settings.

Method 4: Scan for Malware or Viruses

  1. Perform a full system scan using reputable antivirus or antimalware software to ensure your system is not infected.
  2. Quarantine or remove any detected threats, and then attempt to run Windows Update again.

Method 5: Reset Windows Update Components

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
  2. Run the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
    • 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

Method 6: Use the Windows Update Catalog Website

  1. Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog website.
  2. Search for the specific updates that are failing to install.
  3. Download and install the updates manually from the website.

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Conclusion

Windows Update Error 80072EFE can be a hindrance to keeping your Windows system secure and up to date. By following the methods outlined in this guide, you can troubleshoot and resolve the error effectively.

Whether it’s network issues, corrupted files, or third-party software conflicts, these steps will help you overcome the error and maintain a well-maintained and secure Windows system.