How to Fix Windows 11 Update or Upgrade Error 0x80070003 – 0x40008
If you’re trying to install or upgrade to Windows 11 and see the error 0x80070003 – 0x40008, you’re dealing with a critical setup issue. This often appears with the message:
“Setup has encountered a critical error: 0x80070003 – 0x40008”
Don’t worry — this issue can usually be fixed by running a few commands in Command Prompt. Here’s how to do it step-by-step.
Fixing Error Code 0x80070003 – 0x40008
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator
- Click Search in the taskbar.
- Type cmd.
- Right-click Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator.
- Click Yes if prompted by User Account Control.
- Run the Following Commands
Copy and paste the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
| cmd |
| CopyEdit |
| 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 |
These commands:
- Stop update-related services
- Rename the update folders (forcing Windows to create fresh copies)
- Restart the services
- Retry the Update or Setup
- If you’re using a setup file, try running it again now.
- If you’re updating through Windows settings:
- Go to Settings > Windows Update
- Click Check for updates
- Proceed with the update installation
Endnote
The error 0x80070003 – 0x40008 usually means there’s a problem with update-related system files. Resetting Windows Update components like this can resolve it quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What causes error 0x80070003 – 0x40008 in Windows 11?
Corrupted update files or a failed setup process typically cause it.
Q2: Is it safe to rename SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2?
Yes. Windows recreates these folders automatically when needed.
Q3: Can I run these commands if I’m not tech-savvy?
Absolutely. Just follow the instructions step-by-step and copy-paste each command.
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