How to Fix Windows 10 Update Error 0x80244018?

To troubleshoot and resolve Windows 10 update error 0x80244018, follow this step-by-step guide:

1. Check your internet connection.

   A stable internet connection is essential for downloading Windows updates. Ensure your device is connected to the internet and try accessing a website. If the connection is slow or unstable, restart your router or switch to a different network. Persistent connection issues can cause update failures.

2. Free up disk space.

   Windows updates require sufficient free space. Open File Explorer and check your drive (usually C:). If space is limited, delete unnecessary files, empty the Recycle Bin, or move files to an external drive. Having at least 20 GB of free space improves update chances.

3. Run Windows Update Troubleshooter.

   Windows provides a built-in troubleshooter for update issues. To access it, go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters. Select Windows Update and click Run the troubleshooter. Follow the prompts to identify and fix common problems.

4. Restart your device.

   A simple restart can refresh your system and clear temporary glitches that might block updates. After restarting, go back to Settings > Update & Security and click Check for updates.

5. Reset Windows Update components.

   If the update still fails, resetting the update cache can help. Open Command Prompt as administrator and enter the following commands one by one:

   • net stop wuauserv
   • net stop bits
   • ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
   • net start wuauserv
   • net start bits

   This clears the update download folder and can resolve stuck updates.

6. Run the System File Checker (SFC).

   This tool scans and repairs corrupted system files that could interfere with updates. Open Command Prompt as administrator and type:

   sfc /scannow

   Press Enter and wait for the scan to complete. Follow any on-screen prompts to fix detected issues.

7. Check for driver issues.

   Outdated or incompatible device drivers can cause update failures. Use Device Manager to scan for outdated drivers. Update drivers for critical components like graphics and network adapters. Restart your PC after updates.

8. Perform a clean boot.

   This process starts Windows with minimal programs and services, helping identify software conflicts. To do this, type msconfig in the search bar, select System Configuration, then disable all non-Microsoft services under the Services tab. Restart your computer and try updating again.

After completing this troubleshooting guide, if your update error persists, it may be helpful to perform specific repairs on Windows Update components or seek further assistance. Next, we outline how to reset Windows Update components manually, which often resolves stubborn update problems.

How to Reset Windows Update Components

If you’re experiencing update errors on your Windows computer, resetting Windows Update components can often fix the problem. This process clears corrupted files and resets settings that might prevent updates from installing properly. Resetting these components manually is a straightforward way to troubleshoot and get your Windows updates back on track.

1. Start by stopping the Windows Update service and the Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS). To do this, open the Command Prompt as an administrator. Type the following commands, pressing Enter after each one:
   • net stop wuauserv
   • net stop bits
2. Next, remove the SoftwareDistribution folder. This folder stores temporary files related to Windows updates and can sometimes cause issues. In the same Command Prompt window, type:
   • ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old

   This command renames the folder, allowing Windows to create a new one automatically during the next update cycle.

3. Similarly, reset the Catroot2 folder, which contains security catalog files. Enter:
   • ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old
4. Now, restart the update services you stopped earlier. In the Command Prompt, type:
   • net start wuauserv
   • net start bits
5. To complete the reset, check for Windows updates manually. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, then click “Check for updates.” Windows will now re-download update files into fresh folders, which can resolve many update errors.

It’s recommended to restart your computer after these steps. If issues persist, running the Windows Update Troubleshooter from Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot can help fix remaining problems. Remember, avoid deleting or renaming system files unless explicitly instructed. Follow the steps carefully for safe troubleshooting. If all else fails, seek official support or professional help.

Using the Windows Update Troubleshooter Effectively

If you’re facing issues with Windows updates, the built-in Windows Update Troubleshooter can be a helpful tool. It is designed to automatically detect and fix common problems that prevent your system from installing updates properly. Using this troubleshooter is simple and can save you time compared to manual troubleshooting.

1. Open the Troubleshooter: Click the Start menu and select the Settings icon (gear). In the Settings window, choose Update & Security. Then, click on Troubleshoot in the sidebar. Finally, select Additional troubleshooters.
2. Find the Windows Update Troubleshooter: Scroll through the list of troubleshooters until you see Windows Update. Click on it, then press Run the troubleshooter. This launches the utility and begins scanning your system for issues.
3. Follow on-screen instructions: The troubleshooter analyzes your system and detects common update errors, such as failed downloads or installation issues. It may recommend actions like restarting your device or resetting Windows Update components. Follow these prompts carefully.
4. Apply fixes automatically: When problems are detected, the troubleshooter often offers to fix them automatically. Click Apply this fix if prompted. The tool will perform the necessary repairs in the background, often resolving many update errors quickly.
5. Restart your PC: After the troubleshooter completes, restart your device. Then, attempt to run Windows Update again to verify whether the problem is fixed.

If the troubleshooter doesn’t fix the issue, you may need to perform other manual fixes, such as resetting Windows Update components or clearing the SoftwareDistribution folder. However, this tool is an excellent first step because it addresses many common problems with minimal effort.

• Tip: Run this troubleshooter periodically, especially if you notice update errors or slow downloads. Regular checks help maintain smooth updates and early problem detection.
• Important: Make sure your system backups are current before attempting advanced fixes. Having recent backups allows you to restore your files if troubleshooting causes unexpected issues.

Alternative Methods to Fix Update Errors

When standard troubleshooting does not resolve update issues, trying alternative methods can be effective. Sometimes, problems stem from corrupted system files or conflicting background applications. Techniques like repairing system files or performing a clean boot can help you troubleshoot stubborn update errors.

Here are additional methods to fix update errors step-by-step:

1. Run the System File Checker (SFC) tool

   This utility scans your system for corrupted or missing files and repairs them automatically. To use it:

   • Press the Windows key, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
   • In the Command Prompt window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
   • Wait for the scan to complete. If issues are found, follow prompts to repair them.
2. Perform a clean boot

   A clean boot starts Windows with only essential services, helping identify software conflicts blocking updates. To do this:

   • Press Windows key + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
   • In System Configuration, go to the Services tab. Check Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
   • Navigate to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
   • Disable all startup items in Task Manager. Close Task Manager and return to System Configuration.
   • Click OK and restart your computer. Try updating again.
3. Use Windows Update Troubleshooter

   This tool can automatically detect and fix common update problems. To run it:

   • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
   • Select Additional troubleshooters.
   • Click on Windows Update and then Run the troubleshooter.
   • Follow the prompts to complete the process.

These methods often resolve more complex update issues that simple restarts or network checks cannot fix. Take your time to perform each step carefully, as they can uncover underlying problems like corrupted files or conflicting background apps. If issues continue after these attempts, consider contacting Microsoft support or seeking help from tech professionals for advanced solutions.

Final Checks Before Contacting Support

Before reaching out for technical assistance, perform some final checks to gather information and ensure your problem is persistent. These simple steps save time and help support teams diagnose the issue more efficiently. Confirming the problem after these checks ensures that support can focus on complex fixes if needed.

Key steps include:

1. Restart your device: Turn off your computer, phone, or tablet, then power it back on. Reboots often resolve fleeting glitches and refresh the system.
2. Check your connections: Make sure all cables, Wi-Fi, and peripherals are connected and functioning correctly. Damaged or loose cables can cause hardware or network issues.
3. Update your device software: Verify that your operating system and applications are current. Software updates often include bug fixes that improve stability.
4. Note error messages: Record any error codes, pop-ups, or unusual behaviors. Screenshots or written notes help in troubleshooting and speed up technical support assistance.
5. Perform basic troubleshooting: Try common solutions like clearing cache, restarting your router, or resetting settings. For example, disconnect and reconnect your Wi-Fi or restart the modem if internet issues are suspected.
6. Check hardware health: Look for visible damage or signs of hardware failure, such as overheating or broken components. Physical issues can be the root cause.
7. Research online: Search forums, FAQs, and troubleshooting guides related to your issue. You might find solutions others have used or confirm the problem is common.

These steps ensure you’ve exhausted simple solutions before contacting support. Keep documentation, including error messages and system details, ready to share. This preparation helps expedite the resolution process and avoids unnecessary delays.