Windows Update is essential for keeping your system secure, stable, and compatible with the latest hardware and software. But when you try to install updates and are met with an error code like 0x80070005, it can stop your entire update process. This specific error typically means “Access Denied,” and is commonly caused by permission issues, system file corruption, or conflicts with third-party software. Fortunately, the issue can be resolved with a few methodical troubleshooting steps.
The first step is to understand what triggers this error. Error 0x80070005 may occur during Windows Update, feature upgrades, or app installations from the Microsoft Store. In most cases, the root cause is that Windows lacks the necessary permissions to modify files or registry settings during the update process. This might be due to user account restrictions, file corruption, antivirus interference, or broken update components.
Before diving into deeper fixes, start with the basics: reboot your computer and try the update again. Sometimes a pending process or a temporary glitch can cause the error.
If the problem persists, run the Windows Update Troubleshooter, which is built into Windows. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters > Windows Update. Click “Run the troubleshooter” and follow the prompts. This tool can automatically detect and fix common update issues, including missing services and misconfigured settings.
Next, check your user account permissions. Ensure you are logged in as an administrator. Press Windows + R, type netplwiz, and verify that your account is part of the “Administrators” group. Limited accounts may not be able to apply system-level changes, which causes access errors during updates.
You should also check for file or registry permission issues. Run the System File Checker (SFC) and DISM tools to scan and repair system corruption. Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run
sfc /scannow
dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth
These tools check the integrity of Windows system files and restore damaged or missing components, which can interfere with the update process.
If you’re using a third-party antivirus, consider disabling it temporarily. Some security programs aggressively block file and registry changes, causing permission-denied errors during update operations. After disabling the software, retry the update. If it works, add Windows Update as an exception or switch to Windows Defender.
Sometimes, corrupted Windows Update components are the cause. To reset them manually, open Command Prompt as Administrator and type
These commands stop the update services, rename the cache folders (where corrupted files may reside), and restart everything. After running them, try checking for updates again.
If the error occurs during a feature update or version upgrade (such as moving from Windows 10 to 11), using the Windows Media Creation Tool can bypass permission errors. Download it from Microsoft’s website, run the in-place upgrade option, and choose “Keep personal files and apps.” This method installs the update like a fresh OS without wiping your data.
Additionally, make sure essential update services are running. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and verify that the following services are set to “Automatic” and are running:
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Windows Update (wuauserv)
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Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS)
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Cryptographic Services (cryptsvc)
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Windows Installer (msiserver)
In rare cases, Group Policy or Registry restrictions might block updates. If you’re on a work or school network, contact your system administrator. Otherwise, press Windows + R, type gpedit.msc, and navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update. Ensure no settings are preventing automatic updates.
Finally, if all else fails, consider performing a repair install using the Media Creation Tool. This process refreshes all system files and update mechanisms while keeping your apps and personal files intact.
In summary, Windows Update error 0x80070005 indicates permission issues preventing updates from installing. Common causes include corrupted files, insufficient privileges, third-party antivirus interference, or damaged update components. By running system scans, resetting update services, verifying permissions, and using repair tools, you can usually restore update functionality without a complete reinstall.
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