Error Code 0x80073712

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by

Vector Linux
in

When I encountered error code 0x80073712 while trying to update my Windows system, it felt like a major roadblock in my day. The frustration of not knowing what caused the error and how to fix it prompted me to dive deeper into understanding this specific error code.

Through my research and troubleshooting journey, I discovered that error code 0x80073712 is commonly associated with Windows Update issues. It often indicates that a file needed by Windows Update is damaged or missing, leading to the update process being unable to proceed as expected.

Join me as we explore the various causes and solutions related to error code 0x80073712, unraveling the mysteries behind this pesky error to help you resolve it swiftly and get your system back on track.

Overview

When encountering error code 0x80073712, it can be quite frustrating as it indicates a problem with Windows Update components. Personally, I’ve faced this error before, and I understand the inconvenience it can cause when trying to update the system.

Causes

When it comes to troubleshooting error code 0x80073712, understanding the possible causes is crucial. Let’s dive into what could be triggering this pesky error:

  • Corrupt system files: One of the primary culprits behind error code 0x80073712 is corrupt or damaged system files. These files are essential for the proper functioning of your operating system, and any issues with them can lead to various errors, including this one.
  • Incomplete Windows updates: If Windows updates fail to install correctly or if some components are missing or corrupted, you may encounter error code 0x80073712. Keeping your system up to date is vital, but sometimes the update process itself can cause issues.
  • Third-party software interference: Certain third-party applications or software installed on your system can interfere with Windows Update processes, leading to errors like 0x80073712. It’s essential to identify if any recently installed programs might be causing conflicts.
  • Registry errors: Issues within the Windows registry can also trigger error code 0x80073712. The registry is a critical database that stores settings and options for Windows and its components. If it becomes corrupted or contains incorrect data, various errors can occur.

Understanding these possible causes can help you navigate the troubleshooting process effectively and get closer to resolving error code 0x80073712 on your system.

1. Corrupt System Files

When encountering error code 0x80073712 on your system, one of the potential causes could be corrupt system files. Dealing with corrupt system files can be frustrating, but there are steps you can take to address this issue.

To tackle this problem, you can use the System File Checker tool to scan and repair corrupted files. This built-in Windows utility helps verify the integrity of system files and replaces missing or damaged files. To run this tool, you can open Command Prompt as an administrator and type sfc /scannow. Once the scan is complete, follow any on-screen instructions to repair the identified issues.

Another approach is to utilize the Deployment Image Servicing and Management tool (DISM). This tool helps fix Windows corruption errors that SFC might not handle. Running DISM commands like DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth can assist in repairing the system image.

Remember, addressing corrupt system files promptly is crucial to maintaining the stability and functionality of your system, especially when dealing with error code 0x80073712. By following these troubleshooting steps, you can work towards resolving this issue and ensuring smooth operation of your computer.

2. Windows Update Issues

When encountering error code 0x80073712, Windows Update can become a source of frustration. This error typically indicates that a file needed by Windows Update is damaged or missing. Resolving Windows Update issues is crucial for maintaining system security and performance.

Here are some troubleshooting steps to address Windows Update problems related to error code 0x80073712:

  1. Restart the computer: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve update-related issues by refreshing system processes.
  2. Run Windows Update Troubleshooter: Use the built-in troubleshooter to automatically detect and fix problems with Windows Update.
  3. Check system for malware: Malware can interfere with Windows Update processes. Performing a full system scan can help identify and remove any malicious software.
  4. Clear Windows Update cache: Resetting the Windows Update components can often fix error code 0x80073712. This process involves stopping the related services, deleting temporary update files, and restarting the services.
  5. Manually reset Windows Update components: If clearing the cache doesn’t work, manually resetting the Windows Update components can be a more in-depth solution.

By following these steps, you can take proactive measures to troubleshoot Windows Update problems associated with error code 0x80073712, ensuring that your system stays up to date and secure.

3. Software conflicts

One common issue that can trigger error code 0x80073712 is software conflicts. When different programs or applications on your system interfere with each other, it can lead to errors like this one cropping up.

To troubleshoot software conflicts causing error code 0x80073712, you want to identify any recent software installations or updates. Sometimes, conflicts arise when newly installed software doesn’t interact well with existing programs or system files.

Additionally, running a clean boot can help pinpoint if a specific third-party application is behind the error. By starting up with only essential system programs running, you can see if the issue stems from software conflicts with non-essential applications.

It’s crucial to keep your software updated to prevent compatibility issues that might trigger error code 0x80073712. Updating your operating system, drivers, and applications regularly can help in avoiding such conflicts.

Remember, addressing software conflicts requires a bit of detective work to isolate the problematic programs. By methodically checking recent software changes and using tools like clean boot procedures, you can resolve conflicts and tackle error code 0x80073712 effectively.

Solutions

When troubleshooting error code 0x80073712, it’s crucial to explore effective solutions to resolve this issue promptly. Here are some steps that can help tackle this error:

  • Run Windows Update Troubleshooter: This built-in tool can automatically detect and fix various update-related problems, including error code 0x80073712. Running this troubleshooter might resolve the issue without further intervention.
  • Reset Windows Update Components: Sometimes, resetting the Windows Update components can clear any underlying issues causing error code 0x80073712. This process involves stopping the services, renaming software distribution folders, and restarting the services.
  • Use DISM Tool: Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool can repair the Windows image and help fix corruption that leads to update errors like 0x80073712. Running DISM commands in Command Prompt with administrative privileges can be beneficial.
  • Manually Reset Windows Update Components: For advanced users, resetting Windows Update components manually involves stopping services, renaming folders, and restarting services. This method can be effective in resolving update-related errors.
  • Check System Files: Running the System File Checker tool can help identify and repair corrupted system files that may be linked to error code 0x80073712. This tool scans for integrity violations and attempts to fix them automatically.

Implementing these solutions with caution and following the steps accurately can assist in troubleshooting and fixing error code 0x80073712 on your Windows system.

1. Running Windows Update Troubleshooter

When encountering error code 0x80073712 on my Windows system, one of the initial steps I take is running the Windows Update Troubleshooter. This built-in tool can help identify and resolve issues that might be causing the update error.

The Windows Update Troubleshooter is a handy utility that can automatically detect problems with Windows Update and provide possible solutions. It works by scanning the system for issues that might be hindering the update process, such as corrupted update files or misconfigurations.

To run the Windows Update Troubleshooter, follow these simple steps:

  1. Press the Windows key on your keyboard and type “Troubleshoot.”
  2. Select “Troubleshoot settings” and then click on “Windows Update” under “Get up and running.”
  3. Click on “Run the troubleshooter” and follow the on-screen instructions to allow the tool to scan for and fix Windows Update issues.

After running the troubleshooter, restart your computer and attempt to update your system again to see if the error code 0x80073712 has been resolved. If the problem persists, there are additional steps we can explore to tackle this issue.

2. Performing a System File Check (SFC)

When troubleshooting error code 0x80073712, one of the essential steps is performing a System File Check (SFC). The System File Check tool is a built-in Windows utility that allows you to scan and restore corrupted system files.

To run an SFC scan, follow these steps:

  1. Press Win + X on your keyboard to open the Power User Menu.
  2. Select Command Prompt (Admin) to open an elevated command prompt.
  3. In the command prompt window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  4. Wait for the scan to complete. This process may take some time.

If the System File Check finds any corrupted files, it will attempt to repair them automatically. Once the scan is finished, restart your computer and check if error code 0x80073712 persists.

3. Resetting Windows Update Components

When encountering error code 0x80073712 on your Windows system, one effective troubleshooting step is to reset the Windows Update components. This process can help resolve issues related to updating Windows and ensure a smoother update experience.

To reset the Windows Update components, you can follow these steps:

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
  2. Stop the Windows Update Service by typing the command: net stop wuauserv
  3. Stop the Background Intelligent Transfer Service with the command: net stop bits
  4. Next, rename the SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 folders. You can do this by executing the following commands in sequence:
    • ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
    • ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.old
  5. Restart the services stopped earlier by using these commands:
    • net start wuauserv
    • net start bits

Resetting the Windows Update components can often clear up issues causing error code 0x80073712. Once you’ve completed these steps, try running Windows Update again to see if the problem has been resolved. Remember, keeping your system updated is crucial for security and performance.

4. Running the DISM Tool

When dealing with error code 0x80073712, one effective troubleshooting method is running the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool. This tool is particularly useful for fixing various system-related issues, including the one indicated by error code 0x80073712.

Here is how you can use the DISM tool to address error code 0x80073712:

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator by searching for it in the Start menu, right-clicking on it, and selecting “Run as administrator.”
  2. Once Command Prompt is open, type the following command and press Enter: dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth
  3. Let the DISM tool run and complete the process. Be patient as this may take some time.
  4. After the process is finished, restart your computer.

Running the DISM tool can help repair the Windows system image, which in turn can resolve error code 0x80073712. It’s a useful built-in tool that can potentially fix various system inconsistencies and errors.

Preventive Measures

When dealing with error code 0x80073712, taking preventive measures can save you a lot of time and frustration. Here are some tips based on my experience:

  • Regularly update your operating system to ensure that you have the latest fixes and patches installed.
  • Run system scans using built-in tools like Windows Defender to check for any malware or viruses that might be causing the error.
  • Keep your drivers up to date, especially those related to your hardware components, as outdated drivers can sometimes trigger error codes.
  • Perform regular maintenance tasks such as disk cleanup and disk defragmentation to keep your system running smoothly.

By following these preventive measures, you can reduce the likelihood of encountering error code 0x80073712 or similar issues in the future.

Conclusion

After diving into the troubleshooting methods for error code 0x80073712, it’s clear that addressing this issue requires attention to detail and a systematic approach. This error code can be quite frustrating to deal with, especially when it prevents important updates or installations from completing successfully.

Through our exploration, we have learned that error code 0x80073712 often stems from corrupted system files or issues with the Windows Update components. By following the steps outlined in this article, users can effectively tackle this error and restore the proper functioning of their systems.

Remember, patience is key when resolving technical issues like error code 0x80073712. It may take some time to go through each troubleshooting step, but the end result is well worth the effort. By staying proactive and informed, users can overcome this error and ensure a smoother operating experience with their Windows systems.