Fix 0x8024001e: Windows Update Error 0x8024001e (Windows)

The Windows Update error code 0x8024001e typically indicates a problem during the update process, often related to a failure in the update service or corrupted update files. This can prevent your system from downloading and installing the latest Windows updates, leaving your system vulnerable to security threats.

🧐 Causes

Several factors can lead to the 0x8024001e error:

• Corrupted Windows Update components (e.g., temporary files, cache).
• Interference from third-party antivirus or firewall software.
• Network connectivity issues or restrictions.
• Corrupted system files that are required for the update process.
• Incorrect date and time settings on your computer.

🔧 Fixes

Here are several methods to resolve the Windows Update error 0x8024001e:

Method 1: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Windows has a built-in troubleshooter that can automatically detect and fix common update issues.

1. Press Windows Key + I to open Settings.
2. Go to Update & Security (or System > Troubleshoot in Windows 11).
3. Click on Troubleshoot in the left-hand pane.
4. Click on Additional troubleshooters.
5. Select Windows Update and then click Run the troubleshooter.
6. Follow the on-screen prompts.

Method 2: Reset Windows Update Components

Corrupted update components are a frequent cause. Resetting them can often resolve the issue.

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator. To do this, search for “cmd” in the Start menu, right-click on Command Prompt, and select “Run as administrator”.
2. Stop the Windows Update services by typing the following commands and pressing Enter after each one:
• net stop wuauserv
• net stop cryptSvc
• net stop bits
• net stop msiserver
3. Rename the SoftwareDistribution and catroot2 folders. Type the following commands and press Enter after each one:
• ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
• ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old
4. Restart the Windows Update services by typing the following commands and pressing Enter after each one:
• net start wuauserv
• net start cryptSvc
• net start bits
• net start msiserver
5. Close the Command Prompt and try running Windows Update again.

Method 3: Check Date and Time Settings

Incorrect date and time settings can interfere with the update process.

1. Right-click on the clock in the taskbar and select Adjust date/time.
2. Ensure that Set time automatically and Set time zone automatically are turned on. If they are, toggle them off and then back on again.
3. Click on Sync now under “Synchronize your clock”.

Method 4: Temporarily Disable Antivirus/Firewall

Sometimes, aggressive security software can block Windows Update. Temporarily disabling it can help diagnose if this is the cause.

1. Locate your antivirus or firewall software’s icon in the system tray (near the clock).
2. Right-click on the icon and look for an option to disable real-time protection or the firewall.
3. Once disabled, try running Windows Update.
4. Important: Remember to re-enable your antivirus/firewall immediately after testing.

Method 5: Use System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Corrupted system files can also cause this error. SFC and DISM can repair them.

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Run the System File Checker tool:
• sfc /scannow
3. This process can take some time. Once complete, run the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool:
• DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
4. After both scans complete, restart your computer and try Windows Update again.