What Is Error Code 0x80073701 and How Can You Fix It?

Understanding Windows Update Error Code 0x80073701

Since the release of Windows 10/11 updates, Microsoft has fixed various problems, but some are still present. Error code 0x80073701 generally occurs when users install Windows 10 version 1607 and then install update KB3206632 or KB3213986 on x64-based systems. Missing or damaged system files lead to this type of error. This can be caused by incomplete installation or incomplete updates, failed uninstallation, and incorrect removal of applications or hardware. Error 0x80073701 means some essential system files are missing, and that’s the reason for failing updates.

Common Issues Associated With This Error:

Slow performance of PC
System restarts unexpectedly
Sudden shutdowns
Loss of important data
Blue Screen of Death
General Windows Update failures

According to Microsoft, the issue doesn’t cause big system damage – like registry corruption, malware infection, or hardware failure, but an official fix is yet to be announced.

How to Fix Error 0x80073701

If you’re dealing with error 0x80073701, try these steps to resolve the issue:

1. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

The built-in troubleshooter can identify and fix common update-related issues:

Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
Select Additional troubleshooters and click on Windows Update.
Complete it by following on-screen instructions.

Once completed, restart your computer and try updating again.

2. Reset Windows Update Components

Resetting the update components can help resolve persistent issues:

Open Command Prompt as an administrator. Enter these commands one at a time, pressing Enter after each:

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

Restart your computer and attempt the update again.

3. Adjust Date and Time Settings

Incorrect date and time settings can cause problems. Here’s how to fix them:

Right-click the Windows key and choose Control Panel.
Select Clock, Language, and Region.
Click Change settings.
Check Synchronize with an Internet time server and click Update now.
Press OK, close the windows, and restart your computer.

4. Download and Install Update KB3081440

Visit Microsoft’s official website to download update KB3081440. Make sure to select the correct version for your operating system, whether 32-bit or 64-bit. This update removes leftover issues automatically.

5. Use the System Update Readiness Tool

Follow these steps to resolve errors with this tool:

Run the .exe file of the tool.
Use the System File Checker by opening Command Prompt and entering sfc /scannow.
Check installed language packs and uninstall any unnecessary ones.
Review the CBS logs and uninstall patches with missing assemblies. Restart your system.
Reinstall Service Pack 1.

These steps should help resolve related errors efficiently.

6. Use a Reliable PC Repair Tool

Sometimes, the update error might be due to a deeper problem with the system itself. This can be located and fixed through an extremely trusted tool known as Outbyte PC Repair. It will scan your system, clean up files that are not needed, and optimize your PC for more efficient work, preventing update errors in the future.

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FAQs

1. What is the 0x80073701 error?

This is an error condition where one or more of the system files required to install this update are corrupt or missing.

2. Can 0x80073701 be fixed without performing any form of reset on my PC?

You can, of course, do that using tools like the Windows Update Troubleshooter, DISM, SFC to fix the issue without having to reset your system

3. I tried all manual updates; it didn’t work.

Make sure you downloaded the right update version that is proper for your system. If that doesn’t help, then resetting the Windows Update component might be a good idea.

4. Does error 0x80073701 decrease performance?

It doesn’t directly affect performance, but missing updates may leave your system without protection against vulnerabilities or new features that might influence usability.

5. Is it safe to use Outbyte PC Repair?

Yes, Outbyte PC Repair is very reliable for diagnosing and fixing system-level issues that may be the cause of the update error.