How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80070306

Windows Update is one of the most essential components of the Windows operating system, ensuring your PC receives the latest features, security patches, and bug fixes. However, sometimes these updates come with their own set of errors, one of which is the puzzling Windows Update Error 0x80070306. If you’ve stumbled across this error during an update attempt, don’t worry—there are practical and effective ways to fix it.

TL;DR

Error 0x80070306 usually occurs when system files are corrupted, update components are damaged, or antivirus software interferes with the update process. To resolve this issue, try disabling your antivirus, running Windows troubleshooters, repairing corrupted system files, or resetting update components. Follow the step-by-step methods below to resolve the error and get your system up to date.

What Is Windows Update Error 0x80070306?

The error code 0x80070306 translates to “The file cannot be opened because it is in the process of being deleted,” indicating that a system or update file is inaccessible during the update process. This can happen due to:

  • Corrupted or missing Windows system files
  • Issues with existing Windows update components
  • Third-party antivirus interference
  • Disk corruption or read/write errors

The good news is that this problem can be resolved by following a few targeted steps. Let’s dive into some proven solutions.

1. Restart Your Computer and Try Again

This may seem too simple, but many system-level temporary issues—including locked or in-use files—can be resolved with a simple reboot. Restart your PC and attempt to install the updates again. If the error persists, proceed to the next fix.

2. Disable Antivirus and Security Software

Some third-party antivirus programs interfere with the Windows Update process, seeing it as a threat or locking files that updates need to access. Temporarily disabling your antivirus software can help determine if that’s the cause of the problem.

Note: Make sure to re-enable your antivirus once the update is successful to keep your PC protected.

3. Use the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Windows comes with a built-in troubleshooter designed to detect and fix common update issues. Here’s how to use it:

  1. Click on Start and go to Settings.
  2. Navigate to System > Troubleshoot > Other Troubleshooters.
  3. Scroll down and click Run next to Windows Update.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions.

If the troubleshooter finds any issues, it will attempt to resolve them automatically or guide you to the proper solution.

[ai-img]windows update, troubleshooting, PC repair[/ai-img]

4. Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Corrupted or missing system files often cause update errors. Windows offers built-in tools to repair system files:

Run the SFC Scan:

  1. Open the Start Menu and type cmd.
  2. Right-click on Command Prompt and choose Run as Administrator.
  3. Type the following command and press Enter:
    sfc /scannow

Let the scan complete. If issues are found, the tool will automatically repair them.

Run the DISM Tool:

  1. In the same Command Prompt window, type the following commands one at a time: 
    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

These commands check and restore the integrity of your Windows image, which plays a vital role in the update process.

5. Reset Windows Update Components

If none of the above methods work, manually resetting the Windows Update components can often resolve stubborn errors like 0x80070306.

Here’s how to reset them:

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
  2. Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each: 
    net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptsvc
net stop bits
net stop msiserver
  3. Now, rename the SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 folders: 
    ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old
  4. Finally, restart the services: 
    net start wuauserv
net start cryptsvc
net start bits
net start msiserver

This process refreshes the Windows Update environment by erasing any cached files that might have been corrupted or incomplete.

[ai-img]command prompt, update error fix, system restore[/ai-img]

6. Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot starts your Windows system with the minimum set of drivers and startup programs. It’s a great way to identify if a background application is interfering with updates.

How to Perform a Clean Boot:

  1. Type msconfig in the Start Menu and press Enter.
  2. Go to the Services tab.
  3. Check the box for Hide all Microsoft services and click Disable All.
  4. Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
  5. Disable all startup items, close Task Manager, and click OK.
  6. Restart your computer and try updating again.

If the update works during a clean boot, you’ll need to identify which app or service is causing the conflict through a process of elimination.

7. Use the Windows Media Creation Tool (Advanced)

If all else fails, the ultimate fix is to use the Windows Media Creation Tool to perform an in-place upgrade. This keeps your files and apps but replaces every system file with a fresh copy.

Steps:

  1. Download the tool from the official Microsoft website.
  2. Launch the tool and choose Upgrade this PC now.
  3. Follow all prompts to complete the process.

This method is time-consuming, but it’s highly effective in resolving persistent update errors without wiping your data.

Preventing Future Update Errors

After you’ve resolved the issue, consider these good practices to avoid future update hiccups:

  • Keep your antivirus and other software up to date.
  • Regularly run system scans with SFC and DISM.
  • Ensure a stable internet connection during updates.
  • Don’t interrupt updates once they’ve started.

Having regular backups of your data before any major update is also strongly recommended.

Wrapping Up

While the Windows Update Error 0x80070306 can seem daunting at first, it’s generally solvable with a few systematic steps. Whether it’s using the update troubleshooter, repairing system files, or resetting update components, one of these techniques is almost guaranteed to fix the issue.

Don’t let update errors slow you down—stay proactive with system maintenance and stay informed for a smoother Windows experience.