Lorene Melone
How to Fix Windows 11 Update Error Code 0x80071a91
Are you encountering the frustrating error code 0x80071a91 while trying to update Windows 11? This guide walks you through several proven solutions to resolve this issue efficiently. By following each step carefully, you will learn how to reset your update settings, utilize system tools, and make necessary service changes, helping to ensure a smooth update process for your Windows 11 operating system.
Step 1: Start the App Readiness Service
The first step to troubleshoot this update error is to start the App Readiness service, which is responsible for preparing apps for use after an update. To do this, press Win + R to open the Run dialog, type services.msc and hit Enter. In the Services window, locate App Readiness, right-click it, and select Start if it’s not already running. This will ensure your apps are ready for updates or installations.
Step 2: Move the $WinREAgent Folder
Next, you need to move the ‘$WinREAgent’ folder to another location on your system. This directory can sometimes cause conflicts during updates, so transferring it might eliminate the error. Navigate to the C:\$Windows.~BT\ directory and move this folder to a different location. If you cannot see it, enable hidden files in File Explorer settings.
Step 3: Run the Update Troubleshooter
Windows includes a built-in troubleshooter specifically for update issues. To access it, go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters, and select Windows Update. Click on Run the troubleshooter and follow the prompts to allow Windows to diagnose and potentially fix the problem automatically.
Step 4: Restart Windows Update Services
Restarting essential services related to Windows Update can resolve many issues. Open the Command Prompt as an administrator, type the following commands one at a time, and press Enter after each:
net stop bits
net stop wuauserv
net stop msiserver
net stop cryptsvc
net stop appidsvc
After stopping these services, restart them using:
net start bits
net start wuauserv
net start msiserver
net start cryptsvc
net start appidsvc
This process often clears up problems affecting updates.
Step 5: Use the Windows 11 Installation Assistant
If the previous steps do not work, consider using the Windows 11 Installation Assistant. This tool allows you to manually initiate the update process, which can bypass traditional methods that may be failing. Download it from the Microsoft official site and follow on-screen instructions for installation.
Step 6: Access the Microsoft Update Catalog
If you need specific updates, you can search for them in the Microsoft Update Catalog. Enter the specific update code you need, download the update file, and install it manually. This method is particularly useful when dealing with isolated failures.
Step 7: Reset Windows Update Components
When all else fails, resetting Windows Update components can often provide a fresh slate for updates. Open Command Prompt as an administrator and run the following commands to stop services and rename critical folders:
SC config trustedinstaller start=autonet stop bitsnet stop wuauservnet stop msiservernet stop cryptsvcnet stop appidsvcRen %Systemroot%\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.oldRen %Systemroot%\System32\catroot2 catroot2.oldregsvr32.exe /s atl.dllregsvr32.exe /s urlmon.dllregsvr32.exe /s mshtml.dllnetsh winsock resetnetsh winsock reset proxyrundll32.exe pnpclean.dll,RunDLL_PnpClean /DRIVERS /MAXCLEANdism /Online /Cleanup-image /ScanHealthdism /Online /Cleanup-image /CheckHealthdism /Online /Cleanup-image /RestoreHealthdism /Online /Cleanup-image /StartComponentCleanupSfc /ScanNow
After running these commands, save them as a batch file named Wufix.bat. Right-click on the file and select Run as administrator to execute it. Following this, restart your PC to finalize the updates.
Optional Step: Use the Media Creation Tool
Another option for ensuring your system is up to date is to utilize the Media Creation Tool, available through Microsoft’s official site at Media Creation Tool. This tool helps in downloading the latest Windows 11 version and can facilitate a clean installation if necessary.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
While the steps outlined above should generally resolve the 0x80071a91 error, you may encounter additional challenges. Always ensure your internet connection is stable during updates, as disruptions can lead to incomplete installations. Furthermore, keeping your system’s drivers updated can prevent compatibility issues. Remember that regular updates not only add new features but also patch security vulnerabilities in Windows.
Conclusion
By following the provided steps, you should be able to resolve the Windows 11 update error code 0x80071a91 effectively. Whether you start with basic services or dive into more advanced processes like resetting update components, these methods can restore your updating capabilities. For further assistance, consider exploring other guides related to Windows troubleshooting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes the error code 0x80071a91?
This error typically arises from issues such as corrupted update files, problems with related services, or conflicts with system components that hinder the update process.
Can I use Windows 11 without resolving this error?
While you can use Windows 11 without immediate updates, neglecting updates can leave your system vulnerable to security risks and bugs that could affect performance and functionality.
Is there an alternative method to fix update errors?
Yes, you can also perform a system restore to a previous point when your system was functioning well, or reinstall Windows 11 as a last resort. Always back up your data before proceeding with significant changes.