Emily Bennett
How to Fix Windows 11 Update KB5053656 Not Installing with Error Code 0x80070003
Are you experiencing issues while installing Windows Update KB5053656 on your Windows 11 computer? The error code 0x80070003 can be frustrating, but the good news is that there are several steps you can take to resolve this issue. This guide will walk you through a detailed, step-by-step process to help you troubleshoot and fix the problem effectively. By following these instructions, you will be able to successfully install the update and ensure your system runs smoothly.
Before you begin, make sure your system is connected to the internet, and you have administrative privileges to perform the required changes. You will also need to access Windows Settings and Services, so familiarize yourself with navigating these areas. Additionally, keep your Windows 11 Installation Assistant and Microsoft Update Catalog links handy, as you’ll need them during the process.
Step 1: Start the App Readiness Service
The first step is to ensure that the App Readiness Service is running, as this service helps prepare and install applications during updates. To start the service:
- Open the Windows search box and type services.
- Click on Services from the search results.
- In the Services window, locate App Readiness.
- Double-click on App Readiness and set the Startup type to Automatic.
- Click Apply and then Start if highlighted. Finally, click OK.
Step 2: Move the $WinREAgent Folder
If the App Readiness Service is running but the update still fails, try moving the $WinREAgent folder:
- Open File Explorer and navigate to This PC > C:.
- Enable viewing of hidden items by clicking on the View tab and checking Hidden items.
- Locate the $WinREAgent folder, copy it, and paste it to your desktop as a backup.
- After backing it up, delete the original $WinREAgent folder from its location.
- Now, go back to Windows Settings and try to update your system.
Step 3: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter
If the update is still unsuccessful, the next step is to use the Windows Update Troubleshooter:
- Open Windows Settings and navigate to System.
- Scroll down and click on Troubleshoot, then select Other troubleshooters.
- Find Windows Update and click on Run.
- Allow the troubleshooter to complete its process and then restart your computer.
Step 4: Restart Windows Update Services
Another critical step is to restart the Windows Update and Background Intelligent Transfer services:
- Open the Services window as described in Step 1.
- Locate Windows Update, double-click it, set it to Automatic, and click Start.
- Repeat the process for the Background Intelligent Transfer Service.
- Right-click on each service and select Restart.
Step 5: Use the Windows 11 Installation Assistant
If the previous steps do not resolve the issue, you can download and use the Windows 11 Installation Assistant:
Visit the official Microsoft website to download the Installation Assistant: Windows 11 Installation Assistant.
- Run the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.
- If prompted, accept any updates that may be available.
Step 6: Access the Microsoft Update Catalog
If the installation assistant does not work, manually search for the update in the Microsoft Update Catalog:
Go to the Microsoft Update Catalog: Microsoft Update Catalog.
- Search for the update KB5053656.
- Download the appropriate version for your system (check if it’s x64 or ARM).
- Run the downloaded file to install the update manually.
Step 7: Reset Windows Update Components
If none of the above solutions have worked, resetting the Windows Update components can help. Follow these steps carefully:
- Open Notepad and copy the following commands:
- Save the file as Wufix.bat on your desktop.
- Right-click on the Wufix.bat file and select Run as administrator.
- Follow the prompts and allow the process to complete, then restart your computer.
SC config trustedinstaller start=auto
net stop bits
net stop wuauserv
net stop msiserver
net stop cryptsvc
net stop appidsvc
Ren %Systemroot%\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
Ren %Systemroot%\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old
regsvr32.exe /s atl.dll
regsvr32.exe /s urlmon.dll
regsvr32.exe /s mshtml.dll
netsh winsock reset
netsh winsock reset proxy
rundll32.exe pnpclean.dll,RunDLL_PnpClean /DRIVERS /MAXCLEAN
dism /Online /Cleanup-image /ScanHealth
dism /Online /Cleanup-image /CheckHealth
dism /Online /Cleanup-image /RestoreHealth
dism /Online /Cleanup-image /StartComponentCleanup
sfc /ScanNow
net start bits
net start wuauserv
net start msiserver
net start cryptsvc
net start appidsvcStep 8: Utilize the Media Creation Tool
If the issue persists, you can employ the Media Creation Tool as a final step to update your system:
Download the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft: Media Creation Tool.
- Run the tool and accept the license terms.
- Select Create installation media for another PC and click Next.
- Choose your language, edition, and architecture, then click Next.
- Select ISO file and save it to your desktop.
- Once the download is complete, run the setup file and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
Make sure your system has enough storage space to accommodate the update. Additionally, disabling third-party antivirus software temporarily can also help prevent conflicts during the installation process. If you encounter issues with specific steps, double-check that you have administrative rights and that your system is fully updated before proceeding.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the installation issue with Windows Update KB5053656 and eliminate the error code 0x80070003. Regularly updating your system is crucial for maintaining security and performance, so ensure you check for updates frequently. If you need further assistance, consider exploring more guides related to Windows 11 troubleshooting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if the update still fails after following all steps?
If the update continues to fail, consider performing a system restore to revert to a previous state or reach out to Microsoft Support for additional help.
How can I check my Windows version?
You can check your Windows version by going to Settings > System > About and looking for the version information under Windows specifications.
Is it safe to delete the SoftwareDistribution folder?
Yes, it is safe to delete the contents of the SoftwareDistribution folder as it stores temporary update files. Windows will recreate the folder automatically upon the next update check.