Quick Summary
Error code 0x800F081F on Windows typically indicates that the system is unable to locate the required source files for a requested operation, such as installing updates or features. This absence of source files prevents the completion of the intended task.
Common Causes
- Missing Source Files: The required installation or update files are either corrupted, deleted, or not present in the specified location (e.g., Windows Update cache, installation media).
- Incorrect Windows Update Configuration: The Windows Update service might be misconfigured, pointing to an incorrect source for update files or failing to properly download them.
- Corrupted Component Store: The Component Store (WinSxS folder), which contains the files needed for installing updates and features, might be damaged or inconsistent.
- Interference from Third-Party Software: Antivirus software or other security programs may be blocking access to necessary files or directories during the installation process.
Step-by-Step Fixes
Method 1: Run the System File Checker (SFC) Show Steps ↓
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as administrator. Search for "cmd", right-click, and select "Run as administrator".
Step 2: Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
Step 3: Wait for the scan to complete. It may take some time.
Step 4: If SFC finds and repairs errors, restart your computer.
Method 2: Use DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) Tool Show Steps ↓
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as administrator (as described above).
Step 2: Run the following command: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Step 3: Allow the DISM process to complete. Ensure your computer is connected to the internet.
Step 4: Restart your computer after DISM finishes.
Step 5: If the above command fails, try using a Windows installation source: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth /source:WIM:X:\sources\install.wim:1 /limitAccess. Replace 'X:' with the drive letter of your Windows installation media (USB or DVD). You can also use an ISO file; mount it as a drive.
Method 3: Check Windows Update Service Show Steps ↓
Step 1: Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
Step 2: Locate the "Windows Update" service.
Step 3: Ensure the "Startup type" is set to "Automatic" or "Automatic (Delayed Start)".
Step 4: If the service is not running, right-click on it and select "Start".
Step 5: If problems persist, right-click on the service, select "Properties", go to the "Recovery" tab, and configure recovery options (e.g., "Restart the Service") for the first and second failures.
Method 4: Reset Windows Update Components Show Steps ↓
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as administrator.
Step 2: Stop the Windows Update service: net stop wuauserv
Step 3: Stop the Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS): net stop bits
Step 4: Stop the Cryptographic service: net stop cryptsvc
Step 5: Rename the SoftwareDistribution folder: ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
Step 6: Rename the Catroot2 folder: ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old
Step 7: Start the Cryptographic service: net start cryptsvc
Step 8: Start the Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS): net start bits
Step 9: Start the Windows Update service: net start wuauserv
Step 10: Try running Windows Update again.
Method 5: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter Show Steps ↓
Step 1: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
Step 2: Click "Windows Update" and then "Run the troubleshooter".
Step 3: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.