Here are some of the most common reasons this error might occur:

Corrupted Windows Update Files: If the update files are corrupted or incomplete, the update process might fail, triggering the error.
Network Connectivity Issues: Problems with your internet connection or network settings can interfere with your ability to download updates.
Misconfigured Proxy Settings: If your system is configured to use a proxy server, incorrect proxy settings may cause issues with connecting to the update server.
Windows Update Service Conflicts: The Windows Update service might be interrupted by a third-party application or a system service that is malfunctioning.
Third-Party Security Software: Security software installed from outside the network which could include Antivirus or firewall software at times may interfere with the processes of Windows Update by categorizing it as a threat.

Outdated System Files: Installation of updates might be impaired if some system files are outdated or not suitable for the operating system.

Fixing Error Code 0x80244018

Having looked at the possible causes of this error, it is necessary to address the solutions to the error. You may attempt these solutions one by one until the issue gets resolved.

1. Use the Windows Update Troubleshooter

There is a troubleshooter in Windows that can be used to identify and resolve most windows update issues.

Steps:

• Open the Settings app (press Windows + I)
• Look for Update & Security
• Click on the Troubleshoot option on the left side.
• Select Additional troubleshooters.
• Click Windows Update and hit the Run the troubleshooter button.
• Obey the guide and allow the tool to find and fix the problems.

It can repair issues like changes to the Windows Update service and corrupted or missing files.

2. Delete the Cached Files for Windows Update

In some cases, corrupt cached files of Windows Update can cause the failure of the update. This can be resolved by clearing the cache.

Steps:

• Open Command Prompt as an administrator, To do this, search for cmd in the Start menu, right click on Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
• For the Command Prompt open window, type the succeeding commands and hit Enter key after each.
• net stop wuauserv
• net stop bits
• Go to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution.

In that folder, delete all the contents (you can highlight all and press Delete).
Then restart the services by entering the following commands in Command Prompt:

• net start wuauserv
• net start bits

And then after that, proceed to check for updates again

3. Examine and Change Your Proxy Server Settings

In case the internet connection is being established through a proxy server, the subsequent update through Windows may be affected.

Steps:

• Launch the Settings app and select Network and Internet.
• In the left panel, select Proxy.
• If a proxy is enabled, then disable it for a while to check if the problem still exists.

Otherwise, if it is the case of sharp adjustment, then the proxy settings should be adjusted corrrectly.
In all other cases, if proxy is not present and the conflict remains, then the network configuration should be reset.

4. Shut-down Protection Software: Antivirus Program or Firewall

There are instances when users facing Windows recent update error codes have antivirus or firewall programs that hinder specific functions. Try to switch off your security system for the time being and see whether the error is still the same.

Steps:

• Go to your antivirus program and turn off the real-time security feature.
• If a third – party firewall is used, disable it as well.
• After disabling, try to start the Windows Update process again.

Serious Warning: Do not forget to switch on your antivirus program and the firewall again after the update is done.

7. Execute the Update Version Manually

If the problem persists, you can also download the update from the Microsoft Update Catalog by yourself. This becomes necessary when the update does not succeed in installing via Windows Update.

Open Microsoft Update Catalog.
Locate the necessary update (make use of KB number, for instance, KB5003173).
Choose the appropriate version of Windows (32-bit, 64-bit, and so on).

Finally, after the Update is installed, open the installer to install the Update manually.