How to Address and Resolve the Windows Error Code 0x80096004?
There are several ways to mistake, whenever a Windows error code pops up. One such error code is the code 0x80096004, which normally occurs when installing or updating Windows, working with the Windows Update or the Windows Store. The error often indicates the presence of issues with certificate validation, security policies, or compromised system files.
In this article, we will cover the implications of this error, some of the reasons for its occurrence, and the ways it can be dealt with.
What is Windows Error Code 0x80096004?
The error code 0x80096004 is often encountered in cases where one is using the Windows Update feature or even when installing applications from the Microsoft Store. Such an error, in most cases, points out to problems associated with an invalid or absent certificate, a security issue or in some cases corruption of system files.
Error code 0x80096004 can be faced in some of the common cases such as:
Windows Update: This may be the error code displayed when trying to download or install updates.
Microsoft Store: In case you are trying to install or update an application from the Microsoft Store, this error may occur.
Windows Activation: There are some users who mention having encountered this issue when trying to activate their version of Windows.
Why Does Windows 10 Show Error Code 0x80096004?
Corrupted or Missing Certificates: The error is mostly presented when there is a problem with validation of certificates. Security certificates are essential in windows for files, software, and updates\downtimes in the network. If such certificates are missing or are expired and or damaged, it is plausible to obtain an error of this nature.
Windows Update Components Corruption or Outdated System State: If update components are damaged or an update process did not finish properly this could cause this error as well due to the breakdown of the update process.
Blocking By Windows Firewall or Antivirus Softwares: Some users may experience connection issues with the Microsoft servers due to the presence of aggressive security applications or due to the configuration of the firewall, which can deny all connections to the Microsoft servers, thus creating errors in the course of installation or downloading.
Date and Time Setup: A wrong system date and time may also affect the accuracy of the certificate from the Microsoft servers hence this error is experienced.
Damaged Operating System Components: Errors may also arise when accessing or validating certificates necessary for Windows Update or Microsoft Store where system files are corrupt or missing.
How to Fix Windows Error 0x80096004?
Several steps can be taken to fix the 0x80096004 error. Below are some helpful troubleshooting techniques:
1. Check Your Date and Time Settings
Inappropriate date or time settings can hinder Windows from properly validating certificates. It is advisable to check for and set your system date, time, and time zone settings to correct values.
Right-click on the time display on the taskbar then select Adjust date/time.
Toggle on Set time automatically and Set time zone automatically.
If the problem continues, adjust the time and date yourself manually.
2. Execute the Windows Update Troubleshooter
Windows operating system incorporates a troubleshooting tool that resorts to resolve the common Windows Update problems.
Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
Click on Windows Update and then click Run the troubleshooter option.
Proceed as directed on the screen enabling the Windows system to troubleshoot the problem and resolve it.
3. Delete the Windows Update Cache
Damaged files during update download can lead to defect errors among them error code 0x80096004. This issue is common and wiping the Windows update cache will assist in solving this particular problem.
Open the Command Prompt as Administrator (in the Start menu type that cmd, right-click on it then click Run as admin).
Enter a few commands in sequence hitting Enter after each instruction:
net stop wuauserv
net stop bits
Go to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution and erase everything in the directory including all files and folders.
After that, go back to the command prompt and restart the update services by inputting the command:
net start wuauserv
net start bits
Update the Windows once more.
4. Inspect How Well Your Security Software Is Working
Picture this: You have this nifty Windows update and super cool Microsoft store, but some files or even the connection are blocked by your antivirus/ firewall security software. Turn off your antiviruses or firewalls and see if the problem still occurs.
Here is a crucial note: Always switch on your antivirus and firewall after the experiment.
5. Run A System File Check (Sfc)
As a result of damaged system files in a windows operating system, one may be unable to perform updates or experience other issues. When this happens, you can run the System File Checker (SFC) utility to restore the missing or corrupted windows operating system files.
Trying running the command prompt as the Administrator.
Next, type the command provided below and press Enter.
sfc /scannow
The scan will take a few minutes to finish. No matter the end results of any issues found, SFC will try to resolve them.
6 Verify the Connection to the Internet Now
Problems with connectivity, including but not limited to low bandwidth or fluctuating connection might cut off the download or the installation of the update. Make sure that your internet connection can withstand the downloading of either updates or applications. If the problem persists, you can try changing your Wi-Fi connection to an Ethernet one.
7 Repair Install or In-place Upgrade Windows
Try the subsequent suggestions and if they fail, you could have to do a repair install or Windows 10 in-place upgrade. This involves a clean installation of Windows that does not affect your files and other settings integrated into the operating system.
Go to the Microsoft site and download the Media Creation Tool for Windows 10/11.
Open the application and click on the Upgrade this PC now button.
Perform the steps given so as to carry out the process of Windows reinstallation.
Still, you may need to seek farther help from our Microsoft chat support team, If none of these way resolve the issue windows 10 update Error Code 0x80096004. Overall, it’s important to address this Windows Update Error Code 0x80096004 as soon as possible to help farther issues with the functioning of your Windows operating system. visit for more information
