What Is Error Code 0x800f0900?

Error code 0x800f0900 most commonly occurs when a problem is encountered while performing a Windows Update. More specifically, this error code falls under the category of feature update installation (Example: upgrades to the newer version of the OS Windows 10) or for cumulative update installation.

This error may come with notification like:

‘Resolved issues in installing some updates. But we will attempt again later.’
‘Error code 0x800f0900: the update was not possible. ‘

Such issues can limit the system’s capability of downloading crucial security updates, patches and new features. This code error must be solved as fast as possible to avoid more serious problems.
You might get Windows Update error code 0x800f0900 due to a number of factors as listed below.

Corrupted System Files: Whenever there is a missing or corrupt files which are significant in executing a Windows Operating System Update.

Existing or Canceled Update: A state that prevents new updates from being installed may be left after an unwelcome or uncompleted update attempt.

Problems with Windows Update Service: This error may also occur when there are issues with the operation of the Windows Update service itself (for example, if Windows Update components are not properly coordinated).

Conflicting Third Party Applications: Some anti-viruses or third-party tools tend to work against the Windows Update service and can prevent its operation by stopping updates or causing other problems.

Inadequate Space Available on Hard Disk: Updates particularly feature updates take a lot of free space on the Hard Disk. When the system drive is nearly full, it may be impossible to install any updates.

Network or Server Problems: Occasionally, the fault may lie with Microsoft, for instance, when updating servers are down or when the system is unable to communicate effectively with them.

Error code 0x800f0900 how to solve it?

Once we have looked at the probable causes of the error, it is now time to look at ways of fixing it.

1. Perform Windows Update Troubleshooter

The option to perform a simple in-built troubleshooter is offered by Windows whereby it diagnosis problems related with updates and resolves the issues if possible. In order to use the troubleshooter – try these steps:

• Open settings by pressing Windows + I.
• Then go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
• Now click on Additional troubleshooters.
• Click on Windows Update and then click Run the troubleshooter.

Complete the steps given and let the troubleshooter fix the problems it may find.

2. Delete the Data Downloaded for Windows Updates

Some of the reasons why new updates won’t install could be attributed to uninstalled corrupted update files from the Windows Update cache. This can be addressed by removing this specific cache. Here’s how to go about it:

Press Windows + R to access the Run dialog box, type in services.msc and hit Enter.
Scroll down to locate the Windows Update service, right-click and then click on Stop.
Open the File Explorer and go to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download.
Remove all files inside the Download folder.
Return to Services (the window you opened a while back) and right click on Windows Update. This time click on Start in order to stop the service.
After clearing the cache, check once more if the error has been cleared by checking for updates.

3. Enter the SFC and DISM Commands

Corrupt operating system files sometimes could likely be the reason for some updates not being successful. The System File Checker (SFC) and the Deployment Imaging Service, and Management Tool (DISM) can be run to help restore the system files back to their normal condition:

Hold Windows key and Press X then Select Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows PowerShell (Admin).

To run the SFC command, type the command shown below and press Enter

sfc /scannow
This will perform a scan of system files to check for any damage and repair problems with update functionality caused by damaged system files.

This utility will scan for corrupt system files and also fix them in order to eliminate any update problems.

Once SFC has finished running, run the following command to fix the Windows image:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Wait for the process to be completed. It may take a couple of minutes. After it has finished, reboot your PC and check for updates once more.

4. Resetting Windows Update Components on Your Own

In some cases it may help to reset the components of Windows Update manually. The following is the instruction:

Open Command Prompt as administrator (right click commandprompt and select Run as administrator).

Type the following commands one at a time and press Enter for each:

• net stop wuauserv
• net stop bits
• ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
• ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.old
• net start wuauserv
• net start bits

These commands stop the Windows Update service, rename the two folders which stores update data; Software Distribution and Catroot2, and then start the update services again.

Once the commands are executed, attempt the Windows Update process once again.

5. Check Disk Space

Make sure that there is sufficient free space in the system drive (usually C:) to accommodate the update. Feature updates may need several gigabytes of free space. In case you are low on space, you may consider removal of unnecessary files, removal of unused applications or the use of Disk Cleanup utility.

Use Disk Cleanup:

Type Disk Cleanup in the Start menu search bar and run the application.
Pick your system drive (usually C: ) and hit OK.
Select the types of files you wish to remove like temporary files, system files, previous Windows version and so on.
Press OK and press Yes to remove the files.