This usually happens because some update files are damaged or missing, often due to past failed updates or system issues. Now that you know details about this error, let’s move to the solutions.
1. Run SFC and DISM
Corrupted system or Windows update files can cause update failures. Running the System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) utilities can help repair and restore corrupted files. SFC scans for and replaces corrupted system files, while DISM can fix system issues and add updates or drivers.
2. Install the Update Manually
If you want a quick workaround to avoid the error, you can manually download and install the update that’s causing the 0x800f0900 error. You’ll use the public Microsoft Update Catalog for this. As long as the basic Windows Update service is working, the steps below should help (many users have fixed the issue this way).
3. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter
Since this issue mainly affects Windows 10, your next step should be to let the built-in troubleshooter try to solve it for you. The Windows 10 Update Troubleshooter is much more effective than its older versions (Windows 7 and 8.1). This tool automatically checks for issues with Windows Update and tries to fix them. Many users have reported that the troubleshooter resolved the 0x800f0900 error by resetting faulty components.
4. Reset Windows Update (WU)
If the Windows Update Troubleshooter didn’t solve the issue, you may be dealing with stubborn corruption in the Windows Update system. In this situation, you should reset all Windows Update components. There are two ways to reset Windows Update:
Using the Windows Update Reset Agent (an automated tool)Manually resetting Windows Update via Command Prompt
You can choose whichever method you are more comfortable with.
4.1 Using the Automated WU Reset Agent
4.2. Reset Windows Update Manually (via Command Prompt)
If the error persists, proceed to the next solution below.
5. Perform a Repair Install
If none of the above methods have solved your problem, it’s likely you’re dealing with a stubborn system corruption that requires a more advanced fix. At this stage, your best option (other than a full clean install) is a repair install (in-place upgrade). A repair install will refresh all Windows system files, including anything related to booting, but lets you keep your personal files, applications, games, documents, photos, and more. This means you don’t have to worry about losing your data while still giving your Windows system a fresh start.
