Windows Update Error Code 0x80240020

Windows Update is an essential part of keeping your computer functioning and secure. However, it may sometimes fail to install updates, resulting in error codes such as 0x80240020. This error number is often shown when there is an issue with the update file or the Windows Update service. Ignoring these errors might lead to security flaws and unreliable system performance.

Follow the instructions in this article to resolve Windows Update error 0x80240020 and get your PC's latest fixes and features. We'll discuss several solutions to help you fix this issue and roll out Windows updates correctly.

What Is Windows Error Code 0x80240020

When trying to update or install Windows Defender or other Windows updates, you may get the Windows problem Code 0x80240020. This is a typical problem that happens. There was an issue with the update file, and hence the process of updating could not be completed entirely. This error might have been caused by several things, including network connection problems, out-of-date versions of Windows Defender or other system components, damaged update files, or infections caused by malware.

Reasons that lead to the Windows Error Code 0x80240020:

• This might occur if your internet connection is down or the Windows Update server is unavailable.
• You may receive this error when updating Windows Defender or other outdated system components.
• The Windows update process may fail if the update files are damaged or corrupted, resulting in error code 0x80240020.
• Malware may disrupt Windows Defender updates and prevent them from properly installing.
• Various update failures, including error code 0x80240020, may be caused by issues with the Windows Update service or its components.
• Other security software you installed may clash with Windows Defender and create update problems.

How to Fix Windows Defender Error Code 0x80240020

Now that you know what the Windows Defender Error Code 0x80240020 is and the reasons for this error on Windows, it's time to fix it. Thankfully, there are multiple solutions to help you with. In this section, we have provided only solutions we tried and tested. Let's begin!

Fix 1. Verify BITS Service Is Turned On

BITS (Background Intelligent Transfer Service) is a system component that controls background file transfers, including Windows updates. Verifying that BITS is switched on may aid in resolving Windows Error Code 0x80240020 by confirming that the service is operational and capable of transferring data without error.

If BITS is not enabled or functioning correctly, the Windows Update procedure may fail, resulting in this error. By verifying and activating the BITS service, you can guarantee that updates are appropriately downloaded and installed, fixing the problem. Here's how to ensure BITS is enabled:

Step 1. To access "Services", click "Search", then enter "Services. msc".

Step 2. Click the icon twice to launch "Background Intelligent Transfer Service".

Step 3. Verify that the service's status is "Started" in the Service Status menu.

Step 4. If the status reads "Stopped," choose "Start" and then "OK."

Step 5. Re-attempt updating your system.

Fix 2. Use Sign-in Info to Complete the Update

Using sign-in information to finish the Update may assist in resolving Windows Error Code 0x80240020 by enabling Windows to authenticate the user account and complete the update procedure.

This approach is practical when an update needs administrator capabilities and the current user account lacks the necessary permissions to install the updates. The update procedure may raise the user's permissions and finish the installation, fixing the problem by utilizing sign-in information. Here's how to use sign-in info to complete the Update:

Step 1. Navigate to "Settings" to activate this function.

Step 2. Go to "Accounts" > "Sign-in Options" > and click the appropriate item.

Fix 3. Run Windows Troubleshooter

Running the Windows Troubleshooter may assist in resolving Windows Error Code 0x80240020 by automatically finding and correcting any issues preventing updates from installing correctly. The Windows Troubleshooter is a built-in program that can discover and resolve different Windows update difficulties, such as failures with the Windows Update service, corrupt update files, and network connectivity issues.

Downloading Windows Update Troubleshooter and launching it may save time and effort by allowing the application to diagnose and solve the problem automatically. Here's how to run the Windows Troubleshooter:

Step 1. Use the Windows key + I to enter the Settings app.

Step 2. Select "Update & Security" > choose "Troubleshoot" > select "Windows Update".

Step 3. Click "Run the troubleshooter" under the "Get up and running" section.

Note: Wait for the troubleshooter to complete its scan for issues. Follow the on-screen instructions to implement the suggested remedies if any problems are noted.

Step 4. After troubleshooting, reboot your computer to verify the modifications have taken effect.

Step 5. Check to see whether the problem has been fixed by upgrading Windows again.

Fix 4. Delete the SoftwareDistribution Folder

By removing the temporary update files and requiring Windows to download new update files, deleting the SoftwareDistribution folder may help resolve Windows Error Code 0x80240020. Windows saves temporary files related to Windows updates in the SoftwareDistribution system folder. Deleting this folder may alleviate difficulties caused by damaged update files or other issues that prevent updates from installing correctly. After deleting the folder, Windows will build a new SoftwareDistribution folder and download new update files.

Here's how to delete the SoftwareDistribution folder:

Step 1. Go to the following folder and remove everything from it: C: Windows/SoftwareDistribution/Download

Step 2. Right-click the "Start Menu" button, choose and boot "Command Prompt".

Step 3. Press Enter after typing the following line: /updateow wuauclt.exe

Step 4. Wait until the operation is completed before closing the Command Prompt.

Step 5. Now, go to the "Start Menu", open the "Settings" app, choose "Update", and attempt downloading updates again. Go to "Control Panel" and "Update" if you haven't yet downloaded Windows 10.

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How to Recover Data When Windows Error Occurs

Windows Error Code 0x80240020 may be inconvenient and sometimes result in data loss. Users may lose essential information, documents, or images when repairing the issue in certain situations. This may be a significant problem, mainly if the deleted data is not backed up. Fortunately, data recovery software is available to assist in recovering permanently deleted files quickly and effectively.

EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard is one such option. This program is intended to assist users in recovering data that has been lost due to several factors, such as file system failures, system crashes, unintentional deletion, and more. EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard is compatible with Windows 11/10/8/7 and has a user-friendly interface allowing inexperienced users to recover lost data. The program can recover a variety of file kinds, including documents, photographs, videos, and audio files. It also supports hard drive recovery and can recover data from SSDs, USB flash drives, and memory cards, among other storage media.

Key Features of EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard

• 📃Recovers various file types from different storage devices.
• 😊User-friendly interface for easy data recovery.
• ❎Recovers data lost due to system errors, crashes, or deletion.
• 🔢The free version offers 2GB of data recovery.
• 💻Compatible with Windows 11/10/8/7.

More importantly, EaseUS software is easy to operate. Here below are the exact steps:

Note: To guarantee a high data recovery chance, install EaseUS data recovery software on another disk instead of the original disk where you lost files. 

Step 1. Launch EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard on your Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, or Windows 7 computer. Select the disk partition or storage location where you lost data and click "Scan".

Step 2. This recovery software will start scanning the disk to find all lost and deleted files. When the scan process completes, click "Filter" > "Type" to specify lost file types.

Step 3. Preview and restore lost Windows files. You can double-click to preview the scanned files. Then, select the target data and click the "Recover" button to save them to another safe spot in the PC or an external storage device.

The Bottom Line

Fixing Windows Update problems may be a hassle, but luckily, you can take a few different approaches. Users may be able to resolve Windows error number 0x80240020 by checking the BITS service, utilizing sign-in info to finish updates, running the Windows Troubleshooter, or removing the SoftwareDistribution folder.

Furthermore, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard is a trustworthy software for recovering lost files if data is lost throughout the procedure. EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard is a top choice for recovering deleted files because of its intuitive design, a wide variety of supported file types, and compatibility with a wide range of Windows versions.

Windows Error Code 0x80240020 FAQs

Here come other questions related to Windows Updates.

1. What is SCCM feature update error 0x80240020?

SCCM feature update error 0x80240020 might occur while installing feature updates using SCCM. Several things, including a corrupted or incomplete download, BITS service difficulties, or wrong settings, might cause it.

2. What is error code 0x80240022 in SCCM?

SCCM error number 0x80240022 is frequently encountered while downloading Windows Update or SCCM updates. Several circumstances, including a lack of disk space, wrong system settings, or program incompatibilities, may cause it.

3. How do I reset Windows Updates?

You may use the Windows Update Troubleshooter or manually reset the Windows Updates components to reset Windows Updates. The processes vary depending on the Windows version but typically include halting the Windows Update services, clearing the temporary update files, and resuming the services.

4. How do I fix Windows repair errors?

To repair Windows, utilize the built-in System File Checker (SFC) or Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) utilities. SFC searches and fixes system files, while DISM may repair Windows images and resolve system issues. With administrator capabilities, you may launch these tools from the Command Prompt or by opening PowerShell.