Quite often, when updating .NET Framework 3.5, Cumulative Updates and other system packages, the error 0x800f081f occurs. This leads to unstable operation of Windows – up to freezing. In this article, we will consider the main reasons for the error and how to fix it.
Causes of Error 0x800f081f
A user may encounter error 0x800f081f for a variety of reasons. Most often, the problem is as follows:
- Missing files or components required to install the update;
- Damage to system files or registry;
- Problems with Windows Component Store;
- Conflict between a fresh update and previously installed patches at the system level;
- Blocking necessary files by antivirus.
Ways to fix error 0x800f081f
The methods for solving this problem largely depend on the reason for its occurrence. But in any case, you should start with the most basic actions, namely, checking the device for viruses and spyware, installing fresh drivers and cleaning the registry. Also, make sure that your hard drive has enough free space to install updates.
If after this the unpleasant notification continues to pop up, you should resort to more complex options.
System File Checker
The System File Checker utility is considered one of the most effective tools built into the system itself and allowing you to solve many problems. It can check the integrity of important files responsible for installing updates and restore them if necessary.
To start the check through the program you need to:
- Right-click on “Start” and open “Windows Terminal (Administrator)”;
In the field, type the command sfc /scannow and press Enter.
After that, all that remains is to wait for the scan to finish. If damaged files are detected, the system will try to restore them. At the very end, you need to reboot the computer and check if the error has been resolved. By the way, you can read the program’s work report both in the terminal window and in a special file.
Component Store Repair Tool
DISM is another built-in tool for scanning and repairing system components. To fix installation error 0x800f081f using it:
- Right-click on “Start” and open “Windows Terminal (Admin)”;Type the command DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth and press Enter
This option allows you to repair damage found in the Windows image component store by downloading, installing or replacing missing and faulty files. The procedure itself can take more than half an hour of real time, after which you will need to restart the computer.
Disabling antivirus
If the internal Windows defender usually works stably, then third-party antiviruses can “overdo it” and cause that very error. After all, they really “love” to block the installation of necessary updates.
But if you have problems with the installation, temporarily disable the built-in antivirus. To do this:
- Open the Settings panel via Start;
- In the left column, first click on “Privacy and Security”, and then “Windows Security”;
- From the options that appear, select “Virus and threat protection”;
- In the window that appears, click on the “Manage settings” button;
Disable the protection by simply switching all the switches.
Also, just in case, disable the firewall. The algorithm of actions is as follows:
In the Control Panel, open the System and Security tab;
- Click on “Windows Defender Firewall”;
- On the left side, click on the line “Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off”;
- Check the boxes next to “Turn off Windows Defender Firewall”.
The main thing is not to forget to turn Windows Defender and the firewall back on after the updates are installed. As for third-party antivirus programs, they are disabled in the “Options” or “Settings” of the application.
Reset Windows Update
If the previous options did not help, then you will have to deal with the Windows update center. This section is responsible for installing system updates.
- In the familiar way, launch “Windows Terminal (Administrator)”;
- In the free field, type the command net stop wuauserv;
- Go to the C:WindowsSoftwareDistribution folder where all past updates are located and delete it.
This option is effective only if the cause was damage to the service components. In other cases, it is better not to go there again, since there is a high risk of damaging the operating system.
Enabling .NET Framework 3.5
This method only works if the 0x800f081f error occurred due to .NET Framework 3.5. The system component will need to be enabled manually. This is done as follows:
- In the Control Panel, click on Programs;
- In the new window, click on “Programs and Features”;
- On the left side, open the item “Turn Windows features on or off”;Check the box next to “.NET Framework 3.5 (includes .NET 2.0 and 3.0)” and click the “OK” button.
When the operating system asks, reboot your computer. Don’t forget to ensure a reliable internet connection before you begin.