Windows Update error code 0x800f0985 commonly prevents the successful installation of cumulative updates on Windows 10, 11, and Server 2019 systems. This guide outlines several troubleshooting steps to resolve this issue and ensure your system remains up-to-date.

Possible Causes of Error 0x800f0985

  • Corrupted or missing system files
  • Issues with Windows Update components
  • Incomplete previous updates
  • Low disk space

Method 1: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

The Windows Update Troubleshooter is a built-in tool designed to detect and fix common issues with Windows Update.

  1. Press Windows key + I to open Settings and click on System on the left.
  1. Select Troubleshoot.
  1. Choose Other troubleshooters on the next page.
  1. Click on Run on the right of the Windows Update option.
  1. Let the troubleshooter run and then follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.

Method 2: Use DISM and SFC Tools to Repair System Files

Corrupted system files can cause update errors. The DISM and SFC tools can scan and repair these files.

  1. Type cmd in the search bar and select Run as administrator.
  1. In the Command Prompt window, execute the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
sfc /scannow
  1. Wait for the scans to complete. This may take some time.
  1. Once finished, restart your computer.

Method 3: Reset Windows Update Components

Resetting the Windows Update components can resolve issues caused by corrupted update files.

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
  2. Stop the Windows Update services by running the following commands:
net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptSvc
net stop bits
net stop msiserver
  1. Rename the SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 folders by executing:
ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old
  1. Restart the Windows Update services with these commands:
net start wuauserv
net start cryptSvc
net start bits
net start msiserver
  1. Close the Command Prompt and restart your system.

Method 4: Manually Install the Update

If the automatic update fails, manually downloading and installing the update can bypass some issues.

  1. Press Windows key + I to open Settings and go to Windows Update.
  1. Click on View update history.
  1. Note the KB number of the failed update (e.g., KB5022286).
  2. Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog.
  1. Enter the KB number in the search bar and press Search.
  1. Download the update matching your system architecture (x64-based).
  1. Run the downloaded file and follow the installation instructions.
  1. Restart your computer after the installation is complete.

Method 5: Perform Disk Cleanup

Insufficient disk space can prevent updates from installing correctly. Freeing up space might resolve the error.

  1. Type Disk Cleanup in the search bar and open the utility.
  1. Select your system drive (usually C:) and click OK.
  1. Click on Clean up system files.
  1. Select the file types to delete, such as:
  • Windows Update Cleanup
  • Temporary Internet Files
  • Recycle Bin
  • Temporary Files
  1. Click OK to begin the cleanup process.
  1. Once completed, restart your computer.

By following these methods, you should be able to fix the Windows Update error 0x800f0985 and keep your system up to date. Keeping your Windows installation current is essential for security and optimal performance.