Windows Update Error 0x80080005 — Server Connection and Service Errors

Fix Windows Update error 0x80080005 when the update service fails to connect to Microsoft servers or encounters Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS) issues. This guide covers everything you need to know about this topic, including common causes, step-by-step solutions, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Here are the key things to understand: Error 0x80080005 indicates the Windows Update client failed to connect or authenticate with the update service. BITS (Background Intelligent Transfer Service) is used by Windows Update for downloading updates. Corrupted update cache or BITS queue can trigger this error repeatedly. Third-party antivirus may block Windows Update service connections. Group Policy settings in corporate environments may restrict update service access. Understanding these fundamentals will help you diagnose and resolve this issue more effectively.

The most common reasons this occurs include: BITS service not running or in a corrupted state. Windows Update cache (SoftwareDistribution folder) corrupted from previous failed updates. Antivirus or firewall blocking Windows Update service connections to Microsoft servers. System date/time incorrect causing SSL certificate validation failures. Identifying the root cause is the first step toward finding the right solution.

To resolve this, follow these recommended steps: Restart update services: open Command Prompt as admin, run 'net stop wuauserv && net stop bits && net start bits && net start wuauserv'. Clear update cache: stop wuauserv, rename C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution to SoftwareDistribution.old, restart wuauserv. Run Windows Update Troubleshooter: Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Windows Update. Verify date/time accuracy: Settings > Time & Language > Date & time > Set time automatically. Reset Windows Update components completely using the Microsoft Update Reset script (wu10.diagcab). If these steps do not resolve the issue, consider consulting additional resources or a qualified professional.

This article is part of our Windows Error Codes collection on Error Codes Wiki. We provide comprehensive, up-to-date information to help you find solutions quickly.