How to Fix Windows Update Error 0xc1900208?

Summary: Windows Update Error 0xC1900208 – 0x4000C can happen suddenly. It stops updates from installing. In this guide we explain how you can fix the error and install updates for Windows. Sometimes users can face a situation where the error could either be the cause, or the effect of loss of data. We’ll also explain how you can recover your data using data recovery software.

Keeping Windows 10 updated is crucial. Updates fix security vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit, protecting your system.

They also bring new features and bug fixes to improve performance and stability.

But suddenly you might see a pop-up box that says unable to make changes to your software – Error 0xc1900208.

In this guide, we walk you through the steps to diagnose and fix the issue, getting your windows update back on track.

Table of Content:

• What is Windows Update Error 0xc1900208?
• What Are the Potential Causes of Error Code 0xc1900208?
• How to Fix Error 0xc1900208?

What is Windows Update Error 0xc1900208?

When trying to upgrade your computer to Windows 10, you might encounter the error code 0xc1900208. But what does this error mean? This error points to an application or program on your system that is not compatible with the new version of Windows.

If your upgrade process to Windows 10 faces continuous interruptions, it’s likely that error 0xc1900208 is the cause. In many cases, you will see the specific error code 0xc1900208- on your screen.

To address this error, you first have to understand the root cause.

This error indicates that there was a problem with installing updates on the system.

What Are the Potential Causes of Error Code 0xc1900208?

The error code 0xc1900208 can happen due to various underlying issues. These are the common reasons.

1.  Compatibility Issues

One of the main reasons behind error 0xC1900208 – 0x4000C is compatibility issues between the Windows update and the system’s hardware or software configuration.

This usually happens if drivers or software components are incompatible with the update being installed.

2. Corrupted System Files

Corruption in system files or the Windows Update components can also lead to error 0xc1900208. If essential system files are damaged or missing, it can interfere with the update process.

3. Network Issues

Sometimes, network connectivity problems can hinder the download or installation of Windows updates, leading to error 0xc1900208.

4. Third-Party Software

Certain antivirus programs or security software may interfere with the Windows update process, causing error 0xc1900208. These programs may prevent updates from being installed correctly.

How to Fix Error 0xc1900208?

There are several ways to remove and fix Error 0xc1900208. We will give you detailed steps about how to update your Windows system and remove the error 0xC1900208 – 0x4000C.

Method 1. Remove Incompatible Software

Software conflicts are at the root of most Windows errors. It happens when an application cannot work with the update patch.

1. Type Control Panel in the Search Bar

2. Press Enter to open the Control Panel window

3. Click on the Programs category

4. Select Programs and Features

5. You will find a list of installed programs

6. Look for any software that you suspect is incompatible with the Windows update

7. Common culprits include antivirus programs or recently installed applications

8. Click on the Uninstall button at the top of the Programs and Features window

9. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the uninstallation process

10. After uninstalling the incompatible software, restart your computer

Once your computer has restarted, attempt to install the Windows update again.

See if the error 0xc1900208 persists. If the update proceeds without issues, the incompatible software was likely the cause of the error.

Also Read: How to Fix Windows Update Error 0xc1900223?

Method 2. Reset Windows Update Components

Resetting Windows Update Components is our next troubleshooting technique.

When you update Windows, several services and files work together in the background to download and install the updates.  Over time, these components can become corrupted, leading to update errors.

1. To reset Windows Update Components

2. Type CMD at Search bar and right click

3. Select Command Prompt (Admin)

4. In the Command Prompt window, type the following commands one by one. After each press Enter

• net stop bits
• net stop wuauserv
• net stop appidsvc
• net stop cryptsvc
• These commands will stop several background processes

5. Now enter these commands and press Enter after each

• Ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
• Ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.old
• This will rename the SoftwareDistribution folder to SoftwareDistribution.old and the Catroot2 folder to Catroot2.old

6. Restart Windows Update Services by typing and entering the following commands

• net start bits
• net start wuauserv
• net start appidsvc
• net start cryptsvc

7. To test if it solved your problem, go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update

8. Click on Check for updates to initiate the update process.

If it updates correctly your problem with error 0xC1900208 – 0x4000C is solved.

Also Read: How to Fix the Windows Update Error 0x80070002?

Method 3. Use Windows Media Creation Tool to Upgrade

The Media Creation Tool allows users to download Windows installation media. You can download and maintain updates through this utility. 

1. Visit the official Microsoft website and download the Windows Media Creation Tool.

2. Make sure to download the version that matches your system architecture (32-bit or 64-bit).

3. Install the Media Creation Tool by double-clicking on the downloaded file.

4. Read through the terms and conditions, then click on the Accept button.

5. On the next screen select the Upgrade this PC now option.

6. Click Next to continue.

7. The Windows Media Creation Tool will now download the necessary files and begin the upgrade process.

8. Once the upgrade process is complete, the tool will prompt you to restart your computer.

9. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.

You have successfully installed the latest updates and prevented error code 0xc1900208.

Method 4. Perform System Restore

System Restore is a built-in Windows tool that acts like a time machine for your system. Using it you can revert your computer’s state (including Windows Registry settings) to a previous point in time.

This can be helpful if you’re experiencing problems like error code 0xc1900208.

Here are the steps:

1. Type in the Search bar, Create a restore point

2. Click the System Restore button.

3. Click Next to continue.

4. Choose a restore point from the provided list

5. Confirm your restore point selection and click Next.

6. Click Finish to initiate the restore process.

7. Now the computer will restart many times and revert back to a previous state.

8. When it is complete, try to update manually.

9. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update

10. Click on Check for updates to ensure that your system is up-to-date.

If it updates properly the error code 0xC1900208 – 0x4000C problem is fixed.

With these steps, you are well-equipped to tackle error 0xc1900208 and get your Windows update back on track. However, it’s always crucial to prioritize data safety during any troubleshooting process.

Also Read: Windows Update Error 0x80240017 

How to Recover Data in Case Error Code 0xc1900208 Happens?

Unexpected errors can sometimes lead to data loss.

Error code 0xc1900208 doesn’t usually cause data loss. 

However, while the error code itself might not directly lead to data loss, any glitch makes the computer unstable. 

If a Windows update fails to install due to error code 0xc1900208, Windows will roll back the changes to the previous state.

The rollback process could lead to data loss. This is because files or settings were modified during the update and now have to be changed back.

Data recovery is possible in the following ways:

1. Using Backup Data – If you regularly create a backup it is the best way to recover data. Buy a new SSD or hard disk and transfer the backup. 
2. Data Recovery Software – If you don’t maintain a backup use a reputable data recovery software like Stellar Data Recovery Software to retrieve lost files from your system. But first shut off the computer because you don’t want the hard drive to get overwritten. 
3. Data Recovery Services – If all attempts fail seek help from data recovery services. They have trained personnel and advanced software to clone the drive sector by sector.

Also Read: The Computer Won’t Wake Up From Sleep on Windows 11: How to Fix the Issue?

FAQs

1. What should I do if I encounter a Windows Error Message?

First, carefully read the error message. It often contains error codes. Note down the serial number such as error code 0xC004F074.

Next, search the internet for the specific error message or code. This will lead you to troubleshooting guides from Microsoft communities.

Also Read: Windows 11 March 2023 Update Issues: (KB5023706)

2. How can I Repair Corrupted system Files that cause Windows Errors?

There is a tool built into Windows that can help repair corrupted system files

System File Checker (SFC) is the built-in tool. It scans for and repairs corrupted system files using cached copies stored on your system. 

You need to:

• Open Command Prompt as administrator.
• Type the command sfc /scannow and press Enter.

It will scan and attempt to fix any corrupted files it finds.

3. Can updating Windows drivers prevent error 0xc1900208?

Absolutely. Ensure all system drivers are current before upgrading to Windows 10. This can minimize compatibility issues and prevent update errors.

4. How do I check if Windows Update is installed?

Go to ‘Settings’, click ‘Update & Security’, and select ‘Windows Update’. Here, view your update status to confirm if the latest updates are installed.

5. Are Windows 7 updates still available?

No, Microsoft discontinued support for Windows 7, which means updates are no longer available, encouraging users to upgrade to Windows 10.

6. How can I Recover Lost Data on a Windows System?

There are several methods for data recovery on Windows systems. These include using data recovery software for data retrieval. 

You can also access previous versions of files or rely on backups.

If nothing works then you have to ask for help from a professional data recovery service.

7. What is Data Recovery Software?

Data recovery software is a type of computer program that helps you retrieve files that have been deleted, formatted, or lost due to corruption or damage. 

These are some of the data loss scenarios that data recovery software can help with:

• Accidentally deleted files
• Formatted drives
• Corrupted drives
• Lost partitions

8. How does Data Recovery Software Work?

When you delete a file, the space it occupies is marked free. But the actual 0s and 1s are not deleted. 

The software scans for these marked spaces and tries to piece together the data. But it has to happen before it’s overwritten. The success depends on how much data has been written since deletion.  

We value your feedback! Tell us about any Windows errors, update issues, or data loss you experience.  Your insights help us improve your experience. 

9. Is error 0xc1900208 a sign of a virus?

While malware can cause error 0xc1900208, it’s not the only reason. Outdated software or drivers are more common culprits. Check the error message for specific codes that might indicate malware.

10. How can I prevent error 0xc1900208 from happening again?

Keep your Windows system updated with the latest patches. Regularly update device drivers and software applications. Running a malware scan periodically can also help prevent unexpected errors.

We value your feedback! Tell us about any Windows errors, update issues, or data loss you experience. Your insights help us improve your experience.