Comprehensive Guide to Fixing Error 0x80070426 in Windows

Error 0x80070426 is a common issue that plagues Windows users, often disrupting essential services like Windows Update, Microsoft Store, and the Xbox App. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the causes of this error and provide step-by-step solutions to resolve it effectively.

Understanding Error 0x80070426

Error 0x80070426 typically indicates that a required service is not active or that system files have become corrupted. This error can manifest in several ways:

• Preventing Windows Updates from installing
• Blocking access to the Microsoft Store
• Causing the Xbox App to malfunction

The impact of this error is significant, as it can leave your system vulnerable to security threats and prevent you from accessing important features and applications.

For a detailed explanation of this error, you can refer to our dedicated article on Error 0x80070426.

Common Causes of Error 0x80070426

1. Corrupted System Files: Often the result of improper shutdowns, malware infections, or failed updates.
2. Windows Update Issues: Malfunctioning update components or corrupted update files.
3. Microsoft Account Service Problems: Sign-in issues or service disruptions.
4. Software Conflicts: Particularly between different security tools.

How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80070426

Reset Windows Update Components

1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
2. Stop the BITS, Windows Update, and Cryptographic services:
   • net stop bits
   • net stop wuauserv
   • net stop cryptsvc
3. Rename the SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 folders:
   • ren %systemroot%\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
   • ren %systemroot%\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old
4. Restart the services:
   • net start bits
   • net start wuauserv
   • net start cryptsvc

If you encounter other Windows Update errors during this process, such as Error 0x80246007 or Error 0x80240439, please refer to our specific guides for these issues.

Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
2. Select “Windows Update” and click “Run the troubleshooter“.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to apply fixes.

Restart Essential Services

1. Press Windows + R, type “services.msc“, and hit Enter.
2. Locate and restart these services:
   • Windows Update
   • Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS)
   • Cryptographic Services

Resolving Microsoft Store Error 0x80070426

Reset Microsoft Store Cache

1. Press Windows + R, type “wsreset.exe“, and hit Enter.
2. Wait for the process to complete and the Store to reopen.

Run Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
2. Select “Windows Store Apps” and run the troubleshooter.

Re-register Microsoft Store

1. Open PowerShell as administrator.
2. Run the following command:
   • Get-AppXPackage *WindowsStore* -AllUsers | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"}

Fixing Xbox App Error 0x80070426

Reset Xbox App

1. Go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features.
2. Find the Xbox app, click “Advanced options“, and select “Reset“.

If you’re experiencing slow performance with your Xbox app, check out our guide on why your Xbox might be slow.

Ensure Microsoft Account Sign-in Assistant is Running

1. Press Windows + R, type “services.msc“, and hit Enter.
2. Find “Microsoft Account Sign-in Assistant“.
3. Set Startup type to “Automatic” and start the service if not running.

Re-register Xbox App

1. Open PowerShell as administrator.
2. Run the following command:
   • Get-AppxPackage -allusers Microsoft.XboxApp | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"}

If you’re having issues with Xbox Remote Play, our article on Xbox Remote Play not working might be helpful.

Advanced Troubleshooting Methods

Run SFC and DISM Scans

1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
2. Run SFC scan: sfc /scannow
3. Run DISM scan: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Perform a Clean Boot

1. Press Windows + R, type “msconfig“, and hit Enter.
2. In System Configuration, go to “Services” tab.
3. Check “Hide all Microsoft services” and click “Disable all“.
4. Go to “Startup” tab and click “Open Task Manager“.
5. Disable all startup items and restart your PC.

If you’re having issues with your Windows 10 PIN, you might want to check our guide on Windows 10 PIN not working.

Prevention and Best Practices

• Keep Windows up-to-date to avoid compatibility issues.
• Regularly run system maintenance tools like Disk Cleanup.
• Be cautious when installing new software to avoid conflicts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can Error 0x80070426 cause data loss? A: While the error itself doesn’t typically cause data loss, attempting incorrect fixes might. Always backup important data before troubleshooting.

Q: How often should I run SFC and DISM scans? A: It’s recommended to run these scans monthly or whenever you experience system issues.

Q: Will resetting Windows Update components delete my files? A: No, this process only affects Windows Update files and won’t impact your personal data.

Q: What if I encounter other error codes during the update process? A: If you encounter errors like 0x8007042b or 0x80071a91, refer to our specific guides for these error codes.

Conclusion

Error 0x80070426 can be frustrating, but with the steps outlined in this guide, you should be able to resolve it effectively. Remember to keep your system updated and maintain good software hygiene to prevent future occurrences of this and similar errors. If problems persist, consider seeking help from Microsoft Support or a professional technician.