What is Error Code 0x80070490?

Error code 0x80070490 is a common Windows error, frequently indicating issues with system components that can prevent updates or other core functions from working correctly.

Error code 0x80070490, often encountered on various Windows versions, signals a problem within your operating system, particularly concerning its ability to process updates or interact with specific system components. This error most commonly appears during or immediately after a Windows update process. It often points to a situation where a crucial system component has become damaged or lost during an update, prompting Windows to display this error code as a protective measure to safeguard system integrity.

Understanding the Causes of Error 0x80070490

The presence of error 0x80070490 typically indicates underlying system corruption or issues with essential Windows services. Common culprits include:

• Corrupt System Files: Critical files necessary for Windows Update or other system operations might be damaged or missing.
• Damaged or Lost Components: As mentioned, a key component vital for an update or system function might have been compromised or removed during an update process.
• Windows Update Service Glitches: Problems with the internal Windows Update service or its cache can prevent updates from installing.
• Conflicting Software: Third-party antivirus programs or other software might interfere with Windows Update processes.
• Registry Issues: Corrupted entries within the Windows Registry can sometimes lead to this error.
• Driver Problems: Outdated or corrupted device drivers might conflict with system operations, especially after an update.

When Does Error 0x80070490 Appear?

Users typically encounter this error in specific scenarios:

• During Windows Updates: When attempting to download and install new Windows updates.
• After a Failed Update: If a previous update failed to complete successfully, leaving the system in an inconsistent state.
• When Using Specific Windows Features: Occasionally, it can appear when trying to use certain built-in Windows applications or features that rely on compromised system components.

Practical Solutions to Resolve Error 0x80070490

Resolving error 0x80070490 often involves troubleshooting and repairing corrupted system files or resetting update components. Here are several effective methods:

1. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter:

   • Navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot (or System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters on Windows 11).
   • Select Windows Update and click Run the troubleshooter.
   • Follow the on-screen instructions to allow Windows to detect and fix common update issues.

2. Utilize System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM):
   These command-line tools can repair corrupted system files and the Windows image.

   • Open Command Prompt or PowerShell as an administrator.
   • Type sfc /scannow and press Enter. Let the scan complete.
   • After SFC, run the DISM commands:
     • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
     • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
     • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
   • Restart your computer after running these commands.

3. Reset Windows Update Components:
   Sometimes, corrupted Windows Update cache or services can cause the error. Resetting these can resolve the problem.

   • Open Command Prompt or PowerShell as an administrator.
   • Stop the Windows Update services:
     • net stop wuauserv
     • net stop cryptSvc
     • net stop bits
     • net stop msiserver
   • Rename the SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 folders:
     • ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
     • ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old
   • Restart the Windows Update services:
     • net start wuauserv
     • net start cryptSvc
     • net start bits
     • net start msiserver
   • Attempt to run Windows Update again.

4. Perform a Clean Boot:
   A clean boot starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs, helping to identify software conflicts.

   • Press Win + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
   • Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, and click Disable all.
   • Go to the Startup tab, click Open Task Manager, and disable all startup items.
   • Restart your computer and try the update. If it works, re-enable services and startup items gradually to find the culprit.

5. Check for Antivirus/Security Software Interference:
   Temporarily disable your third-party antivirus or firewall to see if it's blocking the update process. Remember to re-enable it afterward.

6. Use System Restore:
   If the error appeared recently, you might be able to revert your system to a previous state when it was working correctly.

   • Search for "Create a restore point" and open System Properties.
   • Click System Restore... and follow the prompts to choose a restore point before the error began.

7. Perform an In-Place Upgrade (Repair Install):
   This method reinstalls Windows while keeping your personal files and applications. It can repair deeply corrupted system files without data loss.

   • Download the Windows Media Creation Tool from Microsoft's official website.
   • Run the tool, select "Upgrade this PC now," and follow the instructions. Choose to "Keep personal files and apps."

Summary of Solutions

Solution	Description	When to Use
Windows Update Troubleshooter	Automated tool to diagnose and fix common update issues.	First step for any update-related error.
SFC and DISM Scans	Repairs corrupted system files and the Windows image.	If the troubleshooter fails, indicates deeper file corruption.
Reset Windows Update Components	Clears update cache and resets services to resolve update service glitches.	When update services are suspected to be corrupted.
Clean Boot	Helps identify software conflicts by starting Windows with minimal programs.	If third-party software is suspected to be interfering.
Disable Antivirus (Temporarily)	Checks if security software is blocking updates.	If a third-party antivirus is installed.
System Restore	Reverts the system to a previous working state.	If the error occurred after a recent change or update.
In-Place Upgrade (Repair Install)	Reinstalls Windows without losing files, fixing major system corruption.	As a last resort for persistent issues, after other methods fail.

By systematically working through these solutions, you can effectively diagnose and resolve error code 0x80070490 and restore your Windows system's update functionality.