What Is Windows Update Error Code 0x80070103? How To Fix Windows Update Error Code 0x80070103?

What Is Windows Update Error Code 0x80070103 When you try to update drivers using Windows Update although the drivers are already on your computer, error code 80070103 appears. Users often wonder What Is Windows Update Error Code 0x80070103. We will explore What Is Windows Update Error Code 0x80070103, its causes, and fixes in this article.  

by P Nandhini | Updated Feb 17, 2023

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What Is Windows Update Error Code 0x80070103?

Windows 7, 8, 8.1, and 10 users frequently see error code 80070103, also known as error code 0x80070103 or WindowsUpdate 80070103. Moreover, this issue nags while installing device drivers for Windows updates for Intel, HP USB, Realtek, HIDClass, NVIDIA, and other manufacturers. When attempting to install a driver that is already installed or that may be less compatible than the driver that is now installed on your PC, error 80070103 is likely to occur.

Go to the section that is appropriate for your operating system to learn more about error code 80070103 and to get step-by-step instructions on how to fix it.

How Do I Know That I Have Error Code 80070103?

Windows always alerts you by default when an update fails. You may receive various error messages depending on the precise operating system version you are using. The error message might read something like "Windows Update encountered an unexpected error" or "Windows could not search for new updates," for instance. While your computer was looking for fresh updates, an issue happened.

Cause Of Windows Update Error Code 0x80070103

The most common cause of the Windows update problem 0x80070103 is attempting to perform an existing driver update alongside a Windows update. That means that your machine is attempting to install Windows updates simultaneously with an existing driver update. However, other elements may be the cause of the 0x80070103 issue on your PC. Some are:

Driver update compatibility issues – If the driver updates your computer is trying to install are incompatible with the version of Windows running on it, then the error code 0x80070103 may appear.

Driver underuse – It can occasionally be challenging to update drivers when they are in use. So, if other programs utilize the driver you want to install, the error 0x80070103 could happen.

Corrupt system files – If a corrupt system file causes a problem with the update procedure, the error code 0x80070103 may emerge. Here are some methods for fixing corrupt system files.

Your computer's 0x80070103 Windows update problem could have different causes than those of other users. But, you can resolve the issue by running a Computer diagnostic.

How To Fix Windows Update Error Code 0x80070103?

These are all the fixes for Windows Update Error 0x80070103 that you may use on a PC running Windows 11 or 10.

  • Run Windows Update Troubleshooter
  • Flush the SoftwareDistribution folder
  • Install the offered Drive & Optional Update

Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

Windows has a variety of built-in troubleshooting tools that you can use to solve a variety of issues. You may rely on Windows Update Troubleshooter to solve any Windows Update problem. By taking the actions listed below, you can use this functionality.

  • By hitting the Windows shortcut key + I, you can access the Settings menu.
  • On the left side of the screen, select the System option by tapping it.
  • Then select Troubleshoot.
  • Click on Other troubleshooters in the window that appears after that.
  • Choose Run from the menu that appears next to Windows Update.
  • The Windows Update troubleshooting will start. Restart your computer after the procedure is finished, then attempt to download the update.

Check to see whether the situation has been fixed. If not, try the following method.

Flush the SoftwareDistribution folder

The SoftwareDistribution folder serves as a temporary home for all of the Windows Update files. But, if these files are ever corrupted, you will experience the aforementioned error code. You will need to remove the SoftwareDistribution folder in order to fix the issue. The steps that you must take are listed below.

  • You will need to stop the Windows Update Services first. To do this, open Command Prompt in administrator mode, enter the commands shown below and then click OK.
  • Go to C: Windows, open File Explorer and then look for the SoftwareDistribution folder.
  • Delete the folder.
  • Activate administrator mode on Command Prompt once more.
  • Enter the commands listed below as you type them. The Windows Update Service will launch.
  • That’s it. Restart your computer now to see whether the issue still exists. If so, try the following method.

Install the offered Drive & Optional Update

You can now attempt to install the Updates after completing the first two procedures.

The steps are as follows for installing drivers and optional updates in Windows 11:

  • Choose Settings by performing right-clicking on the Start button.
  • Choose the Windows Updates tab from the list on the left-hand side of the Settings window.
  • Choose Advanced Settings from the Windows Updates tab.
  • Optional updates can be found in the Extra options menu.
  • Choose the updates you want to download by clicking on them.
  • If the problem code 0x80070103 persists, you might need to hide that update rather than install it at all. Revert the driver or remove the update if it somehow managed to get installed.

We hope the fixes will help you to resolve the problem.

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What Is Windows Update Error Code 0x80070103: FAQs

1. What Is Windows Update Error Code 0x80070103?  

Windows 7, 8, 8.1, and 10 users frequently see error code 80070103, also known as error code 0x80070103 or WindowsUpdate 80070103. Moreover, this issue nags while installing device drivers for Windows updates for Intel, HP USB, Realtek, HIDClass, NVIDIA, and other manufacturers. 

2. What is Realtek install error install error 0x80070103?  

Error code 80070103 happens when you attempt to update drivers with Windows Update, but the drivers are already installed to your computer. Alternatively, the same error can happen if you're trying to install a driver that has a low compatibility rating with your machine.

3. Why is Windows 10 failing to update?  

Lack of drive space: If your computer doesn't have enough free drive space to complete a Windows 10 update, the update will stop, and Windows will report a failed update. Clearing some space will usually do the trick. Corrupt update files: Deleting the bad update files will usually fix this problem.

4. What are the causes of Windows Update failing errors?  

A common cause of errors is inadequate drive space. If you need help freeing up drive space, see Tips to free up drive space on your PC. The steps in this guided walk-through should help with all Windows Update errors and other issues—you don't need to search for the specific error to solve it.

5. How do I force a Windows 10 update manually?  

If you want to install the update now, select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update , and then select Check for updates. If updates are available, install them.