How to Fix the 0x80072AF9 Windows Error Code? Causes and Solutions
by Janani
Updated Jun 28, 2023
What is 0x80072AF9 Windows Error Code?
The error code 0x80072af9 is commonly experienced when a Windows Update fails to install. This specific hexadecimal error code indicates that the update is unable to proceed due to the message "No such host is known."
As a result, many users are unable to upgrade to a higher version of Windows because a critical update is encountering the 0x80072af9 error and cannot be installed. If you are encountering the 0x80072af9 error while attempting to install updates through Windows Update (WU), this article provides troubleshooting steps to help you resolve the issue.
Causes of the 0x80072af9 Windows Error Code
There are many causes for the 0x80072af9 Error.
After you find out the underlying causes, you can take appropriate steps to address the issues and resolve the 0x80072af9 error on your computer.
How to Fix the 0x80072AF9 Windows Error Code?
The following methods have been curated based on their efficiency and simplicity, so it is recommended to follow them in order for the best results. Let's get started!
1. Using the Windows Update troubleshooter
Before diving into more technical methods, it's advisable to try the simple troubleshooting steps first. Some users have reported that they fixed the issue by using the built-in troubleshooter for Windows Update. This utility scans WU for any inconsistencies and automatically applies repair methods to resolve the issue.
Follow these steps to use the Windows Update troubleshooter and fix the 0x80072af9 error:
- Press the Windows key + R to open the Run command.
- Type "ms-settings:troubleshoot" and press Enter to open the Troubleshooting tab in the Settings app.
- In the Troubleshooting tab, scroll down to the "Get up and running" section, select "Windows Update," and click on "Run the troubleshooter."
- Wait for the initial scan to complete, and if a viable repair strategy is identified, click "Apply this fix."
- After applying the repair strategy, close the troubleshooter and restart your computer.
- Upon the next startup, try installing the pending update again and check if it installs correctly.
- If the 0x80072af9 error persists, proceed to the next method.
2. Using the Windows Update MiniTool
Some users have successfully bypassed the 0x80072af9 error by using a third-party tool called Windows Update MiniTool (WUMT). Although this method is confirmed to work with Office updates, it may also be worth trying for other failing updates.
Follow these steps to download and use the Windows Update MiniTool:
- Visit the following link (here) and click on the "Download" button to download the Windows Update MiniTool freeware.
- Extract the downloaded WUMT archive using a decompression utility like WinRar, WinZip, or 7zip.
- Double-click on the executable file that matches your system's architecture.
- Once the Windows Update MiniTool opens, click on the "Check for Updates" icon to initiate the scan. Note: Keep in mind that the Windows Update MiniTool might be slower compared to the built-in Windows Update. Please be patient and avoid closing the WUMT window until the search results are returned.
- Select the update you want to install by checking the corresponding icon and click the download and install icon.
- The utility will download and automatically install the update. Wait for the process to complete without closing the window.
- You can monitor the status of the update in the bottom section. If the update is installed successfully, restart your computer. If the 0x80072af9 error still occurs, proceed to the next method.
3. Install the update in Tablet Mode
Enabling Tablet Mode has worked for some users as a workaround to install pending updates without encountering the 0x80072af9 error. Although it may seem unconventional, many users have confirmed its effectiveness.
Here's a guide on how to enable Tablet Mode and install the missing update:
- Click on the notification bar in the bottom-right corner and select "Tablet Mode."
- With Tablet Mode enabled, press the Windows key + R to open the Run window.
- Type "ms-settings:windowsupdate" and press Enter to open the Windows Update menu.
- Click the "Check for updates" button and follow the on-screen prompts to install the previously failing update.
If the update still fails with the same error message, disable Tablet Mode and proceed to the next method.
4. Uninstall third party security suite
In some cases, the 0x80072af9 error can be caused by an external security solution. Several users have reported that uninstalling their third-party firewall resolved the issue. This is likely because Windows Update has had compatibility issues with overprotective third-party firewalls. Simply disabling real-time protection may not be sufficient, as the firewall rules will still be enforced.
To determine if your third-party security suite is causing the interference, follow these steps to uninstall it completely:
- Uninstall the security suite from your computer.
- Reboot your computer after the uninstallation process is complete.
- Upon the next startup, attempt to install the pending update again and see if the issue has been resolved.
If the issue persists, proceed to the next method.
5. Perform a repair install
If you have reached this point without any success, it is likely that the issue is caused by system file corruption. Standard methods like SFC (System File Checker) or DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) scans may not be effective in resolving the issue. In such cases, performing a repair install is recommended.
A repair install allows you to keep your personal files and applications while replacing Windows system files with fresh copies. Follow our complete guide (here) for detailed instructions on performing a repair install.
If the issue persists even after the repair installs, proceed to the final method.
6. Refresh your PC
If the previous methods have not resolved the 0x80072af9 error, performing a PC refresh may be worth a try. Many users in similar situations have successfully fixed the issue by performing a PC refresh. This procedure does not delete personal files or change settings, but it does remove any third-party applications you have installed.
Here's how to perform a PC refresh:
By following these troubleshooting methods in order, you should be able to resolve the 0x80072af9 error and install the failing updates successfully.
Windows
Windows is a widely used operating system developed by Microsoft. It provides a user-friendly interface and a range of features that cater to the needs of both personal and professional computer users.
Windows offers a variety of versions, including Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7, each with its own set of functionalities and improvements. It supports a wide range of devices, from desktop computers and laptops to tablets and smartphones.
One of the notable features of Windows is the Start menu, which serves as a central hub for accessing applications, files, and settings. It allows users to easily navigate through their computers and launch programs with just a few clicks.
Windows also provides a range of built-in applications and tools, such as web browsers, media players, and productivity applications like Microsoft Office. Additionally, users can download and install various third-party applications from the Microsoft Store to further enhance their computing experience.
Security is a key focus of Windows, with features such as Windows Defender providing built-in protection against viruses, malware, and other threats. Regular updates from Microsoft help to keep the operating system secure and up to date.
How to Fix the 0x80072AF9 Windows Error Code - FAQ
Installing the update in Tablet Mode is one of the methods to fix the 0x80072AF9 Windows error code.
Microsoft Windows is a collection of proprietary graphical operating systems developed and marketed by Microsoft. It consists of various families, each designed for specific sectors of the computing industry, such as consumers, servers, and embedded systems.
The first version of Windows was released on November 20, 1985. It was introduced as a graphical operating system shell for MS-DOS, in response to the increasing demand for graphical user interfaces (GUIs).
Windows is currently the most popular desktop operating system worldwide, holding a market share of 75% as of April 2022, according to StatCounter.
While Windows leads the desktop market, it is not the most widely used operating system when considering both mobile and desktop platforms. Android has experienced significant growth and has surpassed Windows in terms of overall usage.