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How to Fix Windows Error 0x80070020 After Update

Experiencing Windows error 0x80070020 after an update? This article will help you diagnose the issue and guide you through disabling the conflicting applications to fix it.

3 min read

Error code 0x80070020 indicates a file access conflict after a Windows update, typically caused by third-party applications interfering with the update process. This issue can prevent updates from completing, but you can resolve it by identifying and temporarily disabling the conflicting applications. The following steps will guide you to diagnose and fix the error effectively.

What does error 0x80070020 mean?

Error 0x80070020 usually signifies that an application is blocking access to a file required by Windows during the update process. This often occurs when antivirus software, backup utilities, or other third-party applications are utilizing system files or otherwise interfering with the update.

How to safely check for the cause

To identify potential applications causing the conflict, use the Task Manager:

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
  1. Click on the 'Processes' tab to view all running applications.
  1. Look for any antivirus programs, backup solutions, or other software that may be using system resources.
  1. Make a note of these applications, as you may need to disable them temporarily.
The Task Manager interface open on a Windows 11 laptop, displaying active processes.

Steps to fix the error

To resolve error 0x80070020, follow these steps:

  1. Close all running applications to minimize interference.
  1. In the Task Manager, identify and select any antivirus or backup software you noted earlier.
  1. Click 'End Task' to stop these applications temporarily.
  1. Open Windows Settings by pressing Windows + I.
  1. Navigate to 'Update & Security' and click on 'Troubleshoot'.
  1. Select 'Additional troubleshooters' and then click on 'Windows Update'.
  1. Click 'Run the troubleshooter' and follow the prompts to detect and fix issues related to Windows Update.

How to verify the fix

After completing the above steps, verify if the error has been resolved:

  1. Return to 'Update & Security' in Windows Settings.
  1. Click on 'Check for updates' to see if the system can now download and install updates without encountering error 0x80070020.
  1. If updates are installed successfully, the issue is resolved. If the error persists, consider revisiting the conflicting applications or checking for other underlying issues.
The Windows 11 settings screen open to the update section, with the 'Check for updates' button visible.

Tips to prevent this error in the future

To reduce the chances of encountering error 0x80070020 again, consider these practices:

  • Regularly update your software, particularly antivirus and backup programs, to ensure compatibility with Windows updates.
  • Temporarily disable all non-essential applications before starting a Windows update.
  • Schedule updates for times when other resource-intensive applications are not running.
  • Utilize built-in Windows tools to manage and troubleshoot update issues.

Conclusion

If you continue to face issues with Windows updates after following these steps, consider reaching out to Microsoft support or consulting official forums for further assistance.