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0x800f020b Windows Update Error: Fixed
The activities of third-party apps can cause this issue
8 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Many users migrated to the Windows 11 operating system after its official unveiling. Windows 11 has the same base as the Windows 10 OS but brings somenifty features and changes, predominantly on the user interface.
Even after all these new features and changes, the one thing that remains constant, much like in older Windows versions, is the presence of bugs and errors.
Unfortunately, Windows users are not shielded from errors. Several users are experiencing different types of Windows update errors.
Just like other Windows update errors, this error 0x800f020b pops up without displaying any reason. It occurs when you try to update your PC.
This is where this guide comes into the picture. Because in this post, we will share with you some practical solutions you can apply and possibly fix the Windows update error 0x800f020b.
With that being said, let us jump right into it.
What is the Windows update error 0x800f020b?
As already mentioned, similar to other Windows update errors, the update error 0x800f020b doesn’t have any specific reason to pop up.
For some users, this error comes up when trying to update their Windows PC normally. Whereas for others, it shows up when they are trying to update their printers, especially Xerox and HP printers.
In most cases, users start experiencing this Windows 11 update error 0x800f020b due to already existing printer software, specificallyHPandXerox.
But some users have reported that they did not have any printers connected or printer software installed on their Windows 11 PC and still came across this issue.
In this guide, we will discuss the solutions that would help both users with the printer software installed on their PCs and users experiencing this problem out of the blue.
Why does Windows Update fail to install?
Windows Update fails to install because of broken or corrupt system files. This corruption can affect the files needed to install the update.
Also, it might be because you have not enabled the Windows Update service. This detailed guide showshow to fix the Windows Update error.
How can I fix the Windows 11 update error 0x800f020b on my PC?
1. Run the troubleshooter
For issues related to software or Windows updates on your PC, you can rely on the in-built Windows Troubleshooter. It lets you detect and possibly fix the error during the process.
It is easy to use, and the above steps explain everything clearly. So, before you go ahead with advanced solutions, it is better to run the Windows Troubleshooter and see if it can resolve the Windows 11 error 0x800f020b.
2. Clear Windows update cache
The above steps will help you clear all the cache files related to Windows Update. However, because of some corrupt files, it may conflict with the Windows update installation. As a result, Windows 11 update error 0x800f020b is displayed.
3. Clear temporary folder
4. Reconnect external devices
This error code 0x800f020b is mainly associated with printer devices that are externally connected. So, it would be better to troubleshoot the externally connected devices.
We suggest you disconnect your printers from your Windows 11 PC, wait for some time, and then reconnect them again.
You can also try restarting your Windows 11 PC before you again try to install Windows updates on your PC. Often, this trick helps fix this error. If this doesn’t help, hop on to the next solution below.
5. Download Windows 11 update manually
If the in-built Windows Updater is showing you errors even after trying all the above solutions, then you can try the option to install Windows 11 updates on your PC manually.
This method fixes not only this error code 0x800f020b but also other Windows update errors you may encounter.
6. Perform a clean boot
When your PC restarts, you will have a clean boot environment. You can check now if the Windows update is installed with no issues or not.
7. Use Show or hide updates
8. Stop the Print Spooler service
How can I fix the Windows Update error 0x800f020b on Windows 10?
The solutions we presented for Windows 11 can be used for Windows 10 as well, with very slight modifications. The steps are mostly the same.
Why is it necessary to download Windows 11 updates?
In short, you should keep your Windows 11 PC updated with the latest available update version. New updates bring new features and bug fixes that solve various underlying problems with the older version of the driver.
Windows automaticallychecks for new updated driversand updates for your copy of the operating system. Moreover, security updates are so important that they protect your PC from the latest viruses and malware.
However, there are optional updates that you shouldn’t worry about. As in our case, if the printer drivers are still troubling, you can disable them, as shown in solution 7.
There is no need to install a printer driver to use it. Instead, you can use your printer by attaching its USB cable to your PC and letting it detect it as an external device.
How do I force Windows 11 to update right now?
To force Windows 11 to update to the latest version, you might need to download theWindows 11 Installation Assistantfrom the official website.
Running this software will help to install your PC to the latest build available at the time. The software doesn’t need any particular process.
You need to download it and run it, and you need to confirm a few actions.
The windows 11 update error 0x800f020b can be frustrating, as it can stop you from installing essential updates. Thankfully, it is an error that can be fixed, as shown in this guide.
If you are facing the0x800703f9 update error on Windows 10/11, check our detailed guide to fix it quickly.
Let us know in the comments below which of the methods mentioned above helped you fix the Windows 11 update error 0x800f020b.
More about the topics:Windows Update
Vladimir Popescu
Being an artist his entire life while also playing handball at a professional level, Vladimir has also developed a passion for all things computer-related.
With an innate fascination for research and analysis, and realizing many other people share his passion for this subject, he delved into writing Windows-related articles, so other people can also benefit from the acquired information.
When not writing kick-ass articles, Vladimir likes to spend his time doing Crossfit and creating art.
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