What is WU-0x80070005?
WU-0x80070005 is a medium-severity Windows operating system problem. Windows cannot check for or install updates. Error code: 0x80070005. The usual suspects are corrupt SoftwareDistribution folder and stopped BITS service. See the troubleshooting steps below for the fix.
Common Causes
- Corrupt SoftwareDistribution folder
- Stopped BITS service
- Error connecting to server
Step-by-Step Fix Guide
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1
Restart Windows Update
Begin with Restart Windows Update; it's the step that resolves WU-0x80070005 for the largest share of reported cases.
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2
Clear the update cache
Should the issue continue afterward, the remaining steps are there to cover the less common windows instability scenarios.
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3
Run the WU Troubleshooter
Try "Run the WU Troubleshooter" next if the issue persists — it addresses a secondary cause.
Commands & Diagnostics
net stop wuauserv
net stop bits
ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
Frequently Asked Questions
WU-0x80070005 is most often triggered by corrupt SoftwareDistribution folder. Other reports point to stopped BITS service and error connecting to server as contributing factors.
Try "Restart Windows Update" first — it resolves most WU-0x80070005 cases on its own. Only work through the rest of the guide above if it comes back.
As a medium-severity issue, WU-0x80070005 is more of a stability annoyance than a hardware risk — the steps above should clear it up.
You shouldn't need to. Work through the guide above first — a reinstall is only worth considering if none of those steps help.
Sometimes. Microsoft regularly releases patches that fix known BSOD triggers including WU-0x80070005. Make sure Windows is fully up to date via Settings → Windows Update before attempting more advanced fixes.
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