Error code 0x80072f8f – 0x20000 is a common issue faced by Windows users while upgrading their operating system or using the Media Creation Tool.
This error occurs due to various reasons, such as incorrect date and time settings, outdated software, conflicting programs, or even corrupt system files. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss various solutions to fix the error code 0x80072f8f – 0x20000 in a step-by-step manner.
Solution 1: Install Missing Update
If you receive error code 0x80072f8f – 0x20000 while upgrading to Windows 10, it may be due to a missing update. To install the missing update, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + I to open Settings.
- Click on Update & Security.
- Click on Check for updates.
- Install any pending updates.
- Restart your PC and try to upgrade again.
Solution 2: Enable TLS 1.1 and TLS 1.2
Enabling TLS 1.1 and TLS 1.2 can fix the error code 0x80072f8f – 0x20000 caused by outdated software. To enable these protocols, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Type “regedit” and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
- Go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Internet Settings\WinHttp.
- Right-click on the WinHttp key and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.
- Name the new value “DefaultSecureProtocols” and press Enter.
- Double-click on the DefaultSecureProtocols value and change the value data to “800” (without quotes).
- Click OK and exit the Registry Editor.
- Restart your PC and try to upgrade again.
Solution 3: Disable Third-Party Security Software
Some third-party security software can interfere with the upgrade process and cause error code 0x80072f8f – 0x20000. To disable such software, follow these steps:
- Press the Ctrl + Shift + Esc keys to open the Task Manager.
- Click on the Processes tab and look for any third-party security software processes.
- Right-click on each process and select End task.
- Disable the security software completely.
- Restart your PC and try to upgrade again.
Solution 4: Delete Files in the SoftwareDistribution Folder
Deleting the contents of the SoftwareDistribution folder can fix the error code 0x80072f8f – 0x20000 caused by corrupt system files. To delete the contents of the SoftwareDistribution folder, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Type “services.msc” and press Enter to open the Services window.
- Scroll down and find the Windows Update service.
- Right-click on the service and select Stop.
- Open File Explorer and go to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution.
- Select all files and folders in the SoftwareDistribution folder and press Delete.
- Go back to the Services window and right-click on the Windows Update service.
- Select Start.
- Restart your PC and try to upgrade again.
Solution 5: Edit the Registry
Editing the registry can fix the error code 0x80072f8f – 0x20000 caused by corrupt system files. To edit the registry, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Type “regedit” and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
- Go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\SystemCertificates\AuthRoot.
- Right-click on the AuthRoot key and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.
- Name the new value “DisableRootAutoUpdate” and press Enter.
- Double-click on the DisableRootAutoUpdate value and change the value data to “0” (without quotes).
- Click OK and exit the Registry Editor.
- Restart your PC and try to upgrade again.
Solution 6: Reset Windows Update Components
Resetting Windows Update Components can fix the error code 0x80072f8f – 0x20000 caused by corrupt system files. To reset Windows Update Components, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + X and select Command Prompt (Admin).
- Type the following commands and press Enter after each one:
[net stop wuauserv]
[net stop cryptSvc]
[net stop bits]
[net stop msiserver]
- Type the following commands and press Enter after each one:
[ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old]
[ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old]
- Type the following commands and press Enter after each one:
[net start wuauserv]
[net start cryptSvc]
[net start bits]
[net start msiserver]
- Exit the Command Prompt and restart your PC.
Solution 7: Restart Windows Services
Restarting Windows services can fix the error code 0x80072f8f – 0x20000 caused by conflicting programs. To restart Windows services, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Type “services.msc” and press Enter to open the Services window.
- Scroll down and find the following services:
Background Intelligent Transfer Service
Cryptographic Services
Windows Update
- Right-click on each service and select Stop.
- Restart your PC.
- Open the Services window again and right-click on each service.
- Select Start.
Solution 8: Reset Windows
Resetting Windows can fix the error code 0x80072f8f – 0x20000 caused by various issues. However, resetting Windows will delete all your files and apps, so make sure to back up your data before proceeding. To reset Windows, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + I to open Settings.
- Click on Update & Security.
- Click on Recovery.
- Click on Get Started under Reset this PC.
- Select either Keep my files or Remove everything.
- Follow the on screen instructions to reset Windows.
Conclusion
Error code 0x80072f8f – 0x20000 can be frustrating and prevent you from updating or upgrading Windows. However, with the solutions provided in this article, you can fix the error and enjoy the latest features and security updates from Microsoft. Make sure to back up your data before resetting Windows and follow the steps carefully to avoid any further issues. With patience and persistence, you can overcome this error and keep your PC running smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is error code 0x80072f8f – 0x20000?
Error code 0x80072f8f – 0x20000 is an error that occurs when upgrading to Windows 10 or updating Windows. It is usually caused by issues with the Windows Update service or corrupt system files.
How do I fix error code 0x80072f8f – 0x20000?
There are several solutions to fix error code 0x80072f8f – 0x20000, including:
- Installing missing updates
- Enabling TLS 1.1 and 1.2
- Disabling third-party security software
- Clearing the SoftwareDistribution folder
- Editing the registry
- Resetting Windows Update components
- Restarting Windows services
- Resetting Windows
Why do error codes happen?
Error codes happen due to various reasons, including software or hardware issues, corrupt system files, conflicting programs, or outdated drivers.
Can my internet settings cause error codes?
Yes, internet settings can cause error codes, especially when updating or upgrading Windows. Make sure your internet connection is stable and try disabling your antivirus or firewall temporarily.
