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Windows Update shows a network failure error when your PC cannot reach or stay connected to Microsoft’s update servers, even if web browsing seems to work. You may see messages such as “There were problems installing some updates” or “We couldn’t connect to the update service”, often with a code like 0x8024402c or 0x80072ee2. This page explains the common causes and walks you through the fixes in order.

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Common network error codes

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Why the error happens

  • Unstable or slow internet: Large update downloads time out on weak Wi-Fi or mobile hotspots.
  • DNS problems: Your PC cannot resolve Microsoft’s update server addresses.
  • Proxy or VPN settings: A proxy, VPN, or leftover proxy configuration redirects or blocks update traffic.
  • Firewall or antivirus: Security software blocks the Windows Update service from connecting.
  • Wrong date and time: Secure connections fail when the system clock is off.
  • Metered connection: Windows pauses some downloads on connections marked as metered.
  • Corrupted update cache: Damaged files in the update folder cause repeated download failures.
Retry Windows Update after each fix. Many network errors are temporary and clear up after a restart or a few minutes on a stable connection.

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Fix 1: Check your internet connection

1

Restart your router and PC

Turn off your router for 30 seconds, turn it back on, then restart your PC.
2

Use a stable connection

Switch to a wired Ethernet connection or a stronger Wi-Fi network if possible.
3

Turn off metered connection

Go to Settings > Network & internet, select your connection, and turn off Metered connection.

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Fix 2: Disconnect VPN and reset proxy settings

Disconnect any VPN, then go to Settings > Network & internet > Proxy and turn off Use a proxy server unless your organization requires it. To clear the system proxy used by Windows services, open Command Prompt as administrator and run:
Command Prompt

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Fix 3: Flush DNS and reset the network stack

Open Command Prompt as administrator and run these commands one at a time:
Command Prompt
Restart your PC after the commands finish.

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Fix 4: Change your DNS server

If your internet provider’s DNS is unreliable, switch to a public DNS server.
1

Open adapter settings

Go to Settings > Network & internet, select your connection, and click Edit next to DNS server assignment.
2

Set the DNS manually

Choose Manual, turn on IPv4, and enter a public DNS such as 8.8.8.8 (preferred) and 1.1.1.1 (alternate).
3

Save and retry

Click Save, then check for updates again.

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Fix 5: Check the date and time

Go to Settings > Time & language > Date & time, turn on Set time automatically, and click Sync now.

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Fix 6: Allow Windows Update through your firewall and antivirus

Temporarily turn off third-party antivirus or firewall software and retry Windows Update. If the update works, add an exception for Windows Update in that software, then turn protection back on.
Always re-enable your security software after testing.

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Fix 7: Run the troubleshooters

  • Windows 11: Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters, then run Windows Update and Network and Internet.
  • Windows 10: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters, then run Windows Update and Internet Connections.

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Fix 8: Reset Windows Update components

If downloads keep failing, clear the update cache. Open Command Prompt as administrator and run:
Command Prompt

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Frequently asked questions

Browsers and Windows Update can use different network settings. A leftover system proxy, a DNS problem, or a firewall rule can block only the update service. Fixes 2, 3, and 6 address this.
Your organization may route updates through its own server or block Microsoft’s servers. Contact your IT administrator before changing proxy or DNS settings.
Yes. Search for the update’s KB number in the Microsoft Update Catalog, download the package, and run it manually.

Fix 0x80070422

Fix Windows Update errors caused by disabled services.

Fix 0x80070005

Fix access denied errors in updates and installs.