0x80073701MediumWindows Update could not install a required component
What this error means
This code usually appears when Windows Update cannot install a system component it needs to finish an update. It often shows up during a normal update, a cumulative update, or a feature update, and it may repeat even after you try again. In many cases, the update files are incomplete, Windows system files are damaged, or another update is already stuck in the background.
Common causes
- 1Windows system files are missing or damaged
- 2An earlier update did not finish properly
- 3There is not enough free disk space for the update
- 4A temporary update file is corrupted
- 5Security software or another background process is interfering with Windows Update
How to fix it
- Restart your PC and try the update again. A simple restart can clear a stuck update process and let Windows finish what it started.
- Make sure you have enough free space. If your drive is nearly full, remove unneeded files, empty the Recycle Bin, and try again. Windows updates often need extra temporary space to unpack files.
- Run Windows Update again from Settings. Open
Settings, go toWindows Update, and selectCheck for updates. If the same update fails, note the update name so you can look for it later. - Use Windows’ built-in repair tools for system files. Run System File Checker and DISM from an elevated Command Prompt or Windows Terminal. These tools can repair missing or damaged Windows components that commonly trigger 0x80073701.
- Clear out temporary update files. If the update keeps failing, old cached files may be blocking it. Use Windows’ storage cleanup options or a trusted cleanup method to remove temporary files, then try Windows Update again.
- Temporarily disable third-party security software if you use it. Some antivirus or cleanup tools can interfere with updates. Turn them off only long enough to test the update, then turn them back on right away.
- If the update still fails, try the Windows Update troubleshooter or contact support. Repeated failures can mean the update package is damaged or the Windows component store needs deeper repair.
Recommended fixes
Restart your device
A restart clears temporary state that often causes transient errors.
- Save your work and close open apps.
- Restart the device from the power menu.
- Reproduce the issue to check whether it persists.
Install Windows updates
- Open Settings > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates and install everything available.
- Restart if prompted.
Run System File Checker and DISM
- Open Command Prompt as administrator.
- Run
sfc /scannowand let it complete. - Then run
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth. - Restart your PC.
Free up disk space
- Empty the Recycle Bin / Trash.
- Remove large files and apps you no longer use.
- Aim to keep at least 10% of the drive free.
Clear temporary files (Windows)
- Press Win+R, type
%temp%, and press Enter. - Delete the contents of the Temp folder.
- Run Disk Cleanup for a deeper clean.
Contact Quickfix support
If the issue persists after trying these steps, reach out so we can help.
Visit the contact page and include your scan report code.
When to seek help
Seek professional help if the code keeps returning after a restart, free-space cleanup, and system-file repair, or if Windows Update is failing for several different updates. You should also get help sooner if the PC is unusually slow, crashes, or shows other signs of system file damage. If this is a work device, contact your IT team before making deeper changes.
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