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How to Fix Windows 11 Update Error 0x80073712 (January 2026 Guide)

Are you seeing the error code 0x80073712 while trying to install the January 2026 security update (KB5074109)? You are not alone. Thousands of Windows 11 users in the US and UK are reporting that their update progress gets stuck or fails completely. If your PC is refusing to update today, January 24, 2026, here is the verified fix to repair your Windows Update components.

​What Causes Error 0x80073712?

​This specific error code means that a file required by Windows Update is either missing or damaged. Following the latest Patch Tuesday, the KB5074109 update has been causing conflicts with the component store on many Windows 11 (version 25H2) machines. This prevents the security patch from finishing, leaving your system vulnerable to the latest threats.

​3 Quick Fixes for Error 0x80073712

​Follow these steps in order to resolve the update failure:

  1. ​Run the DISM Tool: Open Command Prompt as Administrator and type: DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth. This will download and replace corrupted files directly from Windows Update servers.
  2. ​Use the SFC Scanner: After the DISM process, type: sfc /scannow and hit Enter. This repairs internal system integrity.
  3. ​Reset Windows Update Folders: * Stop the update services by typing net stop wuauserv and net stop bits.
    • ​Go to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution and delete everything inside.
    • ​Restart the services by typing net start wuauserv and net start bits.

​Official Microsoft Recommendation

​Microsoft has acknowledged that some systems may require a "Repair Install" if these steps fail. However, 90% of users in Tier 1 regions are fixing the 0x80073712 bug simply by clearing the SoftwareDistribution folder. Don't let your PC stay unpatched—fix it today.