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How to Fix Windows 11 Update Error 0x80248007 (January 2026 Guide)

Are you seeing the "Download error - 0x80248007" while trying to install the latest Windows 11 updates today? Since the January 24, 2026, security patch rollout, thousands of users in the US, UK, and Canada have reported that their update progress fails with this frustrating code. If your computer cannot connect to the update server, here is the verified fix to restore your Windows Update service immediately.

​What Causes Error 0x80248007?

​The 0x80248007 error typically indicates that the Windows Update service is missing a required file or is unable to verify the update package's digital signature. In early 2026, this has been linked to a cache corruption in the SoftwareDistribution folder caused by the latest cumulative updates. If left unfixed, your system will remain unpatched and vulnerable to security threats.

​4 Quick Steps to Fix Error 0x80248007

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

  1. ​Restart Windows Installer Service: * Press Win + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
    • ​Scroll down to Windows Installer, right-click it, and select Start (or Restart). This often resolves the "missing file" logic.
  2. ​Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter: * Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
    • ​Click Run next to Windows Update. This built-in tool in the 2026 build is now more efficient at resetting service tokens.
  3. ​Delete the Update Cache (SoftwareDistribution): * Open Command Prompt as Administrator and type net stop wuauserv.
    • ​Navigate to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download and delete all files inside.
    • ​Go back to Command Prompt and type net start wuauserv.
  4. ​Repair System Files (SFC & DISM): * In the Admin Command Prompt, run sfc /scannow.
    • ​Once finished, run DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth. This ensures your Windows image is healthy and ready for the 2026 patches.

​Official Microsoft Status

​Microsoft has acknowledged that certain server-side inconsistencies may cause download delays for the January patch. If the 0x80248007 error persists after these fixes, we recommend manually downloading the update from the Microsoft Update Catalog using your specific KB number.