8 Ways to Fix Install Error 0x80070103 on Windows 11

Encountering installation errors on Windows 11 can be frustrating. One common issue is the install error 0x80070103, which can impede updating. This guide will help fix the error on your PC.

This error indicates that the update is incompatible with the current device driver version. The primary cause is a mismatch between the update requirements and the existing driver versions, which prevents seamless integration of updates. Follow these steps to resolve the issue.

1. Pause and Resume Updates

Windows update install error 0x80070103 typically occurs during updates when incompatible drivers or conflicting software is detected. To resolve this, pause and resume the updates to clear glitches and force a fresh download of update files. Follow these steps:

1. In the taskbar, click the Windows icon and type “Settings” in the search box. Then, click Open.

Step 2: Go to the Windows Update tab and click ‘Pause for 1 week’ next to Pause updates.

Step 3: Wait a few seconds and click the Resume update button.

Windows will check for an update. Wait for it to finish. Once done, check if the problem is resolved.

2. Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

The Windows Update Troubleshooter is a built-in tool that detects and fixes common issues with the update process. It scans for problems like corrupted system files, misconfigurations, or conflicts with other software, and applies solutions. Additionally, it can clear the Windows Update cache, allowing for a fresh start. To run the troubleshooter, follow these steps: Step 1: Launch the Settings app by pressing Windows + I.

Step 2: Choose System from the left sidebar, then go to Troubleshoot on the right.

Step 3: Select Other troubleshooters from the options.

Step 4: Click the Run button next to Windows Update.

3. Install Optional Windows Updates

When drivers are outdated or incompatible, they can lead to errors and issues, such as install error 0x80070103 on Windows 11. By installing optional updates, you can update your system drivers, addressing any conflicts or inconsistencies causing the error.

This approach resolves the issue and enhances the stability and performance of the Windows 11 operating system. Here’s how:

Step 1: Access the Settings app by pressing Windows + I on your keyboard.

Step 2: Select Windows Update, choose Advanced options.

Step 3: Click on Optional updates. Check for available updates and download them if found.

4. Run SMC and DICM Scan

Running an SFC and DICM scan can effectively help with the error 0x80070103 on Windows. The SFC scan thoroughly scans crucial system files, detecting and repairing corruption. Follow these steps to run an SFC scan:

Step 1: Press the Windows + S key, type Command Prompt in the search box, and click Run as administrator. Click Yes when prompted.

Note: Refer to our article on how to open Command Prompt.

Step 2: Enter the command below and execute it by pressing the Enter key on your keyboard.

sfc /scannow

The DISM scan primarily focuses on the Windows image, addressing system-wide issues. Here’s how you can perform it:

Step 1: Open Command Prompt as an administrator.

Step 2: Type the command and press Enter: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

5. Flush the SoftwareDistribution Folder

Flushing the SoftwareDistribution folder can troubleshoot issues with the update process, promoting a stable and error-free Windows 11 environment.

The SoftwareDistribution folder stores temporary files for Windows Update installations. Refreshing the repository ensures the system downloads and installs the latest updates without conflicts. Here are the steps to flush the SoftwareDistribution folder:

1. Open the Run dialog box by pressing Windows + R keys. Type “cmd” and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to open Command Prompt with administrative privileges.

Step 2: Write the command below in the cmd window to stop the Windows Update service and press Enter. net stop wuauserv

Step 3: Stop the Background Intelligent Transfer Service by typing the command and hitting Enter.

net stop bits

Step 4: Close the cmd window by typing exit and pressing Enter.

Step 5: Click the Windows icon in the taskbar. Write “File Explorer” in the search box and click Open.

Step 6: Paste the command in the address bar.

C:\Windows

Step 7: Locate and select the SoftwareDistribution folder, then delete it. When prompted, click Continue.

Step 8: Reopen Command Prompt in administrator mode.

Step 9: Restart the Windows Update service by entering the command “net start wuauserv”.

Step 10: Type the command in the cmd window to restart the Background Intelligent Transfer Service. Press Enter to run it.

Step 11: Close the cmd window and restart your Windows device to save changes.

6. Hide the Windows Update

Hiding the Windows Update is a straightforward approach. By preventing the installation of the conflicting driver, you can maintain system stability and functionality, mitigating the Windows update installation error 0x80070103.

Step 1: Press the Windows + S key, type PowerShell, and click Run as administrator. Grant permission to make changes to the device by selecting Yes in the pop-up box.

Step 2: Install the Windows Update Module by entering the command below:

Install-Module PSWindowsUpdate

Step 3: Confirm the command by pressing Y, followed by an A on your keyboard.

Note: The process may take some time, so be patient.

Step 4: Check Windows Updates by typing the command below and hitting Enter. Get-WindowsUpdate

Step 5: Hide the Windows update by entering the command and pressing Enter.

Hide-WindowsUpdate -KBArticleID KBNUMBER

Note: Replace KBNUMBER with the update number next to the Windows update you want to hide.

Step 6: Alternatively, hide the update using the title. Enter the command and hit Enter.

Hide-WindowsUpdate -Title “KBTITLE”

Note: Replace KBTITLE with the update title you want to hide.

8. Manually Install the Update

Manually downloading and installing the update package ensures you have all the necessary files. It also checks if they are correctly placed and configured, addressing any compatibility issues that might have triggered the error. Follow the steps below to do so:

Step 1: Press the Windows icon, type Settings, and select Open.

Step 2: Go to Windows Update and check the Update history for the failed installed update.

Step 3: Copy the update number and go to the Microsoft Update Catalog. Step 4: Search for the update, download and install it on your device.

Windows Updating

You can fix the install error 0x80070103 on Windows 11 with the troubleshooting methods mentioned above. If the problem persists, you can reset the Windows update components to clear the update cache and restart the service.