Some update files are missing, Error 0x80070003 can occur on a Windows computer when running Windows Update, activating Windows Firewall or downloading from the Windows Store. In this article, we will talk about Windows Update error 0x80070003. When this occurs, it usually means that the Windows Update (WUAUSERV) is not started or Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS) cannot be started. The issue could also be with other supporting components for the Windows Update mechanism.

Some effective fixes to get rid of error code 0x80070003 for Windows Updates on Windows 11/10 would be:

The Windows Update Troubleshooter or Microsoft’s Online Windows Update Troubleshooter can be used to detect and fix any conflicts for Windows Updates automatically.

Spupdsvc.exe is a process file that comes under Microsoft Update RunOnce Service.  When an update becomes available for the computer, the process responsible for performing the upgrade is notified. Also, a RunOnce entry is added to the registry for spupdsvc.exe. The process is executed when the computer restarts, and the user logs on.

Open Command Prompt as an administrator to execute the following command:

It will replace the old configuration of Spupdsvc.exe with a fresh one. Try to rerun Windows Updates and check if your issue t is fixed now.

This method is all about deleting the contents of the SoftwareDistribution folder & reset the Catroot2 folder.

The SoftwareDistribution folder and the Catroot2 folder contain some temporary system files that are responsible for applying updates to a computer. They include data that support Windows Updates as well as installers for new components.

There are various Windows Services that help the functioning of different elements inside of the Windows 10 operating system. Therefore, you might need to check on the services that support Windows Updates.

Open the Windows Services Manager and locate the following services:

Open their Properties and ensure that their Startup type is as mentioned above against their name and that the Services are running. If not click on the Start button.

Open Command Prompt as an administrator and execute the following command:

It will run the System File Checker.

Reboot your computer after the scan has completed and run Windows Update.

Reset Windows Update component to default and see if that helps.

Run the DISM Tool to fix corrupted Windows Update files. If your Windows Update client is already broken, you will be required to use a running Windows installation as the repair source or use a Windows side-by-side folder from a network share, as the source of the files.

The update should be getting downloaded now!

Related: Fix Windows Backup or Restore failed error 0x80070003.