Fix Windows Update Error 0x80070005 (Access Denied) for Good
Independent guide — no official affiliation with the platforms mentioned.
Short answer
Error 0x80070005 means Windows Update can't access required folders. Fix it by running the Windows Update troubleshooter, resetting the SoftwareDistribution folder, then running SFC and DISM. Takes 10–15 minutes with no data loss.
01 — Step-by-step fix
Step-by-step fix
Run the Windows Update troubleshooter
Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters and click 'Run' next to Windows Update. Apply the automatic fixes.
Reset the SoftwareDistribution folder
Open Command Prompt as administrator and run these commands in order:
net stop wuauserv → net stop bits → ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old → net start wuauserv → net start bits
Repair system files
In the same admin window run 'sfc /scannow', then 'DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth'. DISM needs an internet connection.
Temporarily disable third-party antivirus
Some antivirus suites block access to Update files. Disable temporarily and retry the update.
Download the update manually
If the error persists, search the failing KB number at catalog.update.microsoft.com and install the package manually.
Tips
- Run all commands in the same elevated CMD window, in order.
- VPN or proxy connections increase Update errors — disable before retrying.
02 — Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Does 0x80070005 cause data loss?
No. It's a permission issue for update files; personal files are untouched. SoftwareDistribution only holds temporary downloads.
Can I delete the SoftwareDistribution.old folder?
Yes, after the issue is fixed it's safe to delete and frees disk space.
SFC found corrupt files — now what?
Run DISM, reboot and run SFC again. The second pass usually reports clean.
Links in this guide point to official platform pages. Steps may change with platform updates; check the page date.
03 — Related guides