The Windows update error 0x8024ce0e can prevent critical security patches and new features from installing on your PC. This error typically occurs due to issues like weak internet connections, low disk space, or conflicts with external devices. Fortunately, there are several effective ways to troubleshoot and resolve this problem.
Step 1: Pause and resume Windows updates. This simple trick often clears up temporary glitches in the update process.
Open the Windows Settings app and navigate to Windows Update. Click “Pause updates for 7 days”. Restart your computer, then return to the Windows Update page and click “Resume updates”. Try running Windows Update again to see if the error is resolved.
Step 2: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter. This built-in tool can automatically detect and fix many common update issues.
Open Windows Settings and go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters. Locate Windows Update in the list and click “Run”. Follow the on-screen prompts and allow the troubleshooter to make any recommended fixes.
Step 3: Check your internet connection. A weak or unstable connection can interrupt the update download process.
Run a speed test on your internet connection. If speeds are lower than expected, try resetting your router or connecting your PC directly to the modem with an Ethernet cable. Once you have a stable connection, attempt the Windows update again.
Step 4: Free up disk space. Windows updates require adequate free space on your system drive to download and install properly.
Open File Explorer and right-click on your C: drive. Select Properties to view available disk space. If you’re running low, use the built-in Disk Cleanup tool (search for it in the Start menu) to remove unnecessary files. Aim for at least 20GB of free space before attempting updates again.
Step 5: Disconnect external hardware. Sometimes, connected devices can interfere with the update process.
Unplug any external hard drives, USB devices, printers, or other peripherals from your PC. Leave only your mouse and keyboard connected. Attempt to run Windows Update again with minimal devices attached.
Step 6: Reset the Software Distribution folder. This folder stores temporary update files and can sometimes become corrupted.
Open Command Prompt as an administrator (right-click the Start button and select “Windows Terminal (Admin)”). Enter the following commands, pressing Enter after each line:
net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptSvc
net stop bits
net stop msiserver
Ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
net start wuauserv
net start cryptSvc
net start bits
net start msiserver
These commands stop update-related services, rename the potentially problematic folder, and restart the services. Try running Windows Update again after completing this process.
If you’re still encountering the 0x8024ce0e error after trying these methods, consider performing a clean boot of Windows to eliminate potential software conflicts. As a last resort, you may need to use the Windows Media Creation Tool to perform an in-place upgrade, which can resolve stubborn update issues while preserving your files and most settings.