FAQ
TL;DR: One critical service failed (wuauserv); "The specified file could not be found." Fix error 0x80080005 and missing Defender by resetting Windows Update, then an in‑place repair that keeps files/apps if needed. For Windows 10 users stuck on that message. [Elektroda, Kolobos, post #18983050]
Why it matters: Unpatched systems and a disabled Defender expose you to exploits; restoring updates quickly reduces risk without wiping data.
Quick Facts
- 0x80080005 maps to COM error “Server execution failed” (HRESULT CO_E_SERVER_EXEC_FAILURE). [*COM Error Codes (HRESULTS)*]
- Windows 10 version 1909 reached end of service on 2021‑05‑11; upgrade to stay supported. [*Windows 10 release information*]
- An in‑place upgrade using Windows 10 Setup can keep personal files and apps when you choose that option. [*Download Windows 10*]
- Resetting Windows Update cache means stopping services, clearing SoftwareDistribution, then restarting services. [*Reset Windows Update components*]
- Installing another antivirus turns off Microsoft Defender Antivirus automatically. [*Microsoft Defender Antivirus compatibility*]
What does “Your device is missing important security and quality fixes” mean?
Windows couldn’t apply the latest cumulative updates. Common causes include a stuck Windows Update service, damaged update cache, or system file corruption. Start with the Windows Update troubleshooter, then reset the update components if needed. Finish by retrying Windows Update from Settings. [Troubleshoot problems updating Windows]
How do I fix Windows Update error 0x80080005 on Windows 10?
Run the Windows Update troubleshooter, reboot, and try again. If it persists, reset the update components and ensure services like Windows Update and BITS are running. As a final step, perform an in‑place repair upgrade to refresh components without data loss. [Troubleshoot problems updating Windows]
Is it safe to clear the SoftwareDistribution folder, and how do I do it?
Yes—this clears the update cache. Stop the Windows Update services first, delete the folder contents, then restart services and reboot. Windows recreates what it needs on the next check. [Reset Windows Update components]
- Stop Windows Update services.
- Delete C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution contents.
- Restart services, then reboot and check for updates. [Reset Windows Update components]
How can I repair without losing files and apps (in‑place upgrade)?
Create Windows 10 installation media and run Setup from within Windows. Choose “Keep personal files and apps” when prompted. As one expert noted, “update by running the installer file from the running system (selecting ‘keep files and settings’).” [Elektroda, Matuzalem, post #18981187]
Why did Microsoft Defender disappear or turn off?
Windows turns off Microsoft Defender Antivirus if it detects another antivirus product. Also check Windows Security settings, service status, and organizational policies. Remove conflicting antivirus or re‑enable Defender from Windows Security if it’s your primary protection. [Microsoft Defender Antivirus compatibility]
How do I check and restart the Windows Update service (wuauserv)?
Open Services, find Windows Update, and set Startup type to Automatic. Start the service if stopped. Or use an elevated command prompt to stop and start services as part of a reset. Then retry Windows Update. [Reset Windows Update components]
My logs show “Broken WU service: The specified file could not be found.” What now?
This indicates a damaged Windows Update service configuration. Repair options include resetting update components and performing an in‑place repair upgrade to rebuild missing files and service registrations without wiping data. [Elektroda, Kolobos, post #18983050]
Where do I download the latest Windows 10 update for a 1909 device?
Use Microsoft’s Download Windows 10 page. Choose “Upgrade this PC now” for an in‑place upgrade, or create media. If creating media, use a USB flash drive with at least 8 GB capacity. [Download Windows 10]
Will an in‑place upgrade wipe my files or apps?
No—when running Setup from within Windows, choose “Keep personal files and apps.” Always back up important data first, then proceed. This repair path refreshes Windows components while preserving your environment. [Download Windows 10]
Windows Update just keeps checking forever. What should I try next?
Run the Windows Update troubleshooter, reboot, and verify system time. Reset update components, ensure BITS and Windows Update services run, and retry. Temporarily disable VPNs or metered connections, then initiate the update again. [Troubleshoot problems updating Windows]
How do I use DISM to repair Windows Update corruption?
Open an elevated Command Prompt and run: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth. Wait for completion, then restart and re‑check updates. If damage remains, follow with an in‑place upgrade to replace corrupted components. [Repair a Windows Image]
Edge case: Updates still fail after all resets and a repair install—why?
Managed devices can block updates via Group Policy, WSUS, or Windows Update for Business. If policies enforce deferrals or service disablement, local fixes won’t apply. Contact IT or adjust policy to allow servicing. [Windows Update for Business overview]
Is Windows 10 version 1909 still supported?
No. Version 1909 reached end of service on May 11, 2021. Move to a supported Windows 10 release to keep receiving monthly security and quality updates. [Windows 10 release information]
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