Fix the Windows Update Error 0x800f0984 on Windows 10/11

In May, Microsoft released the KB4556799 patch update for Windows 10 version 1903 and 1909. This update brings significant features and enhancements, including important security patches. However, many users have reported difficulties in installing the update since its release.

If you’re also facing the Windows Update Error Code 0x800f0984, this article is designed to help solve the problem.

What Causes the Windows Update Error 0x800f0984

When this issue occurs, affected users receive the following message:

“There were some problems installing updates, but we’ll try again later. If you keep seeing this and want to search the web or contact support for information, this may help (0x800f0984)”.

Several causes generate the Windows Update Error Code 0x800f0984. Since the factors leading to this issue vary, we have also compiled various solutions that you can apply. The gravity of this problem range from minor to severe, with some fixable by just running the Windows Update troubleshooter. Meanwhile, others demanding a Cloud reset.

Here are some of the possible causes to the Windows 10/11 Update Error Code 0x800f0984:

• Discrepancies within the Windows Update components
• Missing or corrupt Operating System files
• Software conflicts caused by a running or installed program in Windows 10/11
• In-depth system corruption due to virus infection

Each of these factors requires a different approach to solving the issue. However, if you’re not sure of the actual factor responsible for the Windows Update Error Code 0x800f0984, you can apply these solutions chronologically.

What to Do About the Error Code 0x800f0984 on Windows 10/11?

Note that we have used simple terms to ensure that even non-technical PC users can follow the process precisely. To deal with the Windows Update Error Code 0x800f0984 issue, you can use the following solutions:

Solution #1: Launch the Windows Update Troubleshooter

If you’re facing any issues related to Windows Update, this is the first approach to finding the solution. This is an automated solution that doesn’t require much of your input. Windows Update Troubleshooter is a useful in-built Windows 10/11 utility developed by Microsoft.

The tool is designed to scan and detect any issues that may be the cause of system failure to download and install any pending Windows Updates. The tool is capable of clearing related temporary files, erase SoftwareDistribution folder contents, and check Windows Update Services status. It can also reset or repair any damaged Windows Update components.

On your Windows 10/11, here is how you can launch Windows Update Troubleshooter:

1. Launch the system’s Settings app by simultaneously pressing the Windows + I keys.
2. Click on Updates and Security before selecting the Troubleshoot tab.
3. Now, under the Get up and running category, select Windows Update to begin resolving issues that prevent updating Windows.
4. Let the process complete and then restart the system for changes to take effect.

Solution #2: Launch System File Check (SFC)

Another useful utility from Microsoft which comes as a built-in Windows 10/11 tool is System File Checker. The utility is used parallel to Deployment Imaging and Servicing Management (DISM) tool. Both of the utilities do the same task using different approaches. SFC fetches fresh copies to replace or repair damaged/missing OS files from a local cached Windows folder. DISM on the other hand downloads fresh copies from an online Microsoft server to replace missing or damaged ones.

To launch SFC utility here is how:

1. Launch Elevated Command Prompt by simultaneously pressing the Windows + R keys to bring up the Run dialog.
2. Type “cmd” (no quotes)+ in the search field and hit Ctrl + Shift + Enter keys simultaneously to run elevated Command prompt.
   If prompted by the User Account Control window, click on the Yes button to give admin privileges.
3. Now, inside the Elevated Command Prompt field, insert the following line and press the Enter key:
   sfc /scannow
4. The SFC utility will begin to scan for any issues. If problematic files are found, they will be replaced in the next system startup.
5. When done, you can reopen the Elevated Command Prompt field and this time, insert the following command line before hitting the Enter key to run DISM utility:
   Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
   Note that, for this procedure to work, your system must be connected to a stable Internet connection and it may take up to 15 minutes or more depending on how corrupt the system files are.
6. Once done, reboot the system for changes to take effect.

Solution #3: Run Windows Update Under Clean Boot

Clean Boot is a process used to launch the Windows OS utilizing the minimum set of resources which include drivers and programs. This approach helps prevent software conflicts that may occur during program installation, an update, or when running a particular program.

Note that there is a difference between Safe Mode and Clean Boot with the former engaging an extra mile to troubleshoot and diagnose advanced issues related to the Windows 10/11 system.

Here is how to launch the system under Clean Boot State:

1. On the Taskbar search field, type “MSConfig” (no quotes) and press the Enter key to launch System Configuration window.
2. Under the General tab, enter the Selective Startup field and uncheck the Load Startup Items box. Make sure the Load system services, as well as Use original boot configuration boxes, remain checked.
3. Now, go to the Service tab and check the box next to Hide all Microsoft services before clicking on Disable all.
4. Click Apply, followed by the OK button before restarting the machine.
5. In the next startup, Windows will load under Clean Boot State.
6. You may then try to install the pending Windows Updates without experiencing the Error Code 0x800f0984.

Solution #4: Execute a Cloud Reset

Reaching this point is a strong signal that you’re most likely dealing with an advanced sort of system corruption that can’t be conventionally resolved. In such a scenario, it’s best to execute Cloud Reset.

This solution lets you recover operating system files from the Cloud without having to use an ISO image. The earlier version of this feature required the user to use ISO if the system was damaged beyond repair. In contrast, the new feature is geared to withstand any level of system damage.

Here is how you can reset or reinstall Windows 10/11 Operating System through the Cloud:

1. Launch Windows 10/11 Settings by simultaneously pressing Windows + I keys.
2. Click on Update & Security before selecting the Recovery tab.
3. Under Reset this PC, click on the Get started button to initiate the process.
4. Choose the option Keep my files, and then click on Cloud download.
5. Finally, click on Reset.

Seeing that files can be corrupted due to a software virus it will save you a lot of trouble to install a trusted Anti-malware security tool. This will help keep your system clean by constantly running in the background fighting against any possible virus infiltration attempts.