Fix Windows 7 Update Error Code 0x80070422

Without security updates, you computer is at risk

Among the error codes users encounter in Windows 7, code 0x80070422 is fairly common. This error can occur when the startup service for Windows Update is set to anything except automatic. Learn how to fix error code 0x80070422 with a few clicks of the mouse.

Windows Update and Error Code 0x80070422

Windows Update can be a bit finicky when it comes to working the way it was designed to work. It doesn’t take much for something to be out of alignment and cause problems. Windows error code 0x80070422 refers to an inability of Windows 7 to startup the Windows Update service so your computer can connect to the update servers at Microsoft. The message accompanying the error code reads:

The frustrating part about this error is that everything with the update service can be working great one day and then cause errors the next. Don’t be too concerned if you get this error; it is very common. Luckily, a quick fix enables you to continue downloading and installing updates for Windows 7. You simply need to edit an option associated with the update service.

Fixing Windows 7 Update Error 0x80070422

Click onStartand typeAdminin theSearchbox. Press theEnterkey and Windows 7 opens theAdministrative Toolswindow. Click onServices.

You should now be looking at theServiceswindow. In the right hand pane, locate a service titledWindows Update. Right click on theWindows Updateservice and choosePropertiesfrom the menu.

You should now be looking at theWindows Update Properties (Local Computer)window. Click on theGeneraltab, locate an option labeledStartup Type, and note the current option setting. If the option is set toManualorDisabled, that is what’s causing the error. Set the option toAutomatic (Delayed Start).

However, the option may already be set to eitherAutomaticorAutomatic (Delayed Start). This can also be causing error 0x80070422. If you have the option set atAutomatic, set it toAutomatic (Delayed Start). Likewise, if it is set toAutomatic (Delayed Start), set it toAutomatic. When you make your selection, click theOKbutton.

Back on theServiceswindow, make sure theWindows Update StatusisStarted. If it is set toStarted, close the window and you are done. If it is set to anything exceptStarted, close the window and restart your computer.

Windows 7 error 0x80070422 occurs when the Window Update service is not set to start automatically. While disabled, the service cannot run and users of the PC cannot download updates to Windows 7 or updates to software installed on the computer. A quick option change to the Windows Update service fixes the error and allows Windows Update to continue working normally.

Keep in mind that the other option settings Manual and Disabled are not themselves the error. Some administrators prefer to use these settings for the Windows Update service to control how and whether users of a PC can initiate update downloads and installation. Most home users, however, should set the service to one of the automatic settings.

Founder of Help Desk Geek and managing editor. He began blogging in 2007 and quit his job in 2010 to blog full-time. He has over 15 years of industry experience in IT and holds several technical certifications.Read Aseem’s Full Bio

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Fix Windows 7 Update Error Code 0x80070422#

Windows Update and Error Code 0x80070422#

Fixing Windows 7 Update Error 0x80070422#