Fix Windows Update Error Code 8E5E03FA

Rename a folder in System32 directory

I have Windows Vista installed on a virtual PC and recently I’ve not been able to install any Windows updates because I keep getting an error saying that the update failed. Taking a look at the error, it says the following:

Not very helpful! The event viewer does not show anything either that helps to determine what the problem is. Eventually, I found a post on some forum that helped me solve this. Apparently, one or more of the updates or patches becomes corrupt and therefore stops any update from being installed.

In order to fix this and get your updates installing again, you have to rename a particular folder in yourSystem32directory.

Fix Error Code 8E5E03FA

Step 1: First click onStart, thenPrograms, thenAccessories, and right-click onCommand Promptand chooseRun As. Make sure to enter an Administrator account.

Step 2: At the command prompt, type innet stop cryptsvcand wait for the service to stop.

Step 3: TypeCD\and press Enter. Now typeCD windows\system32and hit Enter.

Step 4: Now typeren catroot2 catroot3and pressEnter. Catroot2 is where all the Windows certified drivers for the successful download and installation of Windows Updates are stored.

When these files get corrupted, Windows Update can fail. However, if you delete it, then Windows will re-create the folder using the protected system files, which are not corrupt, and therefore hopefully fix your problem.

So if you have not been able to install any Windows updates on Windows XP or Windows Vista, try the above method of renaming the catroot2 folder. Do not simply delete what’s inside the folder as this will not work.

Also, if you get anAccess is Deniederror when trying to delete catroot2, you have to make sure you are running the command prompt as an Administrator. You can also try to restart the computer in safe mode and then try to rename the folder.

Problems or questions? Post a comment and I will try to help! Enjoy!

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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