The notorious Windows Update error 0x80070437 can be a real pain, especially when it blocks you from installing critical updates. Usually, this pops up with that annoying message about problems installing updates, and it’s not always obvious why it happens. From what’s been observed, it often comes down to service permissions or system services misbehaving — like the Windows Defender Firewall service acting up or being disabled. Fixing this can sometimes feel like a wild goose chase, but with a few targeted steps, it’s usually doable. This guide walks through some real, tried-and-true methods to hopefully clear out the root cause and get things back on track.
How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80070437
Enable and Properly Configure Windows Defender Firewall Service
This is the most common culprit. If the firewall service isn’t running or is misconfigured, Windows just throws a fit during updates. Especially on some setups where the service was disabled or got corrupted — Windows won’t let updates go through. Ensuring it’s running with correct permissions can make a big difference.
Why it helps: The Windows Defender Firewall service needs to be active for Windows Update to check permissions and download updates securely. If it’s disabled or under some permission lock, updates will fail with that error.
When it applies: If you notice your firewall showing as off or disabled, or if your update process keeps stalling with that error, give this a try.
What to expect: After following the steps, the firewall should be back up and running, and Windows Update will have a better shot at installing updates without saying “Error 0x80070437”.Sometimes, rebooting after this fix is a good idea because Windows loves to be dramatic and needs a restart to apply the permissions properly.
Here’s how to do it:
- Hit Windows key + R, type
services.mscand hit Enter. - In the list, find Windows Defender Firewall. Right-click and choose Properties.
- Go to the Log On tab. Select This account, type
Local Service. If it asks for a password, input your admin password. Click Apply. - Switch to the General tab. Set Startup type to Automatic. If the service isn’t running, click Start. Then hit OK.
Pro tip: On some machines, the service might be stuck or refuse to start at first — a quick reboot can sometimes fix that weird glitch. Because of course, Windows has to make it harder than necessary.
Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter
Windows comes with a built-in troubleshooter that’s basically the “shrink-ray” to fix common update problems. It’s not perfect, but it’s surprisingly good at catching what’s wrong without messing around too much.
Why it helps: It scans your update settings, network, and system files to identify conflicts or misconfigurations. Sometimes, it can fix things automatically, saving you a bunch of troubleshooting time.
When to try it: If your update gets stuck, or the error keeps coming back even after fixing permissions, this is a good next step.
What to expect: The troubleshooter will run, identify issues, and attempt to resolve them. Ideally, it’ll fix something that’s blocking the update process, and you’ll see that error gone next time you try to run Windows Update.
Steps:
- Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
- Navigate to Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
- Select Windows Update and click Run the troubleshooter.
- Follow the instructions on-screen — it’s usually just a matter of clicking Next and doing what it says. Restart if prompted.
Reset Windows Update Components
This one’s a classic. Sometimes, Windows’ update storage gets totally whacked, kind of like a cluttered desk. Resetting those components can clear out corruption or stuck downloads — it’s a bit of a hassle, but it works on many machines.
Why it helps: These components handle the download, cache, and installation cache for updates. If they’re broken or blocked, updates just won’t go through.
When it applies: When the normal troubleshooting doesn’t fix the issue, and you keep seeing the same error after multiple tries.
What to expect: After running, your update cache will be fresh, and Windows will attempt to re-download the updates anew. A reboot afterwards often completes the fix.
Commands (run in an elevated Command Prompt):
net stop wuauserv net stop cryptSvc net stop bits net stop msiserver ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.old net start wuauserv net start cryptSvc net start bits net start msiserverPro tip: Sometimes, running these commands on one machine is enough, but on others, you’ll need to repeat or reapply a reboot. Not sure why it works, but on some setups, a restart after the resets really helps seal the deal.
System Files Repair – SFC and DISM
Corrupted or missing system files — or even some Windows updates that went sideways — can cause all sorts of update failures. Running a quick health check with Windows’ built-in tools can help fix these issues.
Why it helps: Both SFC and DISM scan and fix system files, restoring things to a stable state. It’s like giving Windows a health check-up.
When to try: If all the above steps don’t resolve the error, this is often the last resort that’s worth a shot.
Steps:
- Open Command Prompt as administrator.
- Type
sfc /scannowand hit Enter. Wait for it to finish; it might take a bit. - If issues are found and fixed, reboot. If not, continue to:
- Run
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth. Again, be patient — this can take a few minutes. Reboot afterward.
Pro tip: Sometimes, these scans report fixing issues, but re-running them or trying the update again afterward can push the progress further. Not sure why, but it seems to help.
Make Sure You Have Enough Disk Space
It’s almost too simple, but Windows really hates running low on disk space during updates. If your drive’s almost full, downloads may fail or get corrupted, causing errors like 0x80070437.
Why it helps: Clearing space ensures Windows can download and unpack updates properly. Just like clearing clutter to find stuff faster.
When it applies: If your system drive (usually C:) is cramped or full, and updates struggle or stall altogether.
Steps:
- Check your storage via Settings > System > Storage.
- Use the built-in Disk Cleanup tool (search in Start).Select your system drive, then check system files, temporary files, and other clutter to delete. This frees up room for updates.
Manual Download and Installation of Updates
If all else fails, sometimes the best fix is to skip Windows Update entirely and install updates manually. Luckily, Microsoft hosts a catalog of updates so you can pick and install them directly.
Why it helps: It bypasses potential issues with Windows Store or Windows Update components, especially if certain KBs are stuck or corrupted.
When to try: When updates keep failing, and you’ve tried everything else but can identify the exact update (look in update history).It’s also useful if you’re tech-savvy enough to spot the KB number.
Steps:
- Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog.
- Look up the KB number from the update history (found in Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > View update history).
- Download the correct version (version and architecture — 64-bit or 32-bit).
- Run the installer and follow the prompts. It’s usually straightforward but can sometimes require a reboot.
Wrap-up
Getting past error 0x80070437 usually involves some trial and error, but fixing permissions for the firewall service, running the troubleshooter, resetting update components, or repairing system files often do the trick. Just remember, Windows is weird sometimes, and what works on one machine might not on another. Still, these should cover most bases and help get your system updating again.
Summary
- Check and set the Windows Defender Firewall service to automatic and start it if needed.
- Run the Windows Update troubleshooter.
- Reset Windows Update components via command prompt.
- Run SFC and DISM to repair any system file corruption.
- Ensure enough disk space is available.
- Manually download updates from the Microsoft Catalog.
Final note
Hopefully, this helps someone out there. Error 0x80070437 is a bit of a jerk, but with patience and the right tools, it usually can be fixed. Good luck, and fingers crossed this helps make updates less annoying!