Fix 0x80070020
Another process is locking Windows Update files.
Most common cause
Another program (often antivirus, backup tools, or installers) is using a file Windows Update needs.
Time to fix
10–25 minutes
Safe?
Yes — these steps use built-in Windows tools.
What this error means
Another program (often antivirus, backup tools, or installers) is using a file Windows Update needs.
Try these fixes first
- Restart your PC and try Windows Update again.
- Close background installers and pause antivirus scans temporarily.
- Try updating after a clean boot (we can add steps).
Advanced steps
- Run Windows Update Troubleshooter.
- Run: sfc /scannow
- Reset Windows Update components (we can add the full script next).
Still stuck?
If none of the steps above worked, here are the next best actions:
- Take note of the exact error code and what you were doing when it appeared.
- Restart your PC and try the same action again (updates/install).
- If this is Windows Update, consider resetting Windows Update components (we can add the full copy/paste script next).