Unable to install Windows updates - "Missing files"

[Spymaster72]

For some reason, I've been unable to install the most recent Windows update: 2025-07 Cumulative Update for Windows 11 Version 24H2 for x64-based Systems (KB5062553)

I repeatedly get this error message: "Some update files are missing or have problems. We'll try to download the update again later. Error code: (0x80073712)"

I've tried on and off for around 6 weeks now, and no luck.  I've not had the issue before.  I've tried installing it manually from Microsoft's site and that doesn't work either.  I've tried various tips to scan for errors, health checks, etc. but nothing makes a difference.  Security updates are fine, so it's not a Windows update per se.  Just this particular update.

Is there a known problem?  Thanks!

[Spymaster72]

Is there no fix for this at all?

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @Spymaster72 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

The error code (0x80073712) usually indicates that there may be missing or corrupted Windows update files. Here are some steps to troubleshoot and resolve this issue on your HP 15.6 inch Laptop PC:

Troubleshooting Windows Update Error Code 0x80073712

Run Windows Update Troubleshooter:

• Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
• Select Windows Update and run the troubleshooter to identify and fix issues.

Delete Pending Updates:

• Open File Explorer and navigate to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download.
• Delete all files in the Download folder to remove any corrupted update files.
• Go back to Windows Update and attempt to download the update again.

Use DISM and SFC Tools:

• Open Command Prompt as an administrator. Type the following commands and press Enter after each:
  • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  • sfc /scannow
• These commands clean and repair Windows system files, which may solve the update issue.

Reset Windows Update Components:

• Open Command Prompt as administrator and enter the following commands:
  • 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 msiserver
• This process will reset the Windows Update components, potentially resolving the error.

Check for Blocked Updates:

• Ensure there are no third-party antivirus programs blocking the updates. Temporarily disable them and try updating Windows.

Boot in Safe Mode with Networking:

• Boot your system in Safe Mode with Networking and try running the Windows Update again. This can sometimes bypass software conflicts.

Free Storage Space:

• Confirm that there's sufficient storage space available for Windows updates as inadequate space may hinder installation.

If you continue experiencing issues after following these steps, consider reaching out to Microsoft's support for further solutions. Additionally, checking HP's support might provide additional insights or firmware updates that could address compatibility concerns with Windows updates.

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye

[Spymaster72]

Hi - I've tried every single one of those already - with zero success!  The only one I can't try is the most basic Windows Update troubleshooter which, ironically, also fails!  (All the other tests/actions have completed okay, but haven't resolved the issue).  There are a number of people on-line reporting similar problems.  It doesn't help that there's no way of knowing what files are actually missing!  There's clearly something wrong with how certain laptop configurations are reacting to these updates.

[Hawks_Eye]

@Spymaster72 

We sincerely thank you for your patience and co-operation during this troubleshooting process.

If after following these steps you still face issues, consider reaching out to our customer support over the phone for further assistance. 

I'm sending you a private message to guide you on the next steps.

To access it, click the private message icon in the upper-right corner of your HP Support Community profile, next to your name.

If this resolves your issue, kindly mark this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" if it was helpful.

Take care and have a great day!

Regards,

Hawks_Eye