Fix Windows Update Error 0x80070057

The Problem: You are trying to install a Windows Update, but it fails with the code 0x80070057. This is one of the most common Windows errors.

The Short Answer: This error usually means your update files are corrupt or the System Reserved partition is full. The quickest fix is to clear the update cache.

Method 1: Clear Windows Update Cache

This method forces Windows to download fresh update files.

1. Type cmd in the Windows search bar.
2. Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
3. Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:

   net stop wuauserv
   net stop bits
   ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
   net start wuauserv
   net start bits
                       

4. Close the window and try updating again.

Method 2: Run the DISM Command

If clearing the cache didn't work, specific system files might be damaged.

1. Open Command Prompt as administrator again.
2. Type this command and press Enter:

   DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

3. Wait for it to reach 100%. If it finds errors, it will fix them automatically.

Method 3: Check Date & Time Settings

Believe it or not, if your clock is wrong, Windows Update servers will reject your request.

• Right-click the time in the bottom right corner.
• Select Adjust date/time.
• Make sure Set time automatically is turned ON.
• Click Sync now.