How to Fix Error 0x800f0831 When Updating Windows

When you’re trying to install a new Windows cumulative update, error code 0x800f0831 may sometimes pop up on the screen. This error indicates your computer could not access Microsoft’s Update servers or the update services stopped working. Restart your computer and check if the error persists. If it does, follow the steps below to fix the problem.

How Do I Fix Windows Upgrade Error 0x800f0831?

Check Your Connection

Unplug your router and wait for two minutes to get rid of flea power. Meanwhile, restart your computer. Then plug the router back in and wait until your computer goes back online. Make sure to disconnect all the other devices using the connection. If you’re on Wi-Fi, temporarily switch to a cable connection if that’s possible.

Run the Update Troubleshooter

The Update troubleshooter can automatically detect and fix the issues that are causing error code 0x800f0831.

1. Go to Settings, and select Update and Security.
2. Click on the Troubleshoot option in the left-hand pane.
3. Then select Show additional troubleshooters.
4. Launch the Update troubleshooter and let it scan and fix your system.
5. Check for updates again.

Restart the Update Services

You can quickly restart the Windows Update services via Command Prompt. This will help you establish a new connection to Microsoft’s Update servers.

1. Press the Windows and X keys, and select Command Prompt (Admin).
2. Then run the commands below one by one. Hit Enter after each command and wait until CMD finishes running the current command before entering a new one:
   • net stop bits
   • net stop wuauserv
   • net stop appidsvc
   • net stop cryptsvc
   • Del "%ALLUSERSPROFILE%\Application Data\Microsoft\Network\Downloader\*.*"
   • rmdir %systemroot%\SoftwareDistribution /S /Q
   • rmdir %systemroot%\system32\catroot2 /S /Q
   • net start bits
   • net start wuauserv
   • net start appidsvc
   • net start cryptsvc

Additionally, scan and repair your disk with the help of the commands below:

• dism.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth
• sfc /scannow

Restart your computer and check for updates again.

Manually Install the Updates

Alternatively, you can install the stubborn updates manually using Microsoft’s Update Catalog website. Close all the unnecessary programs, and open a new browser tab. Then go to Microsoft’s Update Catalog and enter the update’s KB number in the search field. Hit the Download button and check if your computer can install the update.

Conclusion

If error code 0x800f0831 prevents you from installing the latest Windows updates on your computer, restart your router and computer. If the issue persists, manually download the updates from Microsoft’s Update Catalog webpage, and check if your machine can install them. Additionally, run the Update Troubleshooter, and restart the Update Services. If you found other ways to fix Windows Update error 0x800f0831,  feel free to share your ideas in the comments below.