How to Fix the 0x800705b4 Windows Update Error

Keeping Windows updated is important to retain the latest features and, more importantly, the latest security patches. But sometimes Windows update errors get in the way. The Windows 0x800705b4 error occurs when the Windows Update service is unable to complete its task for some reason.

Cause of 0x800705b4 Error

The 0x800705b4 Windows update error typically appears when you attempt a Windows update, or when the update scheduler activates at its allotted time.

There are several causes for it, namely problems with the service, and Windows Defender getting in the way. Narrowing down the root of an 0x800705b4 error involves trying various fixes.

How to Fix the 0x800705b4 Windows Update Error

There are a few things you can try to get Windows 10 updating correctly. Some are more hands-on than others, but none are too complicated. Start with the easiest and most likely to be successful and work your way through from there.

1. Run an antivirus scan. Windows errors can sometimes come from malicious software like viruses and malware. Running a scan could fix that. If you don't have one, install an antivirus application and then run it.

2. Run Windows Update Troubleshooter. Windows troubleshooters are a great way to figure out what's wrong with a system. Even if a troubleshooter doesn't fix it, it might point you in the right direction.

3. Reset Windows Update. It might be that a particular component of the Windows Update process broke down for some reason. There's an automated script you can run (download the script from Microsoft). If you prefer, run the update process manually.

4. Run a System File Checker scan. Another way to potentially fix this update problem is to perform a file checker scan. One command can trigger it: sfc/scannow. There are also other sfc commands worth learning if you're interested in the versatility of this tool.

5. Run a DISM scan. Run a deployment image servicing and management (DISM) scan. This method is less likely to fix the issue than the above methods. However, it's easy to do and can cover a few potential problems, including Windows update errors.

6. Change the Windows Update settings. An unnecessary component of Windows in the update may prevent it from downloading. Only focusing on essential Windows elements might get around that. If you turn off Windows Automatic Updates, turn it back on again once you resolve the issue. This way, you won't miss critical security updates.

7. Disable antivirus software. Only attempt this if you've tried everything else.

   • If you have Avast Antivirus, disable it temporarily (or permanently, if you choose).
   • If you have AVG, it's easy to disable the antivirus.
   • If you use Malwarebytes, use its first-party guide to disable real-time protection.
   • If you have Norton Antivirus, temporarily or permanently disable it.
   • If you use McAfee, disabling the antivirus is easy.

   If you use another antivirus client, check the official site to see if there's a guide on how to do it. Alternatively, check the taskbar. You may be able to disable the client from there.

   Disabling antivirus software is a temporary measure. Re-enable the antivirus program after the update has completed, as it's paramount to staying safe online.