Windows 11 error 0x80073712 usually means a file Windows Update needs is damaged, missing, or incompletely downloaded. Back up important files, run the Windows Update troubleshooter in Get Help, then—if the error remains—run Microsoft’s repair commands in order: DISM first, followed by System File Checker (SFC). Restart if prompted and try Windows Update again.
What error 0x80073712 means
Microsoft describes this code as indicating that a file needed by Windows Update is likely damaged or missing; its installation-error guidance also groups it with incomplete downloads. The code points to a likely class of problem, not a confirmed cause on every PC. It does not, by itself, establish that a particular update file or hardware component is at fault. Microsoft’s installation-error guidance explains the message.
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Fix the error in this order
1. Back up important files
Save a current copy of personal files before troubleshooting. Microsoft recommends backing up before trying its Windows Update troubleshooting steps. Microsoft’s Windows Update troubleshooting guide provides its general precautions and options.
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2. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter
On Windows 11, begin with the automated troubleshooter in the Get Help app, following any steps or restart instructions it gives. Microsoft also lists this Settings route: Start > Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Windows Update > Run. After the troubleshooter finishes, check for the update again.
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3. Run DISM, then SFC
If the troubleshooter does not resolve the problem, use Microsoft’s system repair tools from an elevated Command Prompt. Administrator permissions are required. Run the commands separately and let each one finish before starting the next:
- Open Start, search for Command Prompt, select Run as administrator, and approve the permission prompt.
- Enter
DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealthand press Enter. Wait for the operation to complete. - Enter
sfc /scannowand press Enter. Wait until verification reaches 100 percent.
Microsoft specifies DISM before SFC. DISM normally obtains repair files through Windows Update; if the Windows Update client itself is not working, Microsoft documents using a valid alternate Windows repair source. Use a repair source that matches the Windows installation rather than downloading individual system DLLs or replacement files from third-party sites. See Microsoft’s System File Checker instructions.
4. Check for updates again
Open Start > Settings > Windows Update, select Check for updates, and install available updates. Restart if Windows asks, then check whether the update completed.
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If the error continues
Microsoft’s broader Windows Update guidance includes additional checks such as date and time, available disk space, the SoftwareDistribution cache, and possible driver or security-software conflicts. These are general troubleshooting avenues, not confirmed causes of 0x80073712 on a particular PC. Use them when the basic steps above do not help and the relevant symptom fits; do not reset update components or remove security software automatically just because this code appeared. Consult Microsoft’s troubleshooting guide for the applicable steps.
A March 2026 update incident had a specific fix
Microsoft reported that some Windows 11 devices installing the March 2026 preview update KB5079391 saw the message “Some update files are missing or have problems. We’ll try to download the update again later. Error code: (0x80073712).” Microsoft’s March 31, 2026 out-of-band release notes say KB5086672 addressed that installation issue for Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2, all editions. That was a fix for the specific preview-update incident, subject to update eligibility and servicing context—not a universal remedy for every PC showing the same code. Check your Windows version and update history before treating that release as relevant; do not install an older package solely because the error code matches. Microsoft’s KB5086672 release notes describe its scope.
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