Are you encountering the Windows update error 80072EFE which prevents your computer from searching for new updates? This article provides helpful solutions to fix this issue and regain the ability to search for and install updates on your Windows system. Whether you’re a Windows user experiencing this problem or a tech-savvy individual looking to assist others, this article will guide you through effective troubleshooting steps to resolve the Windows cannot search the new update 80072EFE error.
Understanding The Windows Update Error 80072EFE
The Windows Update Error 80072EFE is a common issue that users encounter when trying to update their Windows operating system. This error typically occurs due to connection problems between your computer and the Windows Update servers. Understanding the possible causes of this error can help you resolve it effectively.
One possible cause of the error is an issue with your internet connection. If your internet connection is unstable or weak, it can interrupt the communication between your computer and the update servers. Troubleshooting internet connection issues, such as resetting your modem or router, can help resolve this problem.
Another potential cause is conflicts between your firewall or antivirus software and the Windows Update process. These security software programs may block certain Windows Update components, causing the error. In such cases, disabling or temporarily uninstalling the conflicting software can help resolve the issue.
By understanding the underlying causes of the Windows Update Error 80072EFE, you can follow the appropriate troubleshooting steps and find a solution that works for you.
Troubleshooting Internet Connection Issues
Having a stable and reliable internet connection is crucial when it comes to downloading and installing Windows updates. If you encounter the Windows update error 80072EFE, the first step is to troubleshoot your internet connection.
To begin, ensure that your internet connection is active and functioning properly. Check if other devices in your network can connect to the internet without any issues. If they can, the problem might lie with your computer or network settings.
Next, try restarting your router and modem to refresh the connection. Sometimes, a simple reboot can resolve temporary network glitches. Additionally, make sure that your Wi-Fi or Ethernet cables are securely plugged in and not damaged.
If you are using a wireless connection, verify that you are within range of the Wi-Fi signal or try moving closer to the router. If your computer has an Ethernet connection, ensure that the cable is firmly connected to both your computer and the modem.
If troubleshooting your internet connection doesn’t solve the error, proceed to the next methods to fix Windows update error 80072EFE.
Resolving Firewall And Antivirus Software Conflicts
Firewall and antivirus software are essential tools for protecting your computer from various threats. However, in some cases, they can also interfere with the Windows Update process and cause the error 80072EFE. To resolve this issue, you need to ensure that your firewall and antivirus software are not obstructing the update process.
Firstly, check the settings of your firewall and antivirus software to see if they are blocking Windows Update. Look for options related to automatic updating and make sure they are enabled. If necessary, consult the software documentation or contact the software provider for assistance.
If the issue persists, you may consider temporarily disabling your firewall and antivirus software while performing the Windows Update. However, this should only be done if you are confident in the security of your system and have a strong internet connection.
Once the update is complete, remember to re-enable your firewall and antivirus software to ensure the ongoing protection of your computer. Regularly updating your firewall and antivirus software and keeping them up to date with the latest patches and definitions is also crucial for preventing conflicts with Windows Update.
Updating Windows Using The Troubleshooter Tool
The Troubleshooter Tool is a built-in feature in Windows that can help diagnose and resolve various issues, including the Windows Update Error 80072EFE. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use the Troubleshooter Tool to update Windows:
1. Press the Windows key on your keyboard and type “Troubleshoot” in the search bar.
2. Click on the “Troubleshoot settings” option that appears.
3. In the Troubleshoot settings window, scroll down and under the “Get up and running” section, click on “Windows Update.”
4. Click on the “Run the troubleshooter” button.
5. The troubleshooter will start detecting problems with Windows Update. It may take a few minutes to complete.
6. Once the troubleshooter has finished, it will provide a summary of the issues found and any fixes applied.
7. Restart your computer and try updating Windows again.
Using the Troubleshooter Tool can often resolve common Windows Update errors, including error 80072EFE. If the error persists, you can try other troubleshooting methods or seek further assistance from Microsoft Support.
Resetting Windows Update Components
When facing the Windows update error 80072EFE, resetting the Windows Update components can often resolve the issue. Over time, these components may become corrupted or misconfigured, hindering the update process.
To reset the Windows Update components, follow these steps:
1. Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “services.msc” and press Enter. This will open the Services window.
3. Scroll down and locate the “Windows Update” service.
4. Right-click on it and select “Stop” from the context menu.
5. Repeat the same process for the “Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS)” and “Cryptographic Services” as well.
6. Now, go to the following directory: C:WindowsSoftwareDistribution
7. Select all the files and folders inside the SoftwareDistribution folder and delete them.
Once the files are deleted, restart your computer and try running Windows Update again. This process will force the system to recreate the required update files and should resolve the error 80072EFE.
If the problem persists, try other troubleshooting methods or consider contacting Microsoft Support for further assistance.
Checking For Malware And Removing It
In this section, we will discuss how to check for malware and remove it as a potential cause of the Windows Update Error 80072EFE. Malware, such as viruses or spyware, can interfere with the functioning of Windows Update and cause various errors, including error 80072EFE.
To check for malware, you can use a reputable antivirus program to perform a full system scan. Make sure the antivirus software is up-to-date with the latest virus definitions to effectively detect and remove any malware present on your computer. If any malware is detected, follow the instructions provided by the antivirus program to quarantine or remove it completely.
It’s also a good idea to use additional malware removal tools, such as Malwarebytes, to perform a secondary scan and ensure all malicious elements are eliminated. These programs can often detect and remove malware that standard antivirus software may miss.
Once the malware is removed, restart your computer and attempt to run Windows Update again. This should resolve the error 80072EFE and allow you to install the new updates successfully.
Contacting Microsoft Support For Further Assistance
If you have tried all the previous solutions and are still unable to fix the Windows Update Error 80072EFE, it may be time to seek help from Microsoft Support. Their dedicated team of experts is available to assist you in resolving any complex issues related to your Windows operating system.
To contact Microsoft Support, you can visit their official website and navigate to the Support section. Here, you will find various options to get in touch with their support team, such as live chat, email, or phone support.
Before reaching out to Microsoft Support, make sure to gather all the relevant information regarding the issue, including the error code (80072EFE) and any troubleshooting steps you have already taken. This will help the support representative to better understand your problem and provide you with an accurate solution.
Remember to be patient and cooperative during the support process as resolving complex issues can take time. With the help of Microsoft Support, you can efficiently overcome the Windows Update Error 80072EFE and ensure that your system stays up to date with the latest updates and security patches.
FAQ
1. Why am I getting the error message “Windows cannot search the new update 80072EFE”?
This error typically occurs when the Windows update service encounters a problem while searching for new updates. It can happen due to various reasons, such as network issues, firewall settings, or corrupt system files.
2. How can I fix the Windows update error 80072EFE?
There are several solutions you can try to fix this error. Start by checking your internet connection and ensuring it is stable. Next, disable any third-party firewall or security software temporarily, as they might be blocking the update process. You can also run the Windows Update Troubleshooter or manually reset the Windows Update components.
3. Is there a way to fix the error without disabling my firewall?
If you don’t want to disable your firewall completely for security reasons, you can try adding exceptions or rules to allow Windows Update to access the internet. Consult your firewall’s documentation or contact the product’s support team for guidance on configuring the necessary settings to allow Windows Update.
4. What should I do if the above solutions don’t resolve the error?
If none of the aforementioned solutions work, you can try performing a System File Checker (SFC) scan to check for any corrupt system files and repair them. Another option is to manually download the update from the Microsoft Update Catalog and install it directly. If all else fails, reaching out to Microsoft Support for further assistance is recommended.
Final Words
In conclusion, encountering the error “Windows Cannot Search the New Update 80072EFE” can be frustrating, but there are helpful solutions available to resolve this issue. By following the steps mentioned in the article, such as checking internet connectivity, disabling antivirus software, resetting the Windows Update components, and running the Windows Update Troubleshooter, users can successfully overcome this error and ensure that their Windows operating system stays up to date with the latest updates. Remember to always seek professional assistance if the problem persists or if additional troubleshooting is needed.