Windows Update Error 0x80070003

What is WU-0x80070003?

The system cannot find the path specified, preventing Windows Update, Windows Backup, or installer services from accessing the target directories.

Common Causes

• Registry paths for the Windows Update download cache (SoftwareDistribution) are corrupted or point to missing volumes.
• Third-party security software is locking the update paths or blocking directory creations.
• Incomplete or corrupt installer package downloads inside the temp directories.

Step-by-Step Fix Guide

• 1
  Stop Windows Update services, delete the SoftwareDistribution folder, and let Windows rebuild the update paths.
• 2
  Temporarily disable third-party antivirus software during the update installation process.
• 3
  Run the built-in Windows Update Troubleshooter to automatically detect and repair file path flags.

Commands & Diagnostics