Error Code 0x80240fff is associated with Windows Update. Usually, it shows up during automatic Windows Update checks or after the user manually tries to Scan for Updates.
There are several causes for the Update to break but the most common ones are mentioned below.
- Windows Defender Firewall functioning improperly,
- System Files missing/corrupted,
- Internet and Connectivity issues,
- Windows Update Services malfunctioning,
- Third-Party applications interfering.
Here are the various methods of tackling Error Code 0x80240fff.
Table of Contents
Pre-Troubleshoot Measures
Ensuring proper connectivity.
A simple Google search on the system can not only make sure that your system is properly connected to the internet, but can also be helpful in checking if there’s not a mass-error with Windows Updates that’s also occurred for other people. This can help you find quick fixes or make you aware in case they’re unfixable for the time being.
Rebooting the System.
Restarting a system is the most important step before trying to troubleshoot anything. Not only can it get rid of any intermittent glitches that could be causing this error, but it can also close applications and services that may interfere with the troubleshoot process later on.
See also: Getting Windows Ready Error | 4 Easy Fixes
Troubleshooting
Method 1: Running Windows Troubleshooter
As with fixing anything in a Windows System, the first attempt will always be with the help of Windows Troubleshooter.
- On the Search Bar, type “Settings” and open Windows Settings,
- Click on “Update and Security” which is usually the last option on the page,
- From the left column, click on “Troubleshoot”,
- Click on “Additional Troubleshooters”, again found at the bottom of the page,
- Select “Windows Update” and boot up the Troubleshooter.
The Troubleshooter will now try to fix the issues. In certain cases, it may ask you to take additional steps. Make sure to follow all the procedures as directed.
Method 2: Temporarily Pause Windows Updates
One of the most common ways to fix the Error 0x80240fff is to ‘’Defer” or Pause system updates. It is observed that once this Deferring period is over, Windows will install all pending updates and, in most cases the error goes away on its own.
- On the Search Bar, type “Settings” and open Windows Settings
- Click on “Update and Security”
- Select “Pause updates for 7 days”
Pause Updates - Next, go into “Advanced Options” just below the previously mentioned Pause button.
- At the bottom of the page, you’ll be able to choose the date on which the Deferring will end. It is recommended to keep this between 7 to 14 days.
- Upon the completion of this period, Windows will try to install all pending updates. Check if the issue is resolved. If it persists, carry on with the methods mentioned below.
Method 3: Turn off VPNs and Antiviruses
Proxy Networks and VPNs have a history of interfering with Windows Updates, thus giving error code 0x80240fff. Same goes with third-party Antiviruses as well as Windows’ Defender Firewall itself.
If you’re using such an application, try temporarily disabling them. You don’t have to uninstall them as you can turn them back on once the updates are complete.
Disabling Windows Defender Firewall
- On the Search Bar, type “Control Panel” and open the Windows Control Panel,
- Make sure that you’re Viewing the icons in Small/Large Icons by clicking on the top right “View By” dropdown menu and selecting either of the mentioned options.
- Now Click on “Windows Defender Firewall” which is usually the third-last option on the page.
- On the left pane, you’ll find the option to turn the Defender Firewall off.
Turn off Defender - In case you have a third-party Firewall or Antivirus, you may need to turn it off from that application itself.
Method 4: Restart Windows Update Services
Sometimes, a service running incorrectly may break the Windows Update entirely, causing you to get the error code 0x80240fff. As such, restarting a few services directly associated with it may resolve the issue.
- Open the Search Bar, type “Services.msc” and open the Services Panel,
- Right-Click on “Background Intelligent Transfer Service” and select Restart if it’s already running. If it isn’t running, click Start.
services.msc - Repeat the previous step for “Cryptographic” and ”Windows Update” Services.
- Try to run the update again.
Method 5: Check for System File Integrity Errors.
Corrupted or Missing system files can break a lot of basic Windows functions, including the ability to update.
- Open the Search Bar, type “cmd” and click on “Run as Administrator”,
- Type “sfc /scannow” without the quotations.
sfc /scannow - Let the Windows repair in case there are faulty files. Retry updating afterward.
Method 6: Manually Install the Updates
You can also try to install the updates yourself in case all of the mentioned methods don’t work.
- Go to Microsoft’s official Windows Downloads page,
- Click on “Update Now” which will download a Windows Update Tool,
- Run the tool and let it update your system.
Method 7: Reset PC
If none of the mentioned Methods work, you can try Resetting your PC.
- Open “Recovery Options” by searching for them on the search bar,
- Click on “Get Started” under “Reset this PC”,
- Select “Keep My Files” and let the system fully reset. The issue should be resolved once the system is rebooted.
Conclusion
Now you know the procedure of fixing the dreaded Error Code 0x80240fff. Did we miss any method? Let us know in the comments below!
