iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
To fix Windows Update error 0x80073701, run DISM’s component-store repair, then System File Checker (SFC), restart Windows, and try the update again. The code means Windows could not find a referenced assembly; Microsoft says it is typically associated with component-store corruption, but the code alone does not identify the missing component.
What error 0x80073701 means
Windows maps error 0x80073701 to ERROR_SXS_ASSEMBLY_MISSING: a referenced assembly could not be found. Microsoft says the error is typically caused by component-store corruption when a component is only partially installed. That is a likely explanation, not proof that every occurrence has the same cause. Microsoft’s error-code guidance describes the code and recommended repair.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Password Reset Disk for Windows 7, 8.1, 10, 11, Windows Password Recovery USB, Password Reset Tool | $21.90 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Lexar A30E USB 3.2 Gen 1 Flash Drive 128GB 2-Pack | $39.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Run DISM, then SFC
Use an elevated Command Prompt and run the commands in this order. DISM repairs the Windows component store; SFC then checks and repairs protected system files using that store.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
-
Open Start, type
Command Prompt, right-click it, and select Run as administrator. Approve the User Account Control prompt if it appears.#1 Best Overall
Password Reset Disk for Windows 7, 8.1, 10, 11, Windows Password Recovery USB, Password Reset Tool- FOR FULL INSTRUCTION PLEASE READ DESCRIPTION
- Step 1: Boot from the USB Flash Drive - Insert the USB flash drive into an available USB port on your computer. - Turn on your computer or restart it if it’s already on. - As the computer starts, press the key that opens the boot menu. This key varies by manufacturer and model, but it’s often F2, F10, Esc, or Delete. - In the BIOS/UEFI setup menu, locate the Boot Options or Boot Order section. - Use the arrow keys to select your USB drive and move it to the top of the boot priority list. - Save your changes and exit the BIOS/UEFI setup. Your computer will now boot from the USB flash drive.
- After that its will take few minutes to reset Windows login password
- Package includes instruction how to use "Password reset USB" software
-
Enter
Dism.exe /Online /Cleanup-Image /Restorehealthand press Enter. Wait for the operation to finish before continuing. -
Enter
Sfc.exe /Scannowand press Enter. Let verification reach completion. -
Restart the computer, then retry the Windows Update that failed.
Recommended Free Tools
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Microsoft recommends this DISM-then-SFC sequence. These built-in repairs are the first steps to try, but they are not guaranteed to resolve every update failure or package-specific problem. Microsoft’s System File Checker instructions also specify running DISM before SFC.
If DISM cannot find repair files
By default, DISM ordinarily gets files it needs through Windows Update. If that source is unavailable or the update client is not working, Microsoft says you can provide a suitable Windows installation or side-by-side folder as the repair source, including one on a network share or removable media.
For example, if the actual repair files are in C:RepairSourceWindows, the command form is:
Rank #2
- Lightweight and convenient: Lexar JumpDrive A30E (USB Type-A) boasts a slim, portable design for easy device compatibility; lightweight at 7.41 g
- Transfer speeds up to 100 MB/s: 10x faster than standard USB 2.0 drives; Based on internal testing, performance may vary depending upon the host device, interface, and usage conditions
- Wide compatibility: Compatible with tablets, laptops, Macs, and traditional Type-A devices, no software installation required; Reliably stores photos, videos & files
- Compact: Features a push-button retractor and a lanyard loop for on-the-go use
- Enhanced security: Lexar DataShield protects files, easily creates a password-protected safe with auto-encryption; Files deleted from the safe are securely erased and can't be recovered
DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth /Source:C:RepairSourceWindows /LimitAccess
C:RepairSourceWindows is an illustrative path, not a folder to assume exists. Replace it with the path to a suitable source for the Windows installation being repaired. The /LimitAccess option prevents DISM from using Windows Update. Microsoft’s repair guidance explains using alternate sources.
If the repair commands fail
Check %windir%LogsCBSCBS.log for servicing details. The log can help identify the component or operation involved; the error code by itself does not reveal which assembly is missing.
Microsoft notes that a component-store repair may sometimes require manually supplying payload for the partially installed component. That is not a universal command to run: first identify the failing component from the servicing details, and avoid guessing at a package-specific repair. If you need further troubleshooting, record the Windows edition and build, the update’s KB number, and the complete DISM and SFC results.
When to use StartComponentCleanup
Microsoft documented dism /online /cleanup-image /startcomponentcleanup as a workaround for recurring error 0x80073701 on Windows 10 version 1809 and version 1903. In that guidance, the command is run from an elevated Command Prompt after retrying the update, followed by a restart and another update check. The workaround applies to the versions named in that article; it should not be treated as a universal current fix for other Windows versions.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
