I can’t install Windows 10 Anniversary update because it continuously stops at around 40% and gets stuck on 0x80240031. Where does this error come from, and how can I fix it?
Solve the answer
0x80240031 is a system error that users encounter when updating old Windows software to a newer version. It was particularly popular with Windows 8 and 8.1 updates, but now the same problem is rounding around Windows 10 technical support discussion forums. So what is this error, and why does it prevent users from enjoying new and improved versions of their favorite operating systems?
“There was a problem installing some updates, but we’ll try again later.” This explanation is usually accompanied by error code 0x80240031. Watching it over and over can become quite frustrating as it doesn’t go on to explain what the real cause of this problem might be. Not knowing which particular problem needs to be fixed, less experienced users might be stuck in a never-ending loop of error. So we have decided to clear up this issue and provide some tips on how it can be fixed.
Mostly, Error Code 0x80240031 is related to problems like corrupt Windows update files, corrupt file registry, or issues with system files. This means the software was corrupted somewhere during the update installation and cannot be installed due to this violation. However, to determine the problem’s actual cause, it’s a good idea to fix the problem through Windows’ inbuilt support tools or download the Windows Update Troubleshooter from Microsoft’s official website. Third-party system optimizers like Reimage can also help identify the problem. However, if you have to fix your computer manually, check out the instructions we provide below.
How to fix error code 0x80240031 on Windows 10?
It could be that some system files are crashing or programs are interfering with the update. To shut these programs down, you’ll have to start Windows in a clean boot mode. To do that:
- Search for msconfig in your Start search box
- In the search results window, select System Configuration
- Once in the System Configuration dialog box, go to the Services tab and select Hide all Microsoft services. Then click Disable all.
- In the same System Configuration dialog, go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
- Disable any startup items in Task Manager
- Close Task Manager and click OK
- Restart the computer.
Fix your computer in clean boot mode and try to install the update again. If the update is successful, please restart the computer in normal mode again.
To start the computer in normal mode, repeat steps 1 and 2. Then do the following:
- Go to the General tab and click Normal Startup.
- In the new window, find the Services tab, highlight all Microsoft services, and open Task Manager.
- Once in management, turn on startup programs by clicking Enable all.
- Click OK and restart your computer.
If this method didn’t work for you and you still can’t install the Anniversary Update, try resetting Windows Update Components. You can do that automatically by downloading the Windows Update Troubleshooter. To manually restore the Windows update component settings, follow the instructions on the Microsoft support site.