How to Fix Windows Error 0x80070422 — Service Not Started [2026]

Windows Error 0x80070422: Service Not Started

This error typically occurs when windows update service set to disabled in services. Below you'll find 5 proven fixes to resolve it.

What Causes Windows Error 0x80070422?

Windows error 0x80070422 (Service Not Started) can be triggered by several issues:

Windows Update service set to Disabled in Services
Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS) stopped
Dependency service (Windows Firewall, RPC) not running
Group Policy set to disable Windows Update
Malware disabling Windows Update to prevent security patches

How to Fix Windows Error 0x80070422 — Step by Step

Enable and start Windows Update service

Press Win + R > services.msc > scroll to Windows Update > double-click > Startup type: Automatic (Delayed Start) > Service status > Start > OK.

Enable and start BITS service

In services.msc > find Background Intelligent Transfer Service > double-click > Startup type: Automatic > Start > OK. BITS is a dependency of Windows Update.

Check dependency services

Windows Update depends on Remote Procedure Call (RPC) and Windows Firewall. In services.msc, ensure both are Running and set to Automatic startup.

Check Group Policy settings

Press Win + R > gpedit.msc (Pro/Enterprise only) > Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update > Configure Automatic Updates > set to Not Configured or Enabled.

Run a malware scan

Some malware specifically disables Windows Update to prevent security patches from installing. Run Windows Security > Virus scan > Full scan. Also try Malwarebytes free.

Still Getting Error 0x80070422?

IT Cares can diagnose and fix this error remotely — usually in under 30 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does Windows Update error 0x80070422 mean?

The Windows Update service is not running. Windows tried to use the service to check for or download updates but the service is stopped or disabled.

Who could have disabled the Windows Update service?

It may have been: a system administrator, a Windows optimization tool, malware, a failed update, or accidental manual change. Check services.msc to confirm it is stopped.

Is it safe to enable Windows Update on a managed work PC?

On corporate PCs, the IT department may intentionally control Windows Update via Group Policy. Contact your IT department before changing update settings on a work computer.

Can I turn off Windows Update legally?

Yes on Pro/Enterprise via Group Policy. But disabling it permanently is not recommended — security updates protect against known vulnerabilities. Consider delaying updates instead.

What if starting the service fails?

If you cannot start the Windows Update service even manually, run sfc /scannow and DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth to repair the service registration.

How to Fix Windows Error 0x80070422 — Service Not Started