How to Fix Windows Error 0x800705B4 — Windows Update Timeout [2026]

Windows Error 0x800705B4: Windows Update Timeout

This error typically occurs when slow or unstable internet connection causing download timeout. Below you'll find 5 proven fixes to resolve it.

What Causes Windows Error 0x800705B4?

Windows error 0x800705B4 (Windows Update Timeout) can be triggered by several issues:

Slow or unstable internet connection causing download timeout
Microsoft update servers overloaded during peak hours
Firewall or security software blocking Windows Update traffic
Update file too large for the connection timeout window
Windows Update background service timing out internally

How to Fix Windows Error 0x800705B4 — Step by Step

Check internet speed and stability

Open a browser and test at fast.com or speedtest.net. Windows Update needs at least 1 Mbps sustained. If your connection is slow or dropping, fix that first.

Try updating during off-peak hours

Microsoft update servers are busiest on Patch Tuesday (second Tuesday of the month) and the days following. Try running Windows Update at 2-5 AM when server load is lower.

Temporarily disable firewall

Windows Security > Firewall > Turn off Windows Defender Firewall for both Private and Public networks. Run Windows Update. If it works, add Windows Update to the firewall exceptions and re-enable.

Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Windows Update > Run. The troubleshooter resets the update client and clears download state that may be causing the timeout.

Reset Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS)

CMD as Admin:
net stop bits
net start bits
BITS handles Windows Update downloads in the background. Restarting it clears any stuck download sessions.

Still Getting Error 0x800705B4?

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

Call (581) 398-1270 Book Remote Session

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Windows Update error 0x800705B4 mean?

A network operation timed out during the update process. Either the download took too long, a server did not respond in time, or a local service timed out waiting for a response.

Will trying again later fix it?

Often yes. If Microsoft's servers are under heavy load, retrying a few hours later usually succeeds. Persistent failures point to a local firewall or connection issue.

Can a VPN cause this timeout?

Yes. VPNs add latency and can route update traffic through congested servers. Disconnect your VPN before running Windows Update.

Is my internet too slow for Windows Updates?

Technically no — Windows Update works even on slow connections, it just takes longer. But connections under 1 Mbps with high latency may hit timeout limits on large updates.

How do I download updates manually to avoid timeouts?

Visit catalog.update.microsoft.com, search for the KB number, and download the standalone installer. Manual installs do not time out the same way as the automatic updater.

How to Fix Windows Error 0x800705B4 — Windows Update Timeout