Windows 7 Update Error 80072efe: How to Fix It?

Are you experiencing frustration and inconvenience due to the Windows 7 update error 80072efe? If you've been encountering this constant issue, worry not because you're not alone.

Many Windows 7 users have encountered the same error, causing their system updates to come to a screeching halt. However, we're here to help you with the guide to fix this issue. In this comprehensive guide, we will dive into the depths of the Windows 7 update error 80072efe and provide you with different methods to fix it.

So, fasten your seat belts and get ready to get rid of this error once and for all. By the end of this article, you'll have the knowledge and confidence to overcome this frustrating issue and resume the smooth operation of your Windows 7 system. Let's get started!

1. Part 1: What Does the Windows 7 Update Error 80072efe Mean?
2. Part 2: How to Fix Windows 7 Update Error 80072efe?
   • Method 1. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter
   • Method 2. Run the Network Adapter Troubleshooter
   • Method 3. Install the KB3138612 Update
   • Method 4. Delete the Catroot2 Folder for Windows Update
   • Method 5. Disable All Third-party Firewalls
   • Method 6. Reset the Windows Update Components
3. Part 3: How to Recover Lost Data Due to Windows 7 Update Error 80072efe?HOT

Part 1: What Does the Windows 7 Update Error 80072efe Mean?

Windows 7 Update Error 80072efe is an issue that occurs when the Windows Update service fails to search for new updates or install them on your computer. This error typically indicates a communication problem between your computer and the Windows Update servers.

There are several common reasons behind this error. It can be caused by network connectivity issues, such as a weak or unstable internet connection, firewall settings blocking communication, or proxy server configuration problems. Malware or virus infections can also interfere with the Windows Update process and trigger this error.

Additionally, incorrect system date and time settings, corrupted system files, or conflicts with third-party software can contribute to Error 80072efe.

Now let's discuss how to fix Windows 7 update error 80072efe in detail.

Part 2: How to Fix Windows 7 Update Error 80072efe?

Here are different methods with step-by-step instructions to help you fix Windows 7 update error 80072efe.

Method 1. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

The first method to fix Windows update error 80072efe is to run the Windows update troubleshooter and let the Windows automatically fix the issue.

Here are the steps that can help you.

1. Press the Windows key, type "control panel," and hit Enter.
2. In the Control Panel, select "Troubleshooting" and click on "View all" in the left panel.

3. Double-click on "Windows Update" and follow the on-screen instructions provided by the troubleshooter.

4. It will automatically look for the problem and help you fix it.

   

Method 2. Run the Network Adapter Troubleshooter

If running the Windows update troubleshooter doesn't fix the issue, it's time to run the network adopter troubleshooter because a poor network can also cause Windows update error code 80072efe.

Here are the steps that can help you.

1. Press the Windows key, type "control panel," and press Enter.
2. In the Control Panel, select "Troubleshooting" and click on "View all" in the left pane.

3. Double-click on "Network Adapter" and follow the troubleshooter's instructions.

   
4. It will automatically look for the problem and help you fix it.

Method 3. Install the KB3138612 Update

If none of the above methods works for you, this means that you will have to update the driver manually. The KB3138612 update addresses known issues with Windows Update and is specifically designed to fix error 80072efe. By downloading and installing this update from the Microsoft Update Catalog, you can resolve the problem.

For this, follow these steps:

1. Open your web browser and visit the Microsoft Update Catalog website.

2. Search for "KB3138612" and select the appropriate download for your system.

   
3. Download and install the update following the on-screen instructions.
4. After successfully installing the update, restart your computer.

This will help you get rid of Windows 7 update error 80072efe.

Method 4. Delete the Catroot2 Folder for Windows Update

Corrupted Windows Update cache files can also trigger error 80072efe. Deleting the Catroot2 folder, which stores these cache files, forces Windows to rebuild the cache from scratch. This will help you get rid of the Windows 7 update error 80072efe.

Follow these steps to delete the Catroot2 folder:

1. Press the Windows key + R, type "services.msc," and hit Enter.

   
2. In the Services window, locate and stop the "Cryptographic Services" service.

3. Open File Explorer and navigate to "C:\Windows\System32\catroot2."

   
4. Delete all the contents of the "catroot2" folder but not the folder itself.
5. Restart the "Windows Update" service, and the problem will be fixed.

Method 5. Disable All Third-party Firewalls

Third-party firewalls or security software installed on your computer can also sometimes conflict with the Windows Update process, leading to error 80072efe.

Disabling these firewalls temporarily can help eliminate any potential interference and allow Windows Update to function properly. This process may vary depending on the specific firewall program you are using.

By disabling the third-party firewalls temporarily, you create a clear path for Windows Update to communicate without any hindrances, increasing the chances of resolving the error. Once the error is resolved, you can enable the firewalls again to maintain the security of your system.

Method 6. Reset the Windows Update Components

Resetting the Windows Update components can resolve various update-related issues. By stopping the relevant services, deleting the Software Distribution and Catroot2 folders, and restarting the services, you can effectively reset the Windows Update components.

Here are the steps that can help you.

Step 1: Press the Windows key + R, type "cmd," and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to open Command Prompt as an administrator.

Step 2: In Command Prompt, type the following commands, pressing Enter after each one:

1. net stop wuauserv
2. net stop cryptSvc
3. net stop bits
4. net stop msiserver

Step 3: Now press Windows + E keys simultaneously until you see the File Explorer. Here you will have to search "CatRoot 2 and Software Distribution" and delete all the data inside these folders.

Step 4: Once you have successfully deleted all the data in these folders, get back to the Command Prompt and again run these commands mentioned in step 2 one by one.

Step 5: After that, close the command prompt and restart your Windows.

So this is how to fix error code 80072efe Windows 7 update.