Windows update says we couldn't connect it to the update service, Store apps also encountering error while download

Sumit 44,306 Volunteer Moderator

Hi,

While performing an update check in Windows update, I get a message as follows:

"We couldn't connect to the update service, make sure your PC is connected to the Internet and try again"

Also,

Downloading and updating Store apps issue also say

"We couldn't install, we would try shortly"

Locked Question. This question was migrated from the Microsoft Support Community. You can vote on whether it's helpful, but you can't add comments or replies or follow the question.

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Answer accepted by question author

Sumit 44,306 Volunteer Moderator

There are multiple reports of Windows update not being able to connect to the Update server and other Microsoft services not being able to connect to the Internet. While this is being investigated, you can try changing the DNS and see if it resolves the issue for you.

To change the DNS, perform the following steps:

Press Windows key+R to open Run dialog box.
Type in ncpa.cpl and press Enter.
Right-click the device in the Network list through which you connect and choose Properties.
Select Internet Protocol version 4 and choose properties just below the Checkbox list.
Select the radio button "Use the following DNS servers" and add the following values in the boxes:

8.8.8.8

8.8.4.4 6. Press OK and Reboot your computer.

[Update 2/1/19]

The issue has started to correct for those who are affected. It is expected to be fully fixed in the next 24 hours or so.

[Added 2/5/19:]

You can try restarting the network router simply which should refresh the things if you do not want to change DNS in Windows.

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Answer accepted by question author

Anonymous

We are aware of a service-side issue where some customers are still unable to connect or download updates from the Windows Update service. We are actively investigating this issue. Thank you for your patience.

Paul...

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175 additional answers

Anonymous

2019-02-02T20:58:57+00:00

I think its been corrected and other then changing DNS you can reboot your router and modem. This can rest DNS addresses and sometimes fix the issue. I have Comcast broadband and can confirm their DNS servers were experiencing this issue. But has since been corrected.
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Anonymous

2019-01-31T16:13:59+00:00

I have the same question
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Anonymous

2019-02-04T11:10:32+00:00
Hi Geoff, Windows Update is working fine here in West Sussex! I am on BT Internet and have had the Update Service working fine since yesterday. I would suggest that, if you have'nt tried this yet, restarting the router by pressing the 'Restart' or 'Reset' button on the router. If that fails to resolve the issue try the fix that involves changing the DNS values. That worked for me on Friday when I first discovered the issue. Yesterday I reverted back to the original DNS setting, did a router reset and everything has been working since then. I just did a windows update check before typing this and it's still working fine!

To change the DNS, perform the following steps:
1. Press Windows key+R to open Run dialog box.
2. Type in ncpa.cpl and press Enter.
3. Right-click the device in the Network list through which you connect and choose Properties.
4. Select Internet Protocol version 4and choose properties just below the Checkbox list.
5. Select the radio button "Use the following DNS servers" and add the following values in the boxes:
8.8.8.8

8.8.4.4 6. Press OK and Reboot your computer.
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2 people found this answer helpful.

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