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

Sumit 44,306 Reputation points Volunteer Moderator
2019-01-31T15:06:11+00:00

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"

Windows for home | Windows 10 | Windows update

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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Sumit 44,306 Reputation points Volunteer Moderator
2019-01-31T15:13:29+00:00

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:

  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 4 and 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.

[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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Anonymous
2019-02-04T21:46:16+00:00

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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  1. Anonymous
    2019-02-06T15:27:07+00:00

    Thank you.

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  2. Anonymous
    2019-02-06T13:50:34+00:00

    Probably a bit off-subject.

    Take a look at ZDnet for more information on ISP's affected, but I don't recall seeing anything like yours.

    I'm assuming your "About" in System is OK for 1803/1809.

    Your application error might not be anything to do with the update outage, so it might be worth digging around in this community for items closer to your application.

    I'm sure there are plenty of alternatives to Money for stock prices.

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  3. Anonymous
    2019-02-06T13:37:29+00:00

    Hi tigger,

    Thx for your reply.

    Yes,  Updates are working and also the check for new updates.

    I just tried without setting the DNS but it still shows the error.

    Actually for me it only happens if I open the app "Money" from the Microsoft Store and try to check the watchlist of my stock. Everything else is fine. Only the watchlist shows up this phenomenon.

    ISP is China Unicom, sometimes I`m connection via VPN to Netherlands (not sure if this makes an difference, but no change for this phenomenon.

    Thanks!

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