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
    2019-02-05T17:49:21+00:00

    Hi swinside, thank you for your kind comments! However it wasn't Microsoft who fixed the issue it was actually the various ISP's who had suffered a corruption of data. It was Comcast in the US and BT and PlusNet in the UK. It was a pity that it took them so long to fix it but I suppose it's a case of better late than never! I know that Microsoft often leaves itself open to criticism at times but in this particular case Microsoft weren't responsible!

    There's a very informative article on www.zdnet.com that gives you a complete rundown on what happened.

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  2. Anonymous
    2019-02-05T17:35:01+00:00

    Dear Derek.

    Thank you for your detailed reply.

    Microsoft appear to have fixed it so I don't need to do anything.

    Once again thank you for your time and effort.

    Kind regards.

    Swinside.

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  3. Anonymous
    2019-02-05T17:24:37+00:00

    Is fixed. Thank you

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