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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Answer accepted by question author
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
    2019-02-02T14:39:27+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"

    0c+3EHrdo0S/b7A8.34

    the dns done it for me did you restart computer

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  2. Anonymous
    2019-02-02T12:28:24+00:00

    Changing DNS worked thank you for the info.In future though could Microsoft put out a general notice informing of problems such as this, which would I am sure be appreciated and save a lot of angst.

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  3. Anonymous
    2019-02-02T11:57:04+00:00

    I wish that fixed it for me but tried various DNS servers none work, tried a few different devices at home, all same no update so likely ISP has not updated DNS issue, as a friend of mine on a different ISP can update fine. BT UK is my useless ISP.

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