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
    2019-02-03T08:48:23+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"

    I tried Sumit's DNS (8.8.8.8 > 8.8.4.4) solution twice over the last two days and it didn't work. Tried again today and it works. So my advice is if it didn't work before, give it another go. Maybe the service providers are correcting the issue but it need a little help from your end.

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  2. Anonymous
    2019-02-03T08:37:09+00:00

    change dns server to google server  8888

                                                               6644

    it explains how to do this at the begining of this with sumit-windows

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  3. Anonymous
    2019-02-03T06:32:49+00:00

    Nice question regarding windows update says we cannot connect .

    I was also having same problem now it has been solved.

    Keep it up .

    Pune Laundry

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