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0x80073712Component store corruptedError codeWidely reported

0x80073712: what it means and how to fix it

Updated Oct 24, 2026 · Checked against Microsoft documentation · How this page is made

Quick answer

Error 0x80073712 indicates that Windows Update cannot install updates because files required by the component store are corrupted, missing, or blocked. A documented cause involves conflicts when Windows Sandbox is active during system updates. Running the update troubleshooter or installing the latest servicing build resolves the problem.

What it means

Windows Update relies on a dedicated subsystem called the component store to manage, track, and apply operating system packages. When error 0x80073712 appears, Windows is signaling that a file or manifest needed to finalize an update cannot be read or processed correctly. As a result, the update process halts to prevent partial or broken installations from making the operating system unstable.### Why the error occursDuring normal operation, Windows downloads package payloads, checks their integrity against local component records, and commits the changes. If any system component record is damaged, missing, or locked by an active feature, the servicing engine returns error 0x80073712. Official documentation highlights that specific features such as Windows Sandbox can interfere with update installations on certain releases, including preview builds of Windows 11. When Windows Sandbox is enabled, the servicing stack may encounter unexpected file conflicts while staging update files, triggering an immediate rollback and reporting 0x80073712.### What the error means for your PCYour computer will continue to function normally for daily tasks, but it will remain unable to install the specific update that encountered the failure. You may see recurring update failure notices accompanied by messages stating that some update files are missing or have problems. Because unpatched systems miss security improvements and performance fixes, resolving this error is necessary to keep Windows current. In most situations, the underlying operating system files remain intact; only the update staging files or their feature dependencies need adjustment.

Common causes

  • Windows Sandbox is enabled, causing servicing conflicts during update installations.
  • Files or manifests in the Windows component store are missing, damaged, or incomplete.
  • A previous update failed mid-process and left cached installation files in an invalid state.

How to fix it

Safest and most likely fixes first. Readers' answers to "Did this fix it?" reorder this list over time.

  1. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter

    Try this first to allow Windows to identify and repair servicing components automatically.

    1. Open Settings from the Start menu.
    2. Select System, then select Troubleshoot.
    3. Click Other troubleshooters.
    4. Locate Windows Update in the list and click Run.
    5. Follow any on-screen recommendations and restart your computer.
    Did this fix it?

  2. Temporarily turn off Windows Sandbox

    Use this if you have Windows Sandbox active and updates consistently fail with error 0x80073712.

    1. Open Windows Search and type Turn Windows features on or off.
    2. Select the matching control panel result to open the Windows Features dialog.
    3. Scroll through the list and locate Windows Sandbox.
    4. Clear the checkbox next to Windows Sandbox.
    5. Click OK to apply the change, then restart your PC when prompted.
    6. Open Settings, navigate to Windows Update, and attempt the update again.
    Did this fix it?

  3. Install the latest preview build or quality update

    Use this if your system is enrolled in preview channels where Microsoft has deployed a dedicated fix, such as Build 26340.9616.

    1. Open Settings and select Windows Update.
    2. Click Check for updates to query the update servers.
    3. Allow Windows to download Build 26340.9616 or any newer available build.
    4. Select Restart now once the installation completes downloading and preparing.
    Did this fix it?

Is it just you?

25+ Microsoft Q&A threads discuss this, 2 active in the last 30 days. Most recent activity:

Checked Oct 23, 2026. Refreshed automatically every few days.

Sources

Frequently asked questions

What causes error 0x80073712 in Windows Update?

The error occurs when Windows cannot find or read files required to update system components, frequently linked to feature conflicts such as enabled Windows Sandbox or damaged update cache files.

Does error 0x80073712 damage my personal files?

No, this error only affects the staging and installation of Windows updates and does not harm your personal documents, photos, or installed programs.

Can disabling Windows Sandbox resolve 0x80073712?

Yes, turning off Windows Sandbox in Windows Features resolves the update installation conflict on builds affected by this bug.

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