5 Easy Fixes to Resolve Windows Update Error 0x80072efe

Stuck with Windows update error code 0x80072efe on your device? This issue most commonly occurs when you’re trying to upgrade your Windows to the latest version. The occurrence of this error code is directly related to connectivity issues on your Windows machine that puts a hindrance to run the update assistant successfully.

But don’t worry. This issue can easily be fixed through simple troubleshooting and by making a few tweaks in system settings.

Also read: How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80240034.

What Causes Windows Update Error Code 0x80072efe?

To install a new update, your device needs to make an authenticated connection with Microsoft servers. And by any chance, if the installation process doesn’t meet the set criteria, your device is unable to upgrade or install the new version.

Error code 0x80072efe most commonly occurs when your machine’s date and time settings are not set properly. Hence, it is one of the most simple and effective workarounds to get past this issue. Apart from adjusting the date and time settings on your system, you can also try different solutions to fix update error 0x80072efe that includes checking the Internet connection, disabling VPN service or Firewall, resetting network settings, and more.

Also read: Easily Fix Windows Update 0x80070422 Error Code

How to Fix Windows Update Error Code 0x80072efe?

Let’s discuss each of these methods in detail to resolve this specific Windows update issue.

Solution #1: Adjust Date & Time Settings

Tap the Windows icon, open Windows Settings.

Select “Time and Language.” Switch to the “Date and Time” option from the left menu pane.

Here you can assess whether the date and time settings on your machine are rightly set or not. If not, then tap the “Set time automatically” button to set an accurate date and time as per your time zone.

Reboot your device, and then again try updating your device to the new version to check whether you’re still facing the issue.

Solution #2: Check Internet Connection

As we mentioned earlier, the error code 0x80072efe can also be caused due to connectivity issues. To fix this, you need to check your Internet connection thoroughly, whether your device is receiving enough bandwidth and signals. You can also try rebooting the WiFi router or plug/unplug the LAN cable to check whether it makes any difference.

Solution #3: Disable Windows Defender Firewall

There are times when the presence of Windows Defender Firewall interrupts you from downloading any new program or app on your device. So, in case Windows Defender Firewall is barring you from installing a new Windows update, you can try disabling it temporarily.

Launch the Start menu search, enter “Control Panel,” and hit Enter.

In the Control Panel, head on to Windows Defender Firewall settings and tap on the “Turn Off Windows Defender Firewall” option for public and private network settings.

After disabling the Windows Defender Firewall, try to upgrade your machine again to check whether your system could install the update successfully.

Solution #4: Disable VPN

Is your device installed with any VPN service? If yes, then try disabling the VPN service until the update process is successfully executed. You can either uninstall the VPN service and re-install it after upgrading to the latest Windows version.

Solution #5: Use Network Troubleshooter

Network Troubleshooter is an in-built Windows utility tool that allows you to scan and fix network and connectivity issues on your device. To use the Network Troubleshooter, follow these quick steps.

Launch the Start menu search, type “Network Troubleshooter” in the search box, and hit Enter.

Tap on “Identify and Repair network connections.”

Follow the on-screen instructions to run the Windows Network Troubleshooter wizard.

Wait for a few minutes until the Network Troubleshooter runs a complete scan on your device.

Also read: How To Fix Windows Update Error 0x800705b4

Download Systweak Antivirus

To add an extra layer of protection to your Windows device, download Systweak Antivirus software today. Systweak Antivirus offers real-time protection against viruses, malware, ransomware, trojans, spyware, or any malicious threat.

Apart from offering an all-round exploit and malware protection, Systweak Antivirus also provides you advanced features where you can clean up malicious startup items to optimize your device’s performance.

We hope the above-mentioned solutions will help you fix error code 0x80072efe on Windows 10 device. For any other queries or assistance, feel free to drop us a comment!