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Fix Windows Update Error 0x800f081f

· 2 min read
Luke Murray
Luke Murray
Author

The Windows Update error 0x800f081f typically occurs when Windows cannot reach the update servers. A common cause is a corrupted or stale DNS cache that prevents name resolution for Microsoft's update endpoints.

Method 1: Flush the DNS cache​

  1. Click Start > All Programs > Accessories.

  2. Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as Administrator.

  3. Type the following command and press Enter:

    ipconfig /flushdns

  4. Restart your computer and try Windows Update again.

Flushing the DNS cache clears any stale or corrupted DNS entries, forcing Windows to perform fresh lookups when connecting to the update servers.

Method 2: Use Google DNS​

If flushing the DNS cache does not resolve the issue, your ISP's DNS servers may be causing the problem. Switching to Google's public DNS servers can bypass this:

  1. Click Start > Control Panel.
  2. Click Network and Sharing Center (or Network).
  3. Click Change Adapter Settings on the left.
  4. Right-click Local Area Connection (or Wireless Connection if on Wi-Fi) and select Properties.
  5. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and click Properties.
  6. Select Use the following DNS server addresses.
  7. Enter:
    • Preferred DNS server: 8.8.8.8
    • Alternate DNS server: 8.8.4.4
  8. Click Ok to save.
  9. Restart your computer and try Windows Update again.

Note: Changing your DNS server routes all DNS queries through Google's servers instead of your ISP's. Depending on your location and ISP, this may slightly affect browsing speed (faster or slower).

Other causes of 0x800f081f​

If neither method works, the error can also be caused by:

  • Corrupted system files - Run sfc /scannow in an elevated Command Prompt to check and repair Windows system files.
  • Missing .NET Framework source files - If the error occurs when installing .NET Framework features, you may need to specify an alternative source path using DISM.