Resolve Windows Update Error 0x80240031 in Windows 10 Easily

When installing the Windows 10 Anniversary Update, you might encounter the frustrating error code 0x80240031. This error typically occurs around 40% of the installation process and can be caused by various issues such as corrupted system files, incompatible drivers, or software conflicts. Below are several solutions to resolve this issue.

How can I fix the Windows update error 0x80240031?​

1. Perform a Clean Boot​

1. Press Windows Key + S on your keyboard.
2. Type “msconfig” and press Enter to open System Configuration.
3. Click the Services tab.
4. Check the box for Hide all Microsoft services.
5. Click Disable all.
6. Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
7. Disable all startup items in the Task Manager.
8. Exit Task Manager and return to System Configuration, then click OK.
9. Restart your PC.

Performing a clean boot helps eliminate software conflicts that can interfere with the update process. After the update, you can restart your computer in normal mode by reversing the steps above.

2. Repair Damaged System Files​

1. Click the Search icon on your taskbar and type “Command Prompt”.
2. Right-click Command Prompt in the results and select Run as Administrator.
3. Type the following command and press Enter:dism /online /Cleanup-image /restorehealth
   

This process will repair any damaged system files that might be preventing the update from completing. Ensure you do not interrupt this process.

3. Disable Your Graphics Card Driver​

1. Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “devmgmt.msc” and press Enter.
3. Expand the Display Adapters category.
4. Right-click your graphics card and select Properties.
5. Go to the Driver tab and select Disable.
6. Click OK and restart your PC.

Disabling your graphics card driver can help resolve conflicts that cause the update error. Remember to re-enable your graphics card driver after updating.

4. Run the Windows update troubleshooter​

1. Press Windows + I to open the Windows Settings app.
2. Go to Update & Security.
3. Click Troubleshoot, then select Additional troubleshooters.
4. From the list of troubleshooters, click Windows Update, then click the Run the troubleshooter button.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

5. Run an SFC Scan​

1. Click the Search icon on your taskbar and type “cmd”.
2. Right-click Command Prompt in the results and select Run as Administrator.
3. Type the following command and press Enter:sfc /scannow
   

The System File Checker (SFC) will scan and repair system files, which could resolve the update error.

6. Disable or Uninstall Antivirus Software​

1. Temporarily disable or uninstall any third-party antivirus software you have installed.
2. Restart your computer and attempt the update again.

Antivirus software can sometimes interfere with the update process. Disabling or uninstalling it might resolve the error.

7. Update Drivers​

1. Download and install a driver update tool like Auslogics Driver Updater or Driver Talent.
2. Scan your system for outdated or incompatible drivers.
3. Update all the recommended drivers.
4. Restart your PC.

Keeping your drivers up to date ensures compatibility with Windows updates and can resolve many update-related issues.

By following these solutions, you should be able to resolve the Windows 10 error code 0x80240031 and complete your update successfully. If you encounter further issues, consider consulting a professional for more advanced troubleshooting.