How to Fix Windows 11 Error 0x80070001 During Install or Update

Encountering error 0x80070001 during a Windows 11 installation or update can be a frustrating experience. This cryptic code often pops up with messages about missing files, insufficient disk space, or unsupported configurations, effectively halting your progress. But don’t worry! This comprehensive guide breaks down the common causes of error 0x80070001 and provides actionable solutions to get your Windows 11 setup or update back on track. Whether you’re upgrading from an older version or performing a fresh install, understanding these fixes will empower you to overcome this hurdle and enjoy a smooth Windows 11 experience.

1. Convert Dynamic Disk to Basic Disk: A Crucial First Step

One of the most frequent culprits behind error 0x80070001 is the disk configuration itself. Windows 11 installations and updates often struggle when the operating system is installed on a dynamic disk rather than a basic disk. Dynamic disks offer advanced features like software RAID, but they can create compatibility issues during the upgrade or installation process.

Here’s how to resolve this:

1- Back Up Your Data: Before making any changes, back up all important data from the affected drive. Converting to a basic disk using Windows’ built-in tools requires deleting all existing volumes. Consider using third-party tools if you want to avoid data loss.

2- Open Disk Management: Press Win + R, type diskmgmt.msc, and press Enter.

3- Delete Volumes (If Necessary): Right-click each volume on the dynamic disk and select “Delete Volume.”

4- Convert to Basic Disk: After deleting all volumes, right-click the disk and choose “Convert to Basic Disk.”

5- Alternative: Use a Third-Party Tool: Tools like MiniTool Partition Wizard can convert from dynamic to basic without data loss. Launch the tool, select the dynamic disk, choose “Convert Dynamic Disk to Basic,” and apply the change. Always verify your data is intact after conversion.

6- Retry the Installation/Update: Once the disk has been converted, restart your Windows 11 installation or update process.

2. Select the Previous Version of Setup During Installation: A Quick Fix for 24H2

If you are installing Windows 11 24H2, especially using a bootable USB created with tools like Ventoy or Rufus, you might encounter error 0x80070001 – 0x4002f before selecting the disk. The current setup routine may have compatibility issues with particular hardware or USB configurations.

Here’s how to fix this:

1. Boot from USB: Restart your PC and boot from your Windows 11 installation USB.
2. Look for “Previous Version of Setup”: When the “Select setup option” window appears, find “Previous Version of Setup” in the lower-left corner.
3. Launch Legacy Installer: Click this option. This action will launch the legacy installer process.
4. Continue with Installation: Continue with the installation as usual. Many users have had success using this method, specifically on 24H2 ISOs.

3. Reformat Your USB Drive: Ensuring the Right File System

A poorly formatted bootable USB drive can prevent Windows 11 setup from accessing the necessary files, resulting in error 0x80070001. The correct file system and partition scheme are vital for a smooth installation.

Follow these steps:

1. Insert the USB Drive: Insert the USB drive into your PC.
2. Format the Drive: Open “This PC,” right-click the USB drive, and select “Format.”
3. Choose NTFS: Select “NTFS” as the file system.
4. Match Partition Scheme: If using a tool like Rufus or Ventoy, make sure you select the correct partition scheme (MBR or GPT) that matches your system’s firmware (BIOS or UEFI).
5. Recreate the Bootable USB: Recreate your bootable USB using the official Media Creation Tool or the latest version of Rufus for optimal compatibility.

4. Free Up Disk Space and Remove Unneeded Partitions: Addressing Potential Conflicts

Even with plenty of free space, Windows setup can misinterpret disk usage if there are too many partitions or remnants from previous installations. The error message may display as, “We can’t tell if your PC has enough space to continue installing Windows 11.”

Here’s how to clean things up:

1. Back Up Important Data: Back up all crucial files from all drives targeted for Windows installation.
2. Boot from USB: Boot from your Windows 11 USB.
3. Delete Existing Partitions: At the disk selection screen, use the “Delete” option to remove all existing partitions on the target disk. This process clears hidden system, EFI, and recovery partitions that may be conflicting with the setup.
4. Create a New Partition: Select the resulting unallocated space, click “New,” and create a single partition for your Windows installation.
5. Proceed with Setup: Continue with the setup process.

5. Check and Repair System Files: Ensuring OS Integrity

Corrupted system files or Windows images can cause installation and update failures. Running the built-in repair tools will help restore missing or damaged files required for the setup.

Here’s how to do it:

1- Open Command Prompt: Open Command Prompt as an administrator.

2- Run System File Checker: Type sfc /scannow and press Enter. The System File Checker will scan and attempt to repair any corrupted system files.

3- Run DISM (If SFC Fails): If SFC reports unfixable issues, run the following commands one by one:

• DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth

• DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth

• DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

4- Restart and Retry: Restart your computer and retry the installation or update.

6. Modify or Clean Up Registry Entries: Addressing Update Conflicts

Residual Windows Update registry entries can interfere with upgrades or installations. Removing outdated or conflicting keys can resolve persistent errors.

Follow these steps:

1- Open Registry Editor: Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.

2- Navigate to the Key: Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WindowsUpdate.

3- Delete Values: In the right panel, delete the “WUServer” and “WIStatusServer” values if present.

4- Restart: Close the Registry Editor and restart your PC before attempting the update again.

7. Switch Tools or Download Official ISOs: Using Reliable Resources

Using unofficial or outdated tools to create ISOs or bootable media can introduce compatibility problems. Errors are more probable if the installation files are not from Microsoft or if the USB creation tool does not fully support the latest builds.

Here’s the best approach:

1. Download the Official ISO: Download the Windows 11 ISO directly from Microsoft’s website.
2. Use Official Tools: Employ the official Media Creation Tool or the latest version of Rufus to create your installation USB. Avoid using ISOs from third-party sources or older tools.

8. Temporarily Disable Antivirus and Unplug Peripherals: Minimizing Interference

Security software and unnecessary peripherals can obstruct Windows setup routines, blocking file access, or causing hardware conflicts.

Here’s what to do:

1. Disable Antivirus: Temporarily disable third-party antivirus programs and, if possible, Windows Defender Firewall.
2. Disconnect Peripherals: Disconnect all non-essential external devices, such as printers, scanners, USB hubs, and external drives. Only connect the keyboard and mouse.
3. Retry the Process: Retry the installation or update process.

9. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter: An Automated Solution

For update errors occurring within Windows (not during a clean install), the built-in Windows Update Troubleshooter can automatically detect and resolve common problems.

Here’s how to use it:

1- Open Settings: Open “Settings,” go to “System” > “Troubleshoot” > “Other troubleshooters.”

2- Run Windows Update Troubleshooter: Click “Run” next to “Windows Update.”

3- Follow Instructions: Follow the on-screen instructions, applying any recommended fixes.

4- Restart: Restart after troubleshooting and check if the error is resolved.

Conclusion:

Successfully resolving error 0x80070001 on Windows 11 requires a systematic approach. By systematically addressing disk configurations, USB formatting issues, and potential conflicts, you can get your Windows 11 installation or update completed successfully. Remember, if one method doesn’t work, don’t give up! Try the next solution on this list until you find the one that fits your particular situation.

With the troubleshooting steps outlined in this guide, you are now equipped to tackle error 0x80070001 and restore your Windows 11 update or installation.