Error 0x80070103 usually happens when Windows Update tries to install a driver that is already installed, older than the current driver, or not needed for the device. It looks serious, but it is often harmless.
This applies to Windows 10 and Windows 11 driver updates, especially USB, printer, and hardware drivers.
Does This Affect You?
If normal security updates still install and only one driver update fails, hiding that unnecessary driver update is often the right fix.
Hide the Problem Driver Update
- Run the Windows Update troubleshooter from Settings or search.
- If it does not offer a hide option, download Microsoft’s Show or hide updates troubleshooter from Microsoft Support.
- Open the tool and choose Hide updates.
- Select the driver update causing 0x80070103.
- Finish the tool, restart, and check Windows Update again.
Reset Windows Update Components
- Open Command Prompt as administrator.
- Stop update services with
net stop wuauserv,net stop bits, andnet stop cryptsvc. - Rename cache folders:
ren C:WindowsSoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.oldandren C:WindowsSystem32catroot2 catroot2.old. - Restart services with
net start wuauserv,net start bits, andnet start cryptsvc. - Restart and check again.
Confirm Whether You Need a Driver
Check Current Driver Version
Open Device Manager, open the affected device properties, and check the Driver tab for version and date.
Compare with the Manufacturer
Search the hardware maker’s support page for the exact model. If its driver matches or is older than yours, the failed Windows Update driver is not needed.
Install Manually if Needed
If the manufacturer offers a genuinely newer driver, install that package directly instead of relying on Windows Update.
Sources
- Microsoft Support: Windows Update error codes
- Microsoft Support: Update drivers manually in Windows
- Microsoft Support: Fix Windows Update errors