Error Code 0x80070160: Causes and Solutions

Error code 0x80070160 is a common Windows error that can appear during various operations, such as updating your operating system or installing new software. This article will delve into the causes of this error and provide several solutions to help you resolve it.

What Is Error Code 0x80070160?

Error code 0x80070160 typically indicates a problem with accessing or writing data to your hard drive. This can manifest as a message stating "Windows cannot install required files," "The file is corrupt," or "There was an error installing the update."

What Causes Error Code 0x80070160?

Several factors can contribute to this error, including:

  • Insufficient Disk Space: If your hard drive is nearly full, there may not be enough space available for Windows to download and install updates or new software.
  • Corrupted System Files: Damaged system files can interfere with the installation process, leading to error 0x80070160.
  • Antivirus Interference: Sometimes, antivirus software can mistakenly block essential files needed for installation, resulting in this error.
  • Hardware Issues: In rare cases, problems with your hard drive or other hardware components could contribute to the issue.

Affected Operating Systems

Error code 0x80070160 can occur on various versions of Windows, including Windows 7, Windows 8/8.1, and Windows 10.

Programs Commonly Affected

This error often appears during:

  • Windows Updates: Installation of major Windows updates or security patches
  • Software Installations: Installing new programs or games
  • Driver Updates: Updating device drivers for hardware components

How to Solve Error Code 0x80070160

Try the following solutions to resolve error code 0x80070160:

Run Disk Cleanup

Run Disk Cleanup to free up space on your hard drive. To do this:

  1. Type "disk cleanup" into the search bar and select Disk Cleanup.
  2. Choose the drive where Windows is installed and click OK.
  3. Select the files you want to delete and click OK again.

Check for Corrupted System Files

Use the System File Checker tool (SFC) to scan for and repair corrupted system files.

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
  2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  3. Let the scan complete.

Disable Antivirus Temporarily

Temporarily disable your antivirus software during the installation process. Remember to re-enable it afterward.

Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Windows includes a built-in troubleshooter for addressing update issues:

  1. Go to Settings (Windows key + I).
  2. Select Update & Security.
  3. Click Troubleshoot and then choose Windows Update.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Reset Windows Update Components

Resetting the Windows Update components can often resolve issues:

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
  2. Run the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
  • net stop wuauserv
  • net stop cryptSvc
  • net stop bits
  • net stop msiserver
  • ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
  • ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.old

Check Disk for Errors

Use the chkdsk utility to scan your hard drive for errors:

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
  2. Type chkdsk /f /r and press Enter.

Note: This command may require a system restart.

If error code 0x80070160 persists after trying these solutions, you may need to contact Microsoft support for further assistance.

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