Solved: Windows Update currently cannot check for updates on Windows 8, 7 or Vista – wintips.org

Windows Update Error “Windows Update can’t check for updates right now because the service is down. You may need to restart your computer” probably appears when the Windows temporary update folder (SoftwareDistribution folder) is corrupted. Follow the steps below in this guide to fix this error easily.

How to resolve Windows (8, 7 or Vista) update error: “Windows Update can’t check for updates right now because the service is down” when checking for updates.

Solution 1: Fix Windows Update can’t check for updates” error using Microsoft Fix It utility

Update: Unfortunately, Microsoft has removed the FixIt utility. So, ignore this solution and move on to solution 2.

1. Download Microsoft Fix it utility to your computer: https://support.microsoft.com/kb/2730071.

2. Running Microsoft fix tool and “Accept it“.

3. selectIdentify issues and apply fixes for me (Recommended)” option.

4. Let the troubleshooter fix it Windows update problems and click “The next one“. *

* If the problem is resolved, close the troubleshooter and check for Windows updates again. Otherwise, go to solution 2.

Solution 2: Manually resolve Windows Update can’t check for updates” error.

Step 1: Stop Windows Update.

For this:

a. Click at the same time Windows key + R to open the run command window.

b. Enter the following in the Run command window: services.msc and press Enter.

c. search Windows Update servicethen right click on it and select Stop.

d. Proceed to the next step without closing the Services window.

Step 2: Delete or rename the Windows Update temporary storage folder.

For this:

a. open”My computerGo to ” and “C: Windows” folder.

b. Delete (or Change the name for example, “SoftwareDistributionOLD“) “Software distribution” folder.

Step 3: Run Windows Update.

a. Go to Windows Services and “Start“ Windows update service.

b. Try updating Windows again.

Solution 3: Install the standalone update KB3102810.

1. Download and install security update KB3102810. After installation, restart your computer and check for updates. (Applies to: Windows 7 SP1 and Windows Server 2008 R2 SP1.)
2. Restart your computer.
3. Stop the Windows Update service. (See Solution 2: Step 1)
4. Delete the software distribution folder. (See Solution 2: Step 2)
5. Restart your computer and then check for updates. Leave your computer for about an hour to find updates.

Solution 4: Update the Intel Rapid Storage Technology driver.

Install the latest Intel Rapid Storage Technology driver (Intel RST). *

Source: http://support.hp.com/gb-en/document/c02219204

* You can download the latest RSTS driver from your computer manufacturer’s website or from the Intel® Rapid Storage Technology (Intel® RST) Download Center.

Hope this helps!