Fix 0x80188309 Windows Update error

If you try to keep your PC up-to-date and get the Windows Update error 0x80188309, this post is for you. In this article, I will explain the best working solutions to fix the issue and update your Windows 11/10 device.

Windows updates come with newer security features and other fixes that were not in the previous version. Once the updates are available, you should download and install them as soon as you see them. You can also enable the automatic updates feature to allow your PC to install them automatically.

Why do I get 0x80188309 Windows Update error?

The Windows Update error 0x80188309 (E_REGISTRY_COLLISION) could mean that there is a conflict between packages in the registry settings. The error can also be triggered by corrupted system files, a deactivated Windows Update service, or cache files associated with the update process. There could also be a temporary technical hitch in your system that can be easily fixed by restarting your PC or by running a Windows Update troubleshooter.

Fix Windows Update Error 0x80188309

If you get the 0x80188309 Windows Update error when installing system cumulative updates, we recommend trying the following methods to fix the issue:

1. Perform general steps
2. Restart Windows Update and Windows Installer service
3. Clear SoftwareDistribution folder
4. Run Windows Update troubleshooter
5. Download and install updates offline
6. Repair System Image.

Let us now explain these solutions in detail.

1] Perform general steps

Performing general or preliminary steps can fix the temporary causes of the issue. Start with the following steps before you head to more advanced solutions:

• Restart your computer & router and try to download and install the update.
• Check your internet connection. An unstable network can prevent your system from downloading and installing Windows updates.
• Run the SetupDiag tool to establish why Windows is not updating or upgrading.
• Check if your PC has enough memory.
• Unplug any hardware component connected to your device.

If none work, try the other solutions below.

2] Restart Windows Update and Windows Installer service

Windows Update relies on certain services to run. Restarting these services allows the updates to run smoothly. To do this, follow the steps below:

• Open the Run dialog by pressing the Windows key + R, typing services.msc, and then pressing Enter on your keyboard.
• Next, look for Windows Update and Windows Installer services, each at a time.
• Right-click each and select Restart.
• Run the update again and check if the error is resolved.

3] Clear SoftwareDistribution folder

Clearing the Windows Update cache files in the SoftwareDistribution folder ensures that the system creates new working ones. Follow the steps to clear cache files in the folder.

• Open your File Explorer and select Drive C.
• Next, open the Windows folder.
• Locate and open the SoftwareDistribution folder.
• Clear everything in the DataStore and Download folders.
• Restart your PC and see if the error has been fixed.

4] Run Windows Update troubleshooter

Running the Windows Update troubleshooter can fix issues triggering the 0x80188309 Windows Update error. Follow the steps below:

• Press the Windows button + I to open the Settings app.
• Go to Systems, and on the right side, select Troubleshoot.
• Next, click on Other troubleshooters.
• Next to Windows Update, click Run to initiate the process.
• Let the tool automatically detect issues, and it will inform you if you need to do anything further.

5] Download and install updates offline

This method is not necessarily a fix, but it’s a great way to ensure that your Windows is always updated. If the automatic update is showing an error, you can always try to update manually and offline. Follow the steps below:

• Open the Windows Settings app and go to Update & Security > Windows Update.
• Look for the View update history option and click it.
• Next, look for the KB number of the update that is failing or showing the 0x80188309 error.
• Visit the Microsoft Update Catalog page and search for the version using the KB number.
• Finally, download the correct version and install it manually. Installing it will not require an internet connection.

This should work for you.

Read: Fix 0x80248014 Windows Update Error

6] Repair System Image

If a Windows image becomes unserviceable, you can use the Deployment Imaging and Servicing Management (DISM) tool to update the files and correct the problem. In the case of system inconsistencies and corruption, you can use the DISM tool by using the Cleanup-Image functionality along with these available switches. To do this, you should Run the DISM Tool.

If nothing helps, check your CBS logs located at C:\Windows\Logs\CBS\.

Read: Windows Update fails to install or will not download in Windows

Why does my computer keep failing to install updates?

Your computer may fail to install updates due to insufficient disk space, corrupted system files, outdated drivers, or disabled Windows Update services. Those are the main causes of Windows Update errors. You can use the methods in this post to fix the problem.