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Facing error 0x80004005 windows 10 can be a frustrating experience especially when you do not understand what does it mean and what causes it to become an issue all of the sudden. The worst part? It’s called an “unspecified error”, makes it even more confusing to users. But, do not worry – this guide explains it in a simple and human-friendly way. And you’ll know what causes it, when it happens, and how to repair it without getting lost in technical mumbo-jumbo.
What Does Error 0x80004005 Windows 10 Mean?
Error 0x80004005 is a windows unspecific error. This means that Windows saw a problem, but was not able to describe it precisely. It commonly appears during:
- Windows update
- Extracting Files (ZIP Files / RAR Files)
- Accessing Shared Folders and Drives
- Booting up virtual machines (VirtualBox, Hyper-V)
- Outlook issues by Microsoft (e-mail sync issues).
Although it says “unspecified” the error usually has something to do with corrupt files, permission issues, update mistups or system misconfigurations.
Common Time In Getting Error 0x80004005 Windows 10
- During Windows Update – You can feel this error error when you want to download or install updates.
- While Extracting ZIP / RAR Files – If the file under consideration is either corrupt or Windows do not have any permissions then file extraction may fail.
- Accessing the Shared Network Drives – Sometimes, there is the situation when Windows is blocking the shared folders for the perspective of the permission or security issue.
- Virtual Machine Failure at Start up – This error is normally found as users of VirtualBox or Hyper-V. error when starting virtual machine.
Why Does the Error Happen?
Here are some common causes:
- Corrupt system files / Missing system files
- Incomplete installation of windows updates
- Incorrectly Made Registry Settings
- Incorrect network/folder sharing permissions
- Restriction to access (antivirus/firewall
- Zip / Rex: Zip / rar damaged compressed files
- Errors when setting up Virtual machine
Simple Fixes for Error 0x80004005
Depending on the appearing of the error let’s get to know about some of human-friendly solutions.
1. Resolve 0x80004005 error during the Windows Updates
Step 1: Run Troubleshooter for Windows Update
Go to Settings, Update & Security, Troubleshoot
Select Windows Update
Click on Run the troubleshooter
This automatically detects and fixes basic problems relating to updates.
Step 2: Clear up Windows Update Temporary Files
Press Win + R, type: C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download
Delete all the files within the folder
Restart your computer and try to update again
Step 3: Execute System Repair Command
Start command prompt root – administrator
On the next line type in following and press enter: sfc /scannow
This is used to fix messy system files.
2. Unable To Extract Zip Or Rar Files Fix Error 0x80004005
Solution 1: WinRAR or 7-Zip as Alternative of Windows Extractor
Sometimes, Windows extraction tool doesn’t work, however, 3rd party tools works fine.
Solution 2: Maintain Tracking of File Permissions
Right-Click on the Properties Security of the ZIP file Make sure that your user has full access.
Solution 3: Download the File Again
The ZIP/RAR file is permitted to be corrupted.
3. Fixing the Problem Accessing Shared Folders/Drives
Step 1: Enable Network Sharing
Go to Control Panel/ Network and Sharing Center
Turn on:
Network Discovery
File and Printer Sharing
Step 2: Check Permissions of the Folder
Right-click on the Properties of its folder
Allow Sharing of this folder, Full control
Step 3: Go to Third party Antivirus and Disable Temporarily
Due to possible security concerns, network sharing access is likely to be blocked by security tools.
4. Fix error using Virtual Machines (VirtualBox/Hyper-V)
For VirtualBox Users:
Go to Settings > Network
Change Adapter Type/Hyper-V disabled
Enable Virtualization from the Bios
Restart computer -> Into Bios/Uefi (F2/F10/F12/DEL key)
Enable Intel VT-x or AMD-V
5. Solve error 0x80004005 outlook Microsoft
Step 1: Clean the Temporary Outlook Files
Press Win + R
Type %localappdata%\Microsoft\Outlook
Remove contents within the folder
Step 2: Reset Email Account
Go to file –> Account Settings –> Remove and Re-add account
Step 3: Turning off Antivirus for Email Filtering
General Fix – Fix Registry Issues (Advanced Users)
Note: Make modifications to registry only if you have knowledge about it.
Steps:
Press Win + R, type regedit
Go to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System
Delete LocalAccountTokenFilterPolicy if applied
Restart computer
Final Thoughts
Error 0x80004005 error in windows 10 might sound complicated since it’s labeled as an “unspecified error” however, in reality, it often has something to do with something simple such as file corruption, security permissions or software configuration issues The good news? It can be fixed very easily with simple troubleshooting – not requiring any techie knowledge.
The secret is knowing when the mistake is occurring that helps in the application of the correct solution. Try the step by step fixes mentioned above in most cases you would be in position to solve the issue without the need of professional help.
Also Read: How to Solve ERR_CACHE_MISS in Chrome?
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