0x80070013_
Update Failed � Write Protect
If your Windows 10/11 machine is throwing 0x80070013, the system has flagged a fault identified as "Update Failed � Write Protect". Understanding the root cause helps you avoid an unnecessary reinstall.
What Actually Happened
Windows 10/11 tried to install an update and the specific system condition behind it was 'the media is write protected'. Clearing the update cache and retrying resolves the majority of cases.
Symptoms
A Windows Update install fails or rolls back with error 0x80070013, sometimes after a restart loop
Common Causes
- The underlying Win32 condition ERROR_WRITE_PROTECT (the media is write protected) was raised while staging or applying the update
- The Windows Update cache (SoftwareDistribution) holds a stale or corrupted entry
- Insufficient free disk space to stage the update package
- A third-party antivirus or a Group Policy restriction is blocking the installer
How to Fix It
-
01
Run the built-in Windows Update Troubleshooter (Settings > System > Troubleshoot)
-
02
Stop the Windows Update service:
net stop wuauserv && net stop bits -
03
Rename the cache folder:
ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old -
04
Restart services:
net start wuauserv && net start bits -
05
Run system repair:
sfc /scannow && DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
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Root Cause Breakdown
0x80070013 is the HRESULT wrapping of Win32 error 19 (ERROR_WRITE_PROTECT): the media is write protected. The servicing stack (CBS) failed to complete the staging phase.
Should You Worry?
This blocks security patches from installing � address within a week.
Power-User Tip
Before running DISM, renaming C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution to SoftwareDistribution.old clears 80% of 0x80070013 failures instantly.
DIY fix: $0; Paid remote tech support if DISM repair fails: $40�$90