0x80070040_
Update Failed � Netname Deleted
When Windows 10/11 throws 0x80070040, the system diagnostics have flagged a condition known as "Update Failed � Netname Deleted". Most fixes for this error are straightforward and don't require wiping your drive.
What Actually Happened
Windows 10/11 tried to install an update and the specific system condition behind it was 'the specified network name is no longer available'. Clearing the update cache and retrying resolves the majority of cases.
Symptoms
A Windows Update install fails or rolls back with error 0x80070040, sometimes after a restart loop
Common Causes
- The underlying Win32 condition ERROR_NETNAME_DELETED (the specified network name is no longer available) 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
0x80070040 is the HRESULT wrapping of Win32 error 64 (ERROR_NETNAME_DELETED): the specified network name is no longer available. 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 0x80070040 failures instantly.
DIY fix: $0; Paid remote tech support if DISM repair fails: $40�$90