Fix Windows Update Error 0x800705b4

Issue type: Windows Update timeout or service response failure | Applies to: Windows 10, Windows 11

Windows update error 0x800705b4 means the update process timed out while waiting for a service, connection, or system response. The practical fix is to restart Windows Update services, remove anything blocking the connection, and reset the network stack if the timeout keeps coming back.

This error is more often caused by a stuck update service, VPN routing, third-party antivirus filtering, proxy settings, or a Windows Update session that never finishes.

Check whether Windows is already waiting for a restart before running commands. A pending restart can keep the update session locked.

What to Do First: Fix Windows Update Error 0x800705b4

1. Restart your PC and check for a pending restart.
2. Open services.msc.
3. Stop Windows Update.
4. Stop Background Intelligent Transfer Service.
5. Start BITS again, then start Windows Update.
6. Return to Windows Update and check again.

Fix 2: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

The troubleshooter can reset common service states automatically. If it finds queued updates, read Windows Update pending install.

Fix 3: Temporarily Disable VPN or Third-Party Antivirus

VPN clients, firewalls, and antivirus tools that inspect HTTPS traffic can delay Microsoft update connections until Windows times out. If updates do not download at all, use Windows Update not downloading.

Fix 4: Reset DNS and the Network Stack

ipconfig /flushdns
netsh winsock reset
netsh int ip reset

Restart after the final command.

Fix 5: Clear the Download Cache

net stop wuauserv
net stop bits
del /f /s /q "%SystemRoot%\SoftwareDistribution\Download\*"
net start bits
net start wuauserv

If the update reaches 100% and then fails, check Windows Update stuck at 100 percent.

Fix 6: Check Proxy and Metered Connection Settings

Open Settings → Network & internet → Proxy and turn off manual proxy settings you do not recognize. Also disable Metered connection temporarily for the active network.

Fix 7: Generate the Windows Update Log

Get-WindowsUpdateLog

Run this in PowerShell as Administrator, then search the generated desktop log for timeout and 0x800705b4 entries.

Common Mistake

The common mistake is treating error 0x800705b4 like component store corruption and immediately running long DISM repairs. This code is a timeout, so start with services, VPN, antivirus, DNS, proxy, and update cache first.

Best Next Step

If the error keeps returning after service restart, antivirus testing, DNS reset, and cache clearing, run Microsoft’s official Windows Update troubleshooter: Windows Update Troubleshooter — Microsoft Support.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Windows Update error 0x800705b4 mean?

It means Windows Update timed out while waiting for a required service, response, or connection.

Is error 0x800705b4 caused by slow internet?

Not usually. It normally appears when the connection is blocked, delayed, or never answered.

Can antivirus cause Windows Update error 0x800705b4?

Yes. Antivirus tools can delay or block Windows Update traffic long enough to trigger a timeout.

Should I run DISM for error 0x800705b4?

Not as the first step. Restart services, check VPN or antivirus, and reset DNS first.

Does error 0x800705b4 affect future updates?

It can if the timeout cause remains active. Once the block is fixed, future updates should install normally.