Understanding [The Software Change Returned Error Code 0x800705b4(-2147023436)]

If you’ve encountered the message “the software change returned error code 0x800705b4(-2147023436),” you’re not alone. This issue commonly occurs in systems running Windows and is linked to updates or software changes within the operating system. It’s particularly frustrating because it tends to disrupt essential updates, leaving your computer vulnerable to security risks or performance issues.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into what causes this error, how it manifests for users, and offer step-by-step troubleshooting methods to resolve it. We’ll also provide some preventative tips to help you avoid encountering this issue in the future.

What Causes the Error?

The error code 0x800705b4(-2147023436) typically occurs when there’s a failure related to Windows Update or a change in system software. Several possible reasons may lead to this issue:

1. Corrupted Update Files: Sometimes, the files related to a Windows Update or software installation become corrupted. This may result from an incomplete download or a problem during the installation process.
2. Network Problems: Issues with your internet connection can interrupt updates, causing the error to appear.
3. System Conflicts: Background software, such as antivirus programs or firewalls, might interfere with the update process.
4. Outdated Drivers or System Files: If your system has outdated or incompatible drivers, the update may fail, triggering the error code.
5. Registry Problems: Corruption in the Windows Registry is another potential source of the issue, leading to conflicts with software updates or installations.

How Does It Manifest?

The error “the software change returned error code 0x800705b4(-2147023436)” usually pops up during or after attempting a Windows Update or while installing new software. Users often report the following symptoms:

• Update Failures: Windows Update attempts to install new patches but fails, prompting the error message.
• Slow Performance: The system may become sluggish, particularly if it’s trying to process multiple updates at once.
• Frequent Restart Prompts: The computer may continually ask to restart after a failed update, without resolving the issue.
• Security Warnings: Because updates are not installed correctly, your system may prompt warnings about outdated security patches.

Let’s explore some real-world feedback to understand how this error affects users.

Real-World Examples from Forums

Several users on Windows forums have shared their experiences with the error code 0x800705b4(-2147023436). One user reported that they were unable to install a critical security update after multiple attempts. Each time, the update would download and start the installation process but then fail with the error message. After checking their internet connection and system settings, they discovered that their antivirus software was blocking the update.

Another user shared that the error popped up while trying to install a new version of Microsoft Office. Their system was configured to automatically download and install updates, but a network interruption caused the files to become corrupted, leading to the error.

In both of these cases, users were able to resolve the issue by following certain troubleshooting steps. Let’s explore those solutions below.

How to Resolve the Error Code 0x800705b4(-2147023436)

1. Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, the simplest solution is the best one. Restarting your computer can clear out temporary files and refresh the system, which may fix the problem. After restarting, try to run the update or software installation again to see if the error persists.

2. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Windows has a built-in troubleshooter specifically designed to diagnose and resolve update issues. Here’s how to use it:

1. Open the Settings menu.
2. Navigate to Update & Security.
3. Click on Troubleshoot in the left panel.
4. Select Windows Update and click Run the troubleshooter.

The troubleshooter will scan your system for any issues and provide solutions to resolve them. Once completed, try updating or installing the software again.

3. Disable Antivirus and Firewall Temporarily

As mentioned earlier, antivirus software or a firewall might block certain updates or software changes. Temporarily disabling these can help resolve the problem.

1. Open your antivirus program.
2. Disable real-time protection or the firewall feature.
3. Try to run the update or software installation again.

Remember to enable your antivirus and firewall after the installation to maintain your system’s security.

4. Reset Windows Update Components

If none of the above steps work, resetting the Windows Update components may fix the issue. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Type the following commands, pressing Enter after each one:
   • net stop wuauserv
   • net stop cryptSvc
   • net stop bits
   • net stop msiserver
3. Rename the SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 folders by typing the following commands:
   • ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
   • ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 Catroot2.old
4. Restart the services you stopped earlier:
   • net start wuauserv
   • net start cryptSvc
   • net start bits
   • net start msiserver
5. Close the Command Prompt and restart your computer.

After rebooting, attempt the update or software installation again.

5. Check for Corrupted System Files

Corrupted system files may also cause the error. Running the System File Checker (SFC) can repair them:

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
3. Wait for the process to complete. If any corrupted files are found, they will be repaired automatically.

Once the scan finishes, restart your computer and see if the issue is resolved.

6. Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot helps eliminate software conflicts by starting Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs. To perform a clean boot:

1. Press Windows + R and type msconfig, then hit Enter.
2. In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
3. Check the box that says Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
4. Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
5. Disable all startup items.
6. Close Task Manager and click OK in the System Configuration window.
7. Restart your computer and attempt the update again.

Preventing Future Issues

To prevent issues like “the software change returned error code 0x800705b4(-2147023436)” from recurring, follow these tips:

1. Keep Your System Updated: Regularly check for Windows Updates and make sure they are installed promptly.
2. Maintain a Stable Internet Connection: Ensure that you have a stable and strong internet connection, especially when downloading updates or software.
3. Check Antivirus Settings: Ensure your antivirus is compatible with Windows Updates and not overly restrictive.
4. Perform Regular System Maintenance: Clean out temporary files, update drivers, and run system checks like SFC regularly.