5 Ways to Fix Windows Defender Error with Code 0x80240029
Successfully Troubleshoot and Fix Windows Defender Error 0x80240029
Windows Defender has several possible errors users may experience, such as error code 0x80240029. It is crucial to take measures to try and fix it, as Microsoft Windows Defender is a powerful antivirus program designed to protect computers from malware and viruses.
This article will provide five proven ways to resolve the Windows Defender error with code 0x80240029. Following these steps should help you fix the issue and ensure your Windows Defender program runs correctly again.
What is the Windows Defender error with code 0x80240029?
The error code 0x80240029 indicates that Windows Defender has encountered an issue while trying to download the latest update. The causes of this error may include any of the following:
- Incorrect Date and Time Settings: Incorrect date and time settings in the system can cause the error. This issue happens when there is a mismatch between the system’s date and time settings and those saved in the Windows Defender database.
- Corrupted Windows Defender Files: A corrupt Windows Defender file can also cause the Windows Defender error with code 0x80240029.
- Corrupted Windows Registry: A corrupted or damaged Windows Registry can also cause the error with the code 0x80240029.
- Outdated Drivers: If your system drivers are out-of-date, it can conflict with Windows Defender and lead to the error.
- Virus or Malware Attack: A virus or malware attack on the system can also corrupt files of Windows Defender and trigger the Windows Defender error.
- Network Issues: Network problems such as a loss of connection, an unstable connection, or improper network configuration can also be responsible for the Windows Defender error.
- Corrupt Windows Update Components: Corrupt Windows Update components, such as Windows Update Agent, can cause the Windows Defender error.
How do I fix the Windows Defender error with code 0x80240029?
As you move to attempt the provided solutions, try out these prefixes first:
- Restart your PC: Restarting your PC can help to reset some software and drivers that may be causing the error.
- Temporarily deactivating antivirus: Disabling temporarily your antivirus software can also help because antivirus programs can sometimes clash with Windows system files, preventing critical processes from running. Ensure you re-enable the software after fixing the error.
- Check your internet: Checking your internet can help to identify and isolate any underlying network issues that may be causing the problem.
- Install Update manually: Manually installing updates can help your computer run with the latest software and patches.
1. Set the Date, Time and Time zone
- Press the Windows + I keys together to open Settings.
- When the Settings window opens, click on Time & language.
- Then, click Date & time on the right pane.
- After that, toggle the Set time automatically switch on to allow the computer set time and date automatically according to your location.
- Also, toggle the Set time zone automatically switch on to allow the computer to set time zone automatically according to your location.
2. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter
- Firstly, open the computer’s Settings by pressing the Windows key + I together.
- Then, click on System on the left pane.
- After that, click on Troubleshoot and select Other troubleshooters.
- When you see the list, select Windows Update from the available options and click the Run button.
- Finally, allow Windows Update troubleshooter to run for a while to scan and detect the issues in your computer.
- Finally, select the appropriate response when prompted.
3. End msmpeng.exe process
- Press the ctrl + shift + esc keys together to launch the Task Manager.
- Then click on the Antimalware Service Executable or msmpeng.exe process and click the End Task button to terminate the process.
- Finally, run the Windows Update again and see if it is functional.
4. Reset Update component
- Press the Windows and S keys simultaneously and enter Command Prompt in the text field.
- Then, select Run as administrator on the right side to open Command Prompt as an admin.
- When prompted, Click on Yes on the User Account Control prompt.
- When the Command Prompt opens, enter the following commands and hit Enter after each key to disable some update services:
net stop cryptsvc
net stop appidsvc
net stop bits
net stop wuauserv
- After that, enter this rename command for the SoftwareDistribution folder and press Enter:
Ren %systemroot%\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
- Then, modify the catroot2 folder using the command below and hit Enter:
Ren %systemroot%\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old - Then, enter these command codes for restarting services and hit Enter after each:
net start cryptsvc
net start bits
net start wuauserv
net start appidsvc - Finally, restart your computer.
5. Run an SFC scan
- Press the Windows and S keys simultaneously and enter Command Prompt in the text field.
- Then, select Run as administrator on the right side to open Command prompt as an admin.
- When prompted, Click on Yes on the User Account Control prompt.
- When the Command Prompt opens, enter the following command and hit the Enter key to start an SFC scan:
sfc /scannow - Afterward, enter the command below and press the Enter key to execute the command:
DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth - Finally, it would be best to restart your computer to implement repairs.
In conclusion, following the methods above, you can successfully fix any Windows Defender error with code 0x80240029. Regularly scanning your laptop for security vulnerabilities and keeping your Windows updated with the latest updates are key steps for maintaining your computer’s security and stability.
When faced with Windows Defender error code 0x80240029, users should be sure first to troubleshoot the issue manually before they contact Microsoft or another professional for assistance. Contact Microsoft Support for further assistance.
