Applies to Windows 7

Windows Update error 80240016

If you receive Windows Update error 80240016 while trying to install updates, it typically means that another installation is in progress. Wait until the installation is finished, and then try installing updates again. If you're not sure which programs or devices are being installed or updated, check the notification area on your computer for progress information, or check your desktop or taskbar to see if an installation wizard is running. If the problem is still occurring, try using the Windows Update troubleshooter.

To run a Windows Update troubleshooter

  1. Click this button:

    Picture of a Fix it buttonFix this problem

  2. In the File Download dialog box, click Run, and then follow the steps in the wizard.

  3. Open Windows Update, and try to install the update again.

If that didn't work, try the following steps.

To stop and restart a system program

  1. Close any open Windows Update or Microsoft Update windows.

  2. Click the Start button Picture of the Start button, and then type Command Prompt.

  3. In the list of results, right-click Command Prompt, and then click Run as Administrator. Administrator permission required If you're prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.

  4. In the Command prompt window, type the following commands. Press the Enter key after each command:

    net stop wuauserv

    net start wuauserv

  5. To close the Command prompt window, type Exit, and then press Enter.

  6. Run Windows Update again.

If you continue to see this error, see this automatic troubleshooter on the Microsoft Support website, or go to the Microsoft Answers website for more assistance.

Technical information

Error 80240016 indicates that Windows Update cannot access the user token. The user token contains the basic credentials that enable Windows Update to make changes to your computer on your behalf without requiring you to log in every time. This error can occur if you're running your computer for long periods without restarting and the token expires. It might also occur when Automatic Update is running in the background and Windows Update is run in the foreground.

Starting and stopping the Automatic Update service will reset the service and acquire the token again.

Error codes this applies to:

  • WindowsUpdate_80240016

  • 0x80240016