Windows 10 Update Error 0x800705b4: Clearing a Timeout That Stops Updates
You check for updates, wait, and Windows eventually gives up with a message that it ran into problems, followed by 0x800705b4. The Windows 10 update error 0x800705b4 can also appear when Windows Defender YYPAUS tries to update itself.
The code means an operation timed out. Windows Update asked for something, waited for an answer, and the answer did not arrive in time.
Timeouts are usually caused by stalled services, conflicting security software, or a slow, unreliable connection, rather than by damaged hardware.
Why This Happens
The update process times out for these reasons:
- The Windows Update or Background Intelligent Transfer Service has stalled.
- A third-party antivirus is interfering with Defender or with the update process.
- The internet connection is unstable or very slow.
- The update cache contains damaged files that slow everything down.
On PCs that also run another antivirus, the error often names Defender updates specifically.
Start With These Basic Checks
These quick checks clear many timeouts.
- Restart the PC and the router, then check for updates again.
- Try a wired connection, or move closer to the Wi-Fi router.
- Run the Windows Update troubleshooter under Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
- Temporarily disable third-party antivirus software and try again.
- Make sure the date and time are set automatically.
If the error disappears with the antivirus disabled, update or replace that program before turning protection back on.
Going a Step Further
Reset the services and cache involved.
- Open Command Prompt as administrator.
- Run net stop wuauserv, net stop bits, and net stop cryptsvc.
- Rename the cache with ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old.
- Run net start wuauserv, net start bits, and net start cryptsvc.
- Restart the PC and check for updates.
If Defender updates are the ones failing, open Windows Security and select Check for updates under Virus & threat protection, which uses a separate path. Running sfc /scannow afterwards helps if the timeouts keep coming back.
A Word of Caution
Keep any antivirus disabled for as short a time as possible, and avoid browsing while it is off. Type the commands carefully, especially folder names. A backup of personal files is sensible before any system repair, even a routine one.
Final Thoughts
Error 0x800705b4 is a timeout, so the aim is to remove whatever is slowing the process down. Restart the network, remove antivirus conflicts, and reset the update services. Once the cache is fresh, updates usually complete normally on the next attempt.
If the same timeout appears on every network you try, the fault is almost certainly inside Windows rather than with your provider, and the cache reset and system file check are the steps most likely to help.