Windows Update Error 0x8024401C — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Windows Update error 0x8024401C means Windows cannot connect to the Microsoft update servers. This is a network-related error — something between your computer and Microsoft's servers is blocking the connection. Common causes include proxy settings, VPN software, DNS issues, or a firewall blocking Windows Update's network traffic.

Affected Models

Windows 10
Windows 11
Windows Server editions

Common Causes

A VPN or proxy is routing Windows Update traffic incorrectly
Your DNS settings are not resolving Microsoft's update server addresses
A firewall (Windows Firewall or third-party) is blocking connections to Windows Update servers
The Windows Update service does not have permission to access the internet on a corporate network
Network adapter settings are incorrect or the adapter needs to be reset

How to Fix It

Disconnect from any VPN and disable any proxy settings: go to Settings > Network & Internet > Proxy and set 'Use a proxy server' to Off.

VPNs and proxies frequently interfere with Windows Update by routing traffic through servers that block Microsoft's update endpoints.
Reset your network settings: open Command Prompt as Administrator and run: netsh winsock reset netsh int ip reset ipconfig /flushdns ipconfig /release ipconfig /renew

Restart the computer after running these commands. This resets the network stack to a clean state.
Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter: Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Windows Update > Run.

The troubleshooter can detect and fix some proxy and connection issues automatically.
Temporarily disable your third-party firewall or antivirus and try Windows Update again.

Some security software incorrectly blocks Windows Update traffic. If updates work with the software disabled, add a Windows Update exception.
Try changing your DNS server: go to Settings > Network & Internet > your connection > Edit DNS. Try using Google DNS (8.8.8.8) or Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1).

A DNS resolution problem can prevent Windows from finding Microsoft's update servers even when internet access otherwise works.

When to Call a Professional

If you are on a company network or domain, your IT department needs to configure Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) or allow Windows Update traffic. Do not change network settings on a work computer without IT approval.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does 0x8024401C happen on work computers?

Yes, frequently. Many businesses manage Windows updates through their own internal servers (WSUS). If the WSUS server address is configured incorrectly in Group Policy, or if WSUS is offline, all Windows Update attempts will fail with network errors. Contact your IT department — they control Windows Update settings on company computers.

Why would Windows Update work fine one day and then fail with 0x8024401C the next?

Your router may have changed your IP address or DNS settings. A VPN or proxy app may have auto-started and changed your network routing. Microsoft's update server could have briefly been unavailable. Try restarting your router and running the network reset commands.

Is it safe to use third-party DNS like Google DNS or Cloudflare DNS?

Yes — for home users, these are reputable, fast, and free DNS services. Using Google DNS (8.8.8.8) or Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1) is a common solution for many internet connectivity problems. On a work computer, check with your IT department before changing DNS settings.