0x80070490 — Element not found – How to Fix

The error code 0x80070490, labeled “Element not found,” generally appears during Windows Updates or when using the Microsoft Store. It points to corruption in the Windows component store or a missing update manifest, which prevents Windows from applying updates or installing features correctly. Though frustrating, the problem is usually repairable with built-in Windows tools and a few targeted fixes.

Have a different error code? Figure out how to fix it with our free Windows error code decoder.

Causes

The 0x80070490 error usually stems from:

• Corrupted Windows component store (WinSxS folder)
• Damaged or missing update manifests that Windows relies on
• Problems with the Windows Update process itself
• Failed previous update or interrupted installation leaving bad data behind
• Less common issues like antivirus conflicts or system file corruption

Fixes

Run DISM to repair the component store

Since the error often signals a broken component store, start with DISM (Deployment Imaging and Servicing Management):

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

This command contacts Windows Update to fetch clean copies of corrupted files.

Run System File Checker (SFC)

Next, check for missing or corrupted system files:

sfc /scannow

SFC scans and repairs core operating system files, which may have been damaged by failed updates or software conflicts.

Reset Windows Update components

If the above scans don’t work, try resetting the update system:

1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
2. Stop services: net stop wuauserv net stop bits
3. Navigate to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution and delete its contents.
4. Restart services: net start wuauserv net start bits

This clears corrupted update data and forces Windows to rebuild its update cache.

Perform an in-place upgrade repair

If corruption runs deeper, performing an in-place upgrade with the latest Windows ISO is the next step:

1. Download the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft.
2. Create installation media or run the setup directly.
3. Choose Upgrade this PC now and keep files and apps.
   This refreshes Windows while preserving your personal data and programs, restoring any missing or broken system components.

Additional steps to consider

• Windows Update troubleshooter: Go to Settings → System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters, then run the Windows Update troubleshooter.
• Check antivirus software: Temporarily disable third-party antivirus to rule out interference.
• Free disk space: Make sure your system drive has enough room for updates to install successfully.

Conclusion

The 0x80070490 — Element not found error indicates that Windows cannot locate or process key update components. In most cases, running DISM and SFC, followed by resetting update components, clears the corruption. If not, an in-place upgrade repair restores the system without affecting your personal files. With these steps, users can almost always resolve the issue without resorting to a full reinstall.

Have a different error code? Figure out how to fix it with our free Windows error code decoder.