[SOLVED] Windows 11 21H2: Error 0x800700c1 in Windows Update, SFC could not start the repair service, DISM error 193 %1 is not a valid Win32 application

[mmillennial]

Hello,

I've seen this exact issue elsewhere on this forum, so I'm hopeful we can reach a resolution for me as well! Windows updates have been failing for a long while on my Windows 11 Pro 21H2 PC, so I started to investigate the cause and I'm running into what appears to be a common series of errors (see the title). I'm also unable to install an in-place upgrade to 22H2 or 23H2 using either an unmodified ISO or a Rufus boot USB with the compatibility checks disabled.

I've attached my ComponentsScanner.txt and CBS.zip files as requested.

 

[Maxstar]

Hi and welcome to Sysnative,

Step 1. Download

SFCFix and save it to your desktop.

Warning: This fix was written specifically for this system. Do not run this fix on another system.

• Save any work you have open, and close all programs.
• Download the attachment SFCFix.zip and save it to your desktop.
• Drag the SFCFix.zip file over the SFCFix.exe executable and release it.

• SFCFix will launch, let it complete.
• Once done, a file will appear on your desktop, called SFCFix.txt.
• Post the logfile (SFCFix.txt) as attachment in your next reply.

Step 2. Run the following DISM command and post the result. If it fails attach a new copy of the CBS log.

DISM /online /cleanup-image /RestoreHealth

 

[mmillennial]

That did it! Thank you! I ran a SFC /scannow afterward and it found several corrupted files, related to Bluetooth and HID-class devices.

You just saved me a huge headache... my next step was a clean install, with over 1000 applications to reinstall... whew! Now I just need to figure out how to get it to show me the 23H2 upgrade...

 

[Maxstar]

You're welcome. To upgrade to Windows 11 23H2 I would suggest to use the following tool if you don't bypass any hardware requirements.

Download the

Windows 11 Installation Assistant to your desktop.

• Right-click on Windows11InstallationAssistant.exe and select the option: Run as administrator.
• Press the Update now button, click after the compatibility check on Next.
• The Update Assistant will now download the latest Feature Update.
• After verifying the download, the Feature Update will be installed.
• When this process is ready, click on the Restart now button to complete the installation.

 

[mmillennial]

I did have some bypasses going on, but I was able to upgrade by setting up a USB stick in Rufus with the Win11_23H2_English_x64v2 ISO. Thanks again for all your help!

 

[Maxstar]

Okay, but bear in mind that running Windows 11 on unsupported hardware may cause problems with new updates and/or feature updates.

I will mark this thread as solved...