Microsoft Windows HRESULT Error 0x80070642: How to Fix It

Easy 15-30 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
0x80070642
Brand
Microsoft Windows
Product Type
hresult
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Easy
Estimated Fix Time
15-30 minutes
Error 0x80070642 (ERROR_INSTALL_USEREXIT) occurs when a Windows installation or update is cancelled by the user, either intentionally or accidentally. It may also appear due to background processes triggering a cancel command. This guide provides straightforward steps to resolve the error and successfully complete your installation.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 0x80070642

  1. Restart Installation from Scratch

    Back up important data before reinstalling software or updates.

  2. Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

  3. Clean Up Temporary Installation Files

    Do not delete files currently in use; skip them.

  4. Disable Antivirus Temporarily

    Only disable antivirus if you trust the installer; re-enable immediately after.

  5. Perform a Clean Boot Installation

    Clean boot disables non-essential services; re-enable them after fixing.
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When to Call a Professional

If none of these steps work, consider contacting Microsoft Support or a professional technician as there may be deeper system corruption or malware.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes error 0x80070642 in Windows?
The error is triggered when a user cancels an installation or update, either manually or via background processes. It can also occur due to corrupted temporary files or interference from antivirus software.
Can error 0x80070642 be caused by malware?
While less common, malware can simulate user interaction and cancel installations. Run a full antivirus scan if the error persists after standard fixes.
Do I need to reinstall Windows to fix error 0x80070642?
In most cases, no. The steps listed above (clean boot, clearing temp files, running troubleshooter) are usually sufficient. Reinstalling Windows should be a last resort.
How do I prevent error 0x80070642 from happening?
Avoid interrupting installations or updates. Keep your system updated and run periodic disk cleanup to prevent temp file buildup.
Is error 0x80070642 exclusive to Windows Updates?
No, it can occur with any software installer that relies on Windows Installer. However, it's most commonly reported during Windows Update installations.

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