RepairWindows

How To Fix Windows Defender Error Code 0x80004004

Jack

By Jack Lin

Update on

0x80004004

Windows Defender Error Code 0x80004004 is a relatively typical error that many people face.

When the error code 0x80004004 appears on your system, it indicates that there is an issue with the Windows Defender application.

The majority of the time, this issue arises when you try to upgrade the default security software.

When this issue arises, you may see the following message: ‘Virus and spyware definitions could not be updated.’

This article will provide you with all pertinent information regarding the issue and will assist you in resolving it.

Major Signs of the 0x80004004 Error

When Windows Defender Error Code 0x80004004 shows up on the screen, you might notice the following signs:

  • After a given amount of time, the running software becomes unresponsive, and the installation process becomes halted.
  • The system begins to freeze on a regular basis, crashing any background programs that are active.
  • Web pages start crashing, and the hardware stops responding in real-time.

Major Causes of the0x80004004 Error

Fortunately, despite the difficulty of decoding the error codes, resolving the problem is not impossible. Hence, in this article, we are both addressing the problem, as well as the possible causes and solutions.

However, before jumping to the answer, it’s a good idea to understand the situation you’re working with, as a thorough knowledge would undoubtedly assist you in properly analyzing the situation.

Examine the factors given below to see if you can identify the likely causes for the problem at hand.

  • Corruption in registry files
  • Faulty or outdated drivers
  • Unstable Internet Connection
  • Virus or Malware presence in the system
  • Pending un-installed updates

Besides, if you are experiencing the issues like Windows Update error 0x80080008 or error code 0x8007042B, here are the top solutions for you.


Solutions to Solve the Error Code 0x80004004

This section of the article will guide you through the process of fixing and solving this issue.

Solution 1: Check Internet Connection

Check Network to Fix Windows Defender Error Code 0x80004004

Installing and upgrading errors are sometimes caused by a sluggish internet connection. Furthermore, slow internet connections make it impossible to create a secure connection.

As a result, the following approach is the first step toward avoiding this vexing problem.

  • Ensure that the Ethernet cable and backbone are in good working order. If any wires or cables are attached to it and are found to be faulty, replace those right away.
  • If any Ethernet ports are broken, fix them as quickly as possible to avoid additional problems.
  • Examine the Wifi signal strength if you are using a wireless connection. If the signal is weak or the connection is unstable on a regular basis, you need to change the Network Settings.

Solution 2: Run Windows Update Troubleshooter To Fix Error Code 0x80004004

If you encounter an issue when updating your operating system, the Windows Defender error code 0x80004004 may appear as a result. Hence, running the Windows Update Troubleshooter is the best way to fix this update issue.

To do so, simply follow the instructions below.

1: To access the Start menu, first press the ‘Windows Logo‘ on the taskbar.

2: After that, select the ‘Gear‘ symbol right above the ‘Power‘ icon. This will open the ‘Windows Settings‘ window.

3: Find and select the ‘Update & Security‘ category at the bottom of this window.

4: Go to the left pane of this page and pick the option ‘Troubleshoot.’

5: Next, scroll down to the bottom of the screen and select the option ‘Windows Update‘ under the subheading ‘Get up and running.’

6: Then, select the ‘Run the Troubleshooter‘ button in the lower right corner.

Run Troubleshooter

7: A new window appears, and the system begins to check for any issues that may have arisen during the update operation.

8: If any queued updates need to be installed, you’ll be given two options: ‘Apply this fix‘ or ‘Skip this fix.’ To download more updates and install those that are currently waiting, select the first option; otherwise, select the second option.

Apply this fix

9: If you click the ‘Skip this fix‘ button, the troubleshooter will scan the updates for any issues. If there is any corruption, it will be presented on the next page of this window.

10: After that, restart your computer to see whether the Windows Defender Error Code 0x80004004 still occurs.

Solution 3: Remove Unnecessary Files from the Computer

You may encounter the error code 0x80004004 if the system’s trash or unneeded files become corrupted or if the storage capacity has been depleted completely. Run the ‘Disk Cleanup’ utility to remove all of the unwanted files from your computer.

To do so, follow the instructions.

1: To open the menu, press the Windows and X keys at the same time.

2: Select “Command Prompt (Admin).”

Run Command Prompt

3: Select “Yes” and start the command prompt as an administrator.

4: Type “cleanmgr” into the command prompt and press Enter.

Run Cleanmgr

5: The utility begins immediately and calculates the overall amount of space consumed on the hard disc. You may also check all the dialogue boxes, including the temporary file box that is occupied by unneeded files.

Fix Windows Defender Error Code 0x80004004 with Disk Cleanup

6: Allow the program to delete all trash files by clicking the “OK” button. Return to your previous task to see if the problem has been fixed.

PS: Here are the top solutions for you if you are experiencing the error code 0x80070570.

Solution 4: Update for Computer Drivers to Fix Error Code 0x80004004

Another possible solution for Error Code 0x80004004 is to upgrade your computer’s essential drivers. They are in charge of ensuring that the system and any installed programs or apps communicate effectively.

As a result, they must be kept up to date for computer processes to run well. This error code might be caused by any faulty or obsolete drivers.

1: To begin, press the Windows Start button.

2: Search and select Device Manager.

3: You will be presented with a list of hardware devices that you have previously installed on your computer.

4: Now, right-click the same device and select the “Update driver” option from the drop-down menu.

Update Drivers to Fix Windows Defender Error Code 0x80004004

5: The process of upgrading will be done in no time. Finally, the system must be restarted.

Verify whether the issue has been resolved. If not, let’s move on to the next potential solution.

Solution 5: Enable the Windows Defender Service

When the Windows Defender security program is set to manual, you may encounter this issue if the software’s service is unable to start. The only way to resolve this issue is to automate the service.

Follow the instructions below to do so.

1: Right-click on Cortana to open it. Launch it with the Run as Administrator option.

2: When the login box appears on the screen, click the Services tab and enter a passcode.

3: To complete the procedure, click Continue.

4: From the resulting service window, choose the Windows Defender Service.

5: Open the Service’s Settings page by double-tapping it.

6: Change the format of the Settings to Automatic from Disabled.

7: To save the changed modifications, click the Apply and OK tabs, respectively.

Enable Windows Defender Service to Fix Windows Defender Error Code 0x80004004

After that, restart the computer to see if the error code 0x80004004 displays on the screen.

Solution 6: Execute SFC Tool to Fix Error Code 0x80004004

When a system file becomes corrupted or missing as a result of an internal problem, the error 0x80004004 appears. The ‘System File Checker,’ or ‘SFC,’ is a built-in utility that may be used to resolve this issue. This is a program that analyses the system for damaged or missing system files and fixes the ones that are causing the problem.

All you have to do to use this utility is follow the instructions below.

1: Open the Start menu by pressing the Start button.

2: To open the Command Prompt, type “cmd” in the search box and click Enter.

3: To execute it, type “sfc /scannow” into the resulting window and click Enter.

Run SFC

4: It will operate on its own and detect any faulty file sectors. It will only take a few moments to finish the procedure.

After that, just restart the computer to fix the troublesome Windows Defender problem.

Solution 7: Run Disk Check Utility to Fix Error Code 0x80004004

You may experience the Windows Defender issue if your hard drive malfunctions. The utility ‘Check Disk‘ can be used to fix this problem. This program is integrated into Windows and analyses the hard drive for any damage to the sectors before attempting to repair them.

Follow the instructions below to launch and utilize this program.

1: In Admin mode, launch the Command Prompt.

2: Now, type “chkdsk” and the drive name (C: or D:) into the command prompt. Then write “/f/r/x” and press Enter to start it. The drive will be checked for any unforeseen difficulties, and, if required, they will be removed.

Run Disk Check Utility

3: It will take 5-6 minutes to complete the procedure, after which it will display a successful message.

4: Next, properly restart the System and launch any application software to see if the same issue arises again.

Solution 8: Run System Restore to Fix Error Code 0x80004004

If none of the suggestions in this section are successful in resolving the error 0x80004004, the only option is to restore the system. The steps for doing a system restore are outlined below.

1: To begin, hit the Windows and Q keys at the same time.

2: Now, choose the Settings option from the application’s menu.

3: Select the Recovery icon.

4: Now that the resulting window appears, select the System Restore option from it.

5: A new dialogue box will open, asking for the date and time when the system first began acting oddly. The preceding date must be mentioned.

6: After then, the utility will start up and normally run until the system is turned down and restarted.


FAQs About Windows Defender Error Code 0x80004004

FAQ 1: What does Windows Defender Error Code 0x80004004 mean?

Windows Defender Error Code 0x80004004 indicates an issue with Windows Defender’s functionality. It can occur due to various reasons, such as outdated operating systems, conflicts with third-party antivirus software, or connectivity issues.

FAQ 2: How can I fix Windows Defender Error Code 0x80004004?

To fix Windows Defender Error Code 0x80004004, you can try the following steps:

  • Restart your computer.
  • Update Windows to the latest version.
  • Check your internet connection.
  • Disable third-party antivirus software temporarily.
  • Run a Windows Defender Offline Scan.

FAQ 3: Why is Windows Defender showing Error Code 0x80004004 when scanning?

When Windows Defender encounters Error Code 0x80004004 during a scan, it typically indicates a problem with the antivirus software’s functionality. This error can occur due to outdated operating systems, conflicts with other antivirus software, or connectivity issues.

FAQ 4: Can I use Windows Defender without uninstalling other antivirus software?

Yes, Windows Defender can work alongside other antivirus software. However, if you are experiencing Error Code 0x80004004, it is recommended to temporarily disable other antivirus software to check if it is causing the issue. Once the issue is resolved, you can enable the other antivirus software again.

FAQ 5: What should I do if the Windows Defender Error Code 0x80004004 persists?

If the Windows Defender Error Code 0x80004004 persists after trying the troubleshooting steps mentioned above, you may need to seek advanced assistance. Contact Microsoft support or consult a professional technician who can provide specialized help in resolving this error.

FAQ 6: How can I prevent Windows Defender Error Code 0x80004004 in the future?

To prevent Windows Defender Error Code 0x80004004, follow these preventive measures:

  • Keep your Windows operating system up to date.
  • Ensure a stable and reliable internet connection.
  • Use only one antivirus software at a time to avoid conflicts.
  • Regularly scan your computer for malware and viruses.
  • Be cautious while downloading and installing software from untrusted sources.

Ending Remarks

If the Window Error code 08004004 appears, use the techniques listed above in the article to fix it. The article has not only listed the top solutions for fixing the error but has mentioned the probable causes behind it so that you analyze the problem better.

We hope that this article will be helpful to all Windows users, especially non-techies, in resolving the installation problem.

Jack
Jack

10 years of experience in information and computer technology. Passionate about electronic devices, smartphones, computers, and modern technology.

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