The Microsoft Media Creation Tool is a handy utility that allows users to install and upgrade their Windows OS, and fix some boot problems. The program helps us with downloading ISO files and creating bootable USB flash drives. Still, as any program, Media Creation Tool gives errors from time to time. One of the most common errors users confront when trying to update their current Windows version to a newer one is the error code 0x80004005-0xa001a, reading: “There was a problem running this tool. We’re not sure what happened, but we’re unable to run this tool on your PC. If you continue experiencing problems, reference the error code when contacting customer support. Error code: 0x80004005 – 0xa001a.”
If you happened to get such a message, don’t get frustrated. There are some practical solutions to this common problem that, we hope, will come in handy.
Fix #1
If you’re experiencing the error in question, head to the C:\\$Windows.~BT\\Sources directory. Though the location may differ in significantly, note that it should start exactly with “$Windows.”
Once there, find the Setupprep.exe file and double-click on it.
The fix may be effective, provided that the update files you’ve downloaded are undamaged.
Try to run Media Creation Tool to see whether you managed to solve the problem.
If the problem persists, consider trying another method.
Fix #2
We suggest that you try to remove the content of the entire directory to restore normal operation of Media Creation Tool.
Head to your C:\\Windows\\SoftwareDistribution\\Download folder. Then, clear your Downloads folder and restart the PC.
After that, you’ll need to get a fresh copy of the Microsoft Creation Tool. Depending on your Windows version, choose either 32- or 64-bit version for download and follow the on-screen instructions to the point to install the program. Create an installation media for another computer and save it to your USB drive. Start your PC from it.
Fix #3
Another method worth trying is formatting your USB drive to FAT32. To do it, right-click on Windows key and select Command prompt. Type “format /FS:FAT32 H:” (without quotation marks) into the Command prompt window. “H” stands for an external hard drive, so, if you’re using any other disc, change the letter.
Hit the “Enter” button to proceed to formatting your USB drive.
Fix #4
There is another fix, which lies in changing startup type of update services.
Press the combination of the “Win” key and “R”. Then, type in the following command: services.msc and press Enter.
After that, check out through the following services and make sure all of them are enabled:
Windows Update
TCP/IP NetBIOS Helper Background Intelligent Transfer Service
IKE and AuthIP IPsec Keying Modules Server
Workstation
Make sure to activate the disabled services by clicking on them and pressing “Start.”
After that, change the “Startup Type” to “Automatic” and exit your Services.
Fix #5
Finally you may try disabling “USB Selective Suspend” from “Power Options.” Still, if the fix doesn’t help, make sure to revert the changes made.
Hope that one of the five fixes helped you fix the error code 0x80004005-0xa001a.
Sonia Theo has a long experience in writing, and now she is our associate journalist covering tech, gaming and mobile news. She has a BA in English and German and a BA in Arts and Design. Sonia likes writing about the latest updates in current and future games, guides and reviews. Her favorite past times is gaming, crafting and cooking. Sonia is always ready to help players with tips when they’re in a tough boss fight.
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