Understanding Error Code 0xd80774ec

Error code 0xd80774ec is a frustrating issue that can pop up while trying to install or update Windows. Users typically encounter an error message stating "Installation failed in the FIRST_BOOT phase with an error during APPLY_IMAGE operation". This means something went wrong during the initial setup process of your Windows installation.

What Causes Error Code 0xd80774ec?

There are several potential culprits behind this error code, including:

  • Corrupted system files: Damaged or missing system files can interfere with the installation process.

  • Insufficient disk space: Ensure you have enough free space on your hard drive for the Windows installation or update.

  • Hardware incompatibility: Older hardware components may not be compatible with the latest Windows version.

  • Antivirus software interference: Some antivirus programs can mistakenly flag installation files as threats, preventing successful installation.

Affected Operating Systems

Error code 0xd80774ec typically affects Windows operating systems, including Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Programs Often Affected

While this error primarily affects the Windows operating system itself during installation or updates, it can sometimes manifest when installing other software packages that rely on specific Windows components.

How to Solve Errors

There are several troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve error code 0xd80774ec:

Run the System File Checker

Open Command Prompt as an administrator and run the following command:

sfc /scannow

Check Disk Space

Make sure you have enough free space on your hard drive. You'll generally need at least 20GB of free space for a Windows installation.

Disable Antivirus Temporarily

Temporarily disable your antivirus software to see if it's interfering with the installation process. Remember to re-enable it after the installation is complete.

Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs, which can help isolate potential conflicts. To perform a clean boot.

  1. Press Windows key + R and type "msconfig".
  2. Go to the "Services" tab and check the box that says "Hide all Microsoft services".

  3. Click "Disable all".

  4. Go to the "Startup" tab and click "Open Task Manager".

  5. Disable all startup items in the Task Manager.
  6. Restart your computer and attempt the installation again.

Update Drivers

Ensure all your hardware drivers are up-to-date. You can use Device Manager or download the latest drivers from your computer manufacturer's website.

Reset Windows Update Components

Run the following commands in Command Prompt as administrator:

  1. net stop wuauserv
  2. net stop cryptSvc
  3. net stop bits
  4. net stop msiserver
  5. Delete the contents of the following folders:
    • C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download

  6. C:\Windows\System32\catroot2

  7. Run the following commands again to restart the services:

    • net start wuauserv
  8. net start cryptSvc
  9. net start bits
  10. net start msiserver

Perform a System Restore

If you recently made changes to your system, try performing a system restore to revert to a previous working state. You can access System Restore through the Control Panel.

Reinstall Windows

As a last resort, you may need to reinstall Windows from scratch. This will erase all data on your hard drive, so make sure to back up any important files before proceeding. You can download the Windows installation media from the Microsoft website: download Windows 10

Remember to consult with a qualified technician if you are unable to resolve the error code on your own.

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