How to fix Windows Update Error Code 0xC1900101 – 0x30018 on Windows 10/11

Windows Update should make your life easier, but sometimes it does the opposite—especially when cryptic errors pop up. One that frustrates many users is error code 0xC1900101 – 0x30018. This error usually appears during a feature update and, once you see it, Windows rolls back the changes. Here’s what it means and, more importantly, how to fix it.

What Does Error 0xC1900101 – 0x30018 Mean?

This error typically points to a driver problem—something in your system isn’t playing nice with the update process. It could be outdated, incompatible, or corrupted drivers. Rarely, it’s caused by low disk space or faulty hardware.

Quick Fixes Before You Start

Before going deeper, try these basics:

• Restart your computer.
• Run Windows Update again.
• Disconnect all unnecessary USB devices (external drives, printers, etc).

If that doesn’t work, let’s get into the real solutions.

1. Free Up Disk Space

Not enough space? Windows Update hates that. Make sure you have at least 20GB free.

• Open Settings > System > Storage.
• Remove unnecessary files.
• Empty the Recycle Bin.

2. Update Your Drivers

This step solves the issue for most people.

• Press Win + X > Device Manager.
• Expand Display adapters, Network adapters, and Storage controllers.
• Right-click each device and choose Update driver > Search automatically for drivers.

For best results, go to your PC manufacturer’s website and download the latest drivers directly.

3. Uninstall Third-Party Antivirus or Security Software

Some third-party security programs interfere with Windows Update. Uninstall them (temporarily) and try updating again. Windows Defender will protect you in the meantime.

4. Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

• Open Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
• Select Windows Update and run the troubleshooter.

Let it detect and fix problems automatically.

5. Check for Corrupted System Files

Corrupt system files can break updates.

• Type cmd in the Start menu, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
• Enter:
  sfc /scannow
• Wait for the scan to finish and follow the prompts.

6. Remove Problematic Devices from Device Manager

Sometimes, unknown or outdated devices (especially old printers or unused hardware) block the update.

• Open Device Manager.
• Look for any devices with a yellow warning icon.
• Right-click and choose Uninstall device.

7. Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot starts Windows with minimal drivers and startup programs.

• Press Win + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
• Go to Services, check Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
• Go to Startup > Open Task Manager > Disable all startup items.
• Restart and try the update again.

8. Use the Media Creation Tool

If nothing works, the Media Creation Tool can upgrade Windows manually.

• Download the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft.
• Choose Upgrade this PC now.
• Follow the on-screen instructions.

Still Stuck?

If you’ve tried everything and the error persists, it might be time to seek help from a professional or reach out to Microsoft Support.

Bottom Line:
The 0xC1900101 – 0x30018 error is usually a driver issue. Update your drivers, clear out unneeded hardware and software, and let Windows fix itself. Most users get past this error with the steps above—without having to reset or reinstall Windows.

Have you fixed this error with a different trick? Let us know in the comments!

Mark Vincent

Tech enthusiast and content creator passionate about making technology simple for everyone. I share practical tips, guides, and reviews on the latest in computers, software, and gadgets. Let’s explore the digital world together!