If you’re trying to run a tool on your PC and you see the error message “We’re not sure what happened, but we’re unable to run this tool on your PC: 0x80072F8F 0x20000,” there’s no need to panic. This is a relatively common error, and there are a few things you can do to fix it.
What does the error mean?
The error code 0x80072F8F 0x20000 can occur for a number of reasons, but the most common cause is a problem with the Windows Update service. Other possible causes include:
- A corrupted system file
- A missing or outdated driver
- A conflict with another program
- A virus or malware infection
How to fix the error
There are a few different ways to fix the error code 0x80072F8F 0x20000. Here are a few things you can try:
- Restart your computer. This may seem like a simple solution, but it can often fix minor problems with the Windows Update service.
- Run the Windows Update troubleshooter. This built-in tool can help you identify and fix problems with the Windows Update service.
- Manually reset the Windows Update service. This can be done by following these steps:
- Open a command prompt window with elevated privileges.
- Type the following command and press Enter:
net stop wuauserv
- Type the following command and press Enter:
ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
- Type the following command and press Enter:
net start wuauserv
- Update your drivers. Make sure that all of your drivers, including your graphics card driver, are up to date.
- Disable antivirus and firewall protection temporarily. Sometimes, antivirus and firewall software can interfere with the Windows Update service. Try disabling these programs temporarily and see if that fixes the error.
- Scan your computer for viruses and malware. A virus or malware infection can also cause the error code 0x80072F8F 0x20000. Use your antivirus software to scan your computer for viruses and malware.
Conclusion
If you’re still having trouble fixing the error code 0x80072F8F 0x20000 after trying all of the above steps, you can contact Microsoft support for assistance.
FAQ
Q: What is the error code 0x80072F8F 0x20000?
A: The error code 0x80072F8F 0x20000 is a general error that can occur when a program tries to access the Windows Update service but is unable to do so.
Q: What are the causes of the error code 0x80072F8F 0x20000?
A: The error code 0x80072F8F 0x20000 can occur for a number of reasons, including:
- A problem with the Windows Update service
- A corrupted system file
- A missing or outdated driver
- A conflict with another program
- A virus or malware infection
Q: How can I fix the error code 0x80072F8F 0x20000?
A: There are a few different ways to fix the error code 0x80072F8F 0x20000, including:
- Restarting your computer
- Running the Windows Update troubleshooter
- Manually resetting the Windows Update service
- Updating your drivers
- Disabling antivirus and firewall protection temporarily
- Scanning your computer for viruses and malware
Q: What should I do if I’m still having trouble fixing the error code 0x80072F8F 0x20000?
A: If you’re still having trouble fixing the error code 0x80072F8F 0x20000 after trying all of the above steps, you can contact Microsoft support for assistance.

Hi! I’m Eric and I work on the knowledge base at GadgetMates.com. You can see some of my writings about technology, cellphone repair, and computer repair here.
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