Table of Contents
Problem Description
After installing recent Windows 10 updates—specifically KB5057589, KB5055674, KB5056474, KB5055769, KB5055768, and KB5055770—many users encounter the error code 0x80070643 – ERROR_INSTALL_FAILURE during the update process. This error most commonly appears with the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) update (KB5057589) for Windows 10 versions 21H2 and 22H2, released on April 8, 2025.
Here is a typical error message you might see:
2025-04 Cumulative Update for Windows 10 Version 22H2 for x64-based Systems (KB5057589) – Error 0x80070643
Key Symptoms
- Windows Update displays the error 0x80070643 and reports that the update failed.
- The error is seen specifically after attempting to install the KB5057589 WinRE update.
- The update may appear as “failed” in Windows Update history, causing concern about system stability and update compliance.
Explanation and Resolution
Why Does This Error Occur?
- The error occurs when the WinRE update is installed while another update is pending a reboot. Windows Update then incorrectly reports the WinRE update as failed, even though it is typically applied successfully after the device restarts.
- The error message is not accurate and does not impact the update or device functionality. The update itself is usually applied correctly, and the error is cosmetic.
What Should You Do?
No action is required from your side. Microsoft has officially confirmed that users should simply ignore this error. The error notification will disappear automatically after the next daily update scan or after a system restart.
Step-by-Step Guidance
- Do not attempt manual fixes or registry edits.
- Restart your computer if you have not already done so after the update.
- Wait for the next daily Windows Update scan. The error message will be cleared, and the update will no longer be offered.
- Do not reinstall or uninstall the update—it is already applied successfully in most cases.
- If you want to verify WinRE status, open an elevated Command Prompt and run: reagentc /info
This will show if WinRE is enabled and its current status.
Important Notes
- The update will not be offered if your WinRE partition lacks sufficient free space (minimum 250 MB required).
- This error does not affect your device’s ability to recover or boot.
- Microsoft is working on a permanent fix to prevent this error from showing up in the future.
Official Microsoft Statement
“After installing the April 2025 Windows Recovery Environment update [KB5057589], you might see the following error message in the Windows Update settings page: 0x80070643 – ERROR_INSTALL_FAILURE. This error message is not accurate and does not impact the update or device functionality. The WinRE update is typically applied successfully after the device restarts. Windows Update might continue to display the update as failed until the next daily scan, at which point the update is no longer offered and the failure message is cleared automatically.”
— Microsoft Support
While the 0x80070643 error is frustrating, it is ultimately harmless and does not affect your system’s recovery capabilities or stability. Simply restart your computer and let Windows Update clear the message automatically. Avoid unnecessary troubleshooting—Microsoft is addressing the issue in future updates.