Resolving Error 0x800705B4: Troubleshooting Windows Update in Vista

To address the error code 0x800705B4 in Windows Vista, follow these structured steps:

1. Reboot your system: A simple restart can often resolve this problem.
2. Verify your internet connectivity: Ensure that your connection is stable. For Wi-Fi issues, consider using a direct Ethernet connection to your router.
3. Temporarily disable antivirus software: Sometimes, antivirus programs interfere with Windows Update. Disable yours briefly to see if it resolves the error.
4. Utilise the Windows Update troubleshooter: Navigate to Control Panel > System and Security > Troubleshoot common computer problems > Fix problems with Windows Update to launch the troubleshooter.
5. Reset Windows Update components: If issues persist, reset the update components. Open Command Prompt as an administrator and execute these commands:

    net stop wuauserv
    net stop cryptSvc
    net stop bits
    net stop msiserver
    ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
    ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old
    net start wuauserv
    net start cryptSvc
    net start bits
    net start msiserver

6. Consider a system restore: If the problem continues, a system restore to a point before the error appeared may be necessary.