Alex Ruben
How to Resolve the 0x80070490 Element Not Found Error in Windows 11
The 0x80070490 Element Not Found error in Windows 11 can be frustrating, often arising from issues such as corrupted system files, Windows Update problems, or missing app components. This guide will walk you through effective methods to resolve this error, ensuring your system runs smoothly again. By following these steps, you’ll be able to fix the problem, whether it involves running system scans, reinstalling problematic applications, or resetting Windows components.
Before you begin, ensure that you have administrative privileges on your Windows 11 machine. Familiarize yourself with the Windows Settings app and have an internet connection ready if you need to reinstall any applications from the Microsoft Store.
Step 1: Uninstall the Problematic Application
The first step in resolving the 0x80070490 error is to identify and uninstall the application causing the issue. To do this:
- Click on the Start menu and type Settings, then press Enter to open it.
- In the Settings window, select Apps from the left sidebar.
- On the right side, click on Installed apps to view all installed applications.
- Search for the app that is causing the error.
- Once found, click the three-dot icon next to the app and select Uninstall.
Confirm any prompts to complete the uninstallation process.
Step 2: Reinstall the Application
After uninstalling the problematic app, the next step is to reinstall it. Here’s how:
- Return to the Start menu and type Microsoft Store, then press Enter to open it.
- In the Microsoft Store, use the search bar to find the application you just uninstalled.
- Select the app from the search results and click on the Install button to download and install it again.
Once the installation is complete, launch the app to see if the error has been resolved.
Step 3: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM Scans
If the issue persists even after reinstalling the app, it may be due to corrupted system files. Running the System File Checker and DISM scans can help repair these files. Follow these steps:
- Press Windows + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin).
- In the terminal, type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow - Wait for the scan to complete. If any issues are found, the tool will attempt to fix them automatically.
- After the SFC scan, run the following command to check for issues with the Windows image:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth - Once both scans are complete, restart your computer.
Step 4: Reset Windows Components (if necessary)
If the error still appears after running the scans, you might need to reset certain Windows components. This can be done through the following steps:
- Open the Windows Terminal (Admin) again.
- Type the following command to reset the Windows Update components and press Enter:
net stop wuauserv - Repeat the command for the following services:
net stop cryptSvcnet stop bitsnet stop msiserver
net start wuauservnet start cryptSvcnet start bitsnet start msiserver
Once completed, check to see if the error has been resolved.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
If you’re still encountering issues, consider the following:
- Ensure that your Windows 11 is up to date by checking for updates in Settings > Windows Update.
- Be cautious when uninstalling applications; make sure they are indeed the ones causing issues.
- If you are not comfortable performing these steps, consider seeking assistance from a tech-savvy friend or a professional.
Completing these steps should resolve the 0x80070490 Element Not Found error, allowing your applications to function correctly once again.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes the 0x80070490 error?
This error typically occurs due to corrupted system files, issues with Windows Updates, or problems with specific applications.
Can I fix this error without reinstalling my operating system?
Yes, following the steps outlined in this guide can help you resolve the error without needing to reinstall Windows.
What should I do if the error persists after following these steps?
If the error continues, consider reaching out to Microsoft Support or exploring community forums for additional assistance.