Fix: Windows Error 0x80070490

Overall, Windows is an easy-to-use operating system and the most popular choice for both beginners and advanced PC users.

However, Windows still has its fair share of bugs and errors. Unfortunately, they can be pretty confusing and difficult to deal with.

One such bug is the notorious Windows 0x80070490 Error, which can occur while upgrading your operating system to a newer version. Some users have also reported seeing it when purchasing or downloading apps from the Microsoft Store.

This guide will cover the 0x80070490 error’s origin and multiple proven solutions for it, as well as how to prevent it from happening in the future.

Let’s get started!

The Problem Explained

Every Windows 10/11 error has a different origin and effect on your system. Some prevent you from changing specific settings, while others can keep you from using your computer entirely.

Although the 0x80070490 Windows 10/11 error appears slightly more forgiving at first glance, it can be a significant problem for your PC if not resolved quickly, and here’s why.

The 0x80070490 error on Windows occurs when a user attempts to upgrade/update their operating system. It prevents them from doing so.

If you’re aware of the importance of Windows updates, you already know what this can potentially lead to.

In a time when online security needs to be taken very seriously, missing out on important security-focused Windows updates can threaten your privacy and personal safety.

To resolve the 0x80070490 Windows 10 or Windows 11 problem, there are a few proven methods you can use. Doing this as soon as possible means restoring your ability to download critical operating system updates without further problems.  

Fix 1: Update The Windows 10/11 Mail & Calendar App

A Reddit user offered this solution, and multiple other Windows users confirmed that it works in the comment section.

It’s a really simple fix but if you’ve never done it before, follow the steps below to ensure you get it right on the first try.

Here’s what you need to do:

1. Open the Microsoft Store and find the Mail & Calendar App.
2. Click “Update” to download the latest changes.
3. Wait for the process to complete, then restart your PC.

The 0x80070490 error should now be gone.

This fix works because the bug is resolved by the latest Mail & Calendar app update, but you might not have it as it wasn’t included for everyone in the Windows Update.

This will most likely solve the problem. If it doesn’t, there are other methods you can try.

Fix 2: Run The System File Checker Tool (SFC.exe)

At first, this looks like quite an advanced fix, and it could seem intimidating for those who have never used the command prompt or anything like it.

Fortunately, you will find that this process is quite simple once you try it. Take a look at the steps below:

1. Click on the Windows Search located in the bottom-left corner of your taskbar.
2. Type in Command Prompt, then right-click it and select Run as Administrator.

When the command prompt launches, type in the following commands and press Enter after each one:

• DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Scanhealth
• DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth
• sfc /scannow

The last command (sfc /scannow) will initiate a scan process which you need to let complete before closing the command prompt. There shouldn’t be any errors detected after the scan finishes.

A Microsoft Official recommended this fix, and numerous users have confirmed its reliability. It’s a safe way of dealing with this problem.

When done, restart your computer and see if the 0x80070490 error persists.

Fix 3: Reset The Mail & Calendar App

There’s an easy way to reset the Mail & Calendar App, and we recommend it as it is a working solution for many Windows users encountering this error.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Press Windows + I on your keyboard at the same time to open the Windows Settings panel.
2. Click on Apps and select Apps & Features from the left bar menu.
   
3. Look for the Mail & Calendar app. You might have to scroll down to find it.
4. Click on the app and select Advanced Options.
5. Scroll down until you see the Reset button, then click it.
   

The app will now reset, and you can re-launch it afterward. You don’t have to restart your PC after performing this fix. The problem should no longer occur.

Conclusion

You now know how to fix this notorious Windows problem, which prevents users from downloading Windows updates and using certain apps and features.

Remember always to download the most recent official updates published by Microsoft for all Windows apps, as this keeps your PC protected against the latest bugs and exploits.

As mentioned above, users are sometimes required to manually check for updates for certain apps, as they aren’t always included in the automatic Windows updates. This can cause problems such as the 0x80070490 error we tackled in this guide.