If you've recently encountered some problems running Windows Update on a Windows 7 PC, you're not alone. As first reported by Computerworld, some Windows 7 users are reporting that Windows Update is broken, throwing up error 80248015. The cause, it seems, may be linked to an expiration date Microsoft forgot to change.
A Microsoft Answers thread) on the error is filled with replies, with some users noting they're seeing an error with an accompanying message stating "Windows Update cannot currently check for updates because the service is not running. You may need to restart your computer." ZDNet's Mary Jo Foley has reported a different error, in which Windows 7 simply states "Windows could not search for new updates." According to a post on Ghacks, some are reporting success with getting updates to work once more by setting the PC's date to something before March 12, 2017.
Microsoft has yet to comment on the issue.
Despite losing mainstream support in January 2015, Windows 7 still commands a significant portion of the PC market. Windows 7 is still set to receive security updates through 2020, making a fix for the current issue important for those who still depend on the aging OS.
We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more.
With Windows 10X on the backburner, what's next for Windows as a whole?
With recent reports revealing that Microsoft has put Windows 10X on the backburner, the question around what the future looks like for Windows is more apparent than ever. Windows 10X was supposed to lay the foundation for the next generation of Windows, but with that no longer happening, where does that leave Windows as a whole?
Mass Effect 3's multiplayer was crazy fun, and I'm going to miss it
Mass Effect 3 had a multiplayer mode, tangential to the main story and tacked on thanks to a corporate mandate. It was still great fun to play, and I'm going to miss it when the Legendary Edition launches without it.
Xbox and Halo turn 20 this year, and Xbox wants the fans to help celebrate
November 15, 2021 will mark the 20 year anniversary of Xbox and Halo, and the Xbox team is starting to celebrate early. Starting today and lasting until this fall, Xbox is celebrating with new merch, announcements, fan events, and more.
These laptops have bright screens great for outdoor use
Due to the never-ending war against sun glare, laptop developers have made their laptop screens brighter than ever in recent years. Here's a collection of some of our favorite laptops that have bright displays.