Troubleshooting Windows Server 2008 R2: Error 080073712 and Component Store

Troubleshooting Windows Server 2008 R2 Error 0x80073712: Component Store Corruption

Windows Server 2008 R2 is a robust and stable operating system, but it can encounter errors from time to time. One such error is 0x80073712, which is related to the component store or WinSxS folder. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and solutions for this error in a Windows Server 2008 R2 environment.

Understanding Component Store Corruption

The component store, or WinSxS folder, is a crucial part of the Windows operating system. It contains all the system files, including binaries, shared DLLs, and other components necessary for the proper functioning of the OS. Over time, due to software installations, updates, or system crashes, the component store can become corrupted, leading to various errors, including 0x80073712.

Symptoms of Component Store Corruption

When the component store gets corrupted, you may notice the following symptoms:

• Applications fail to install or run properly.
• System services crash or stop working.
• Windows Updates fail to install or rollback.
• The system becomes unstable or crashes frequently.

Causes of Error 0x80073712

The primary cause of error 0x80073712 is component store corruption. However, several factors can cause this corruption:

• Incomplete or interrupted Windows Updates.
• Improper software installations or uninstallations.
• Virus or malware infections.
• Power failures or system crashes.

Resolving Error 0x80073712

To resolve component store corruption and error 0x80073712 in a Windows Server 2008 R2 environment, follow these steps:

1. Run the System File Checker (SFC): The SFC utility can scan and repair corrupted system files, including those in the component store. Run sfc /scannow from an elevated Command Prompt and allow the scan to complete. If any issues are detected, the SFC tool will attempt to repair them.
2. Perform a DISM Scan: The Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool can repair and restore corrupted system components and the component store. Run DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth from an elevated Command Prompt and wait for the scan to complete. This process may take some time.
3. Reset the Component Store: If the above steps do not resolve the issue, you may need to reset the component store. This process will replace the corrupted files with healthy versions from a Windows Server 2008 R2 installation media. To reset the component store, run DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth /Source:C:\mount\windows, replacing C:\mount\windows with the path to your Windows Server 2008 R2 installation media. Keep in mind that this process will require a reboot after completion.
4. Perform a System Restore: If all else fails, you can use System Restore to revert the system to a previous state when it was functioning correctly. To do this, you need to have a restore point available before the corruption occurred. After booting into the System

Restore mode, choose the appropriate restore point and wait for the process to complete. Once done, the system should be restored to a functional state.

References

• Error 0x80073712 when you install a Windows Update in Windows Vista or in a later version of Windows, https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/troubleshoot/windows-server/windows-update/error-0x80073712-when-install-windows-update
• Component Store Corruption in Windows Server 2008 R2, https://www.experts-exchange.com/articles/31175/Component-Store-Corruption-in-Windows-Server-2008-R2.html

Although making major updates to Windows Server 2008 R2 is not recommended, addressing component store corruption and error 0x80073712 is essential to keep your server operating at its peak performance.