Fix: Media Creation Tool Error 0x8007043c - 0x90017

Note that outdated Windows can trigger this error

Windows 11 » Repair

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by Henderson Jayden Harper 

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Key notes

  • Media Creation tool error code 0x8007043C – 0x90017 prevents users from accessing the Windows upgrade tool.
  • The error may occur due to corrupt system files and malware infection on the PC.
  • Running an SFC and DISM scan can fix the error in no time.
media creation tool error 0x8007043c - 0x90017

Media Creation Tool is a utility tool available on Windows PCs that allows you to upgrade your PC to the latest Windows version. Users can create a Windows installation USB drive disc to perform a clean install or to repair a problematic PC.

However, users report the Media Creation tool error code 0x8007043C – 0x90017 when using it.

What causes Media Creation Tool error 0x8007043c – 0x90017?

Many factors may be responsible for the error code 0x8007043C – 0x90017 when using the Media creation tool. Some factors that can cause the error are:

  • No permission to run – The error 0x8007043c – 0x90017 from the Media Creation tool suggests it doesn’t have permission to run. Try to run the app as administrator.
  • Corrupt or missing system files – Corrupt system files can impede the Media Creation tool on your PC from running into errors.
  • Malware or virus on your PC – Malware or virus can block the communication between the tool and the system, resulting in the inability to run this software on your PC.
  • Outdated drivers and Windows OS – An outdated Windows operating system may prompt the error code 0x8007043c – 0×90017 when using the Media Creation tool.

Fortunately, you can try a couple of fixes to get the Media Creation tool working again and upgrade your OS.

How can I fix the Media Creation tool error 0x8007043c – 0x90017?

Try the following preliminary checks before proceeding with any advanced troubleshooting steps:

  • Turn off background apps running on your computer.
  • Temporarily disable third-party antivirus software.
  • Restart Windows in Safe Mode and check if the error persists.
  • Install all the new OS updates.
  • Right-click on the Media Creation Tool executable file and select Run as administrator from the list.

If you can’t fix the problem, try the solutions below.

1. Run the SFC and DISM scans

  1. Left-click the Start button, type command prompt, then select Run as administrator.
  2. Click Yes on the User Account Control (UAC) prompt.
  3. Type the following and press Enter: sfc /scannow
  4. Type the following commands and press Enter: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  5. Restart your PC and check if the updates.exe still appears.

Running SFC and DISM scan on your PC will detect and repair corrupt system files causing the Media Creation tool error. Check how to fix the run-as-administrator option if it’s not working on your PC.

2. Run Windows Defender scan

  1. Left-click the Start button, type windows security, then click Enter.
  2. Click on Virus & Threat Protection from the menu and select the Scan option.
  3. Then choose Full scan and click the Scan now button and wait while the scan completes.

Running Windows Defender scan will find and remove any malware and viruses on your computer. Read how to fix the Windows Virus and threat protection not working on Windows 10/11.

3. Use Bootable media

  1. Launch your browser and go to the official Microsoft page to download Windows Disk Image.
  2. After the download, open the folder where you downloaded the ISO file.
  3. Right-click the ISO file and select Properties from the drop-down.
  4. Go to the General tab, click Change under Opens with and select Windows Explorer, then click the Apply button.
  5. Right-click the ISO file again and select Mount from the drop-down.
  6. A virtual bootable disc will be created, then double-click on it to view the contents.
  7. Double-click the setup.exe file to begin the setup process for Windows.

Upgrading from a bootable drive is an alternative to the Media Creation tool. However, there are also tools to create multi-boot USB drives that may help you.

Alternatively, our readers can check our guide on Windows Upgrade Error 0xc1900208 and how to fix it.

Also, you can read our guide on how to fix Windows Update error 0x8007043c on your PC.

In conclusion, if you encounter the Media Creation Tool error 0x8007043c – 0x90017, this guide should help troubleshoot it. For further questions or suggestions, kindly drop them in the comments section.

Henderson Jayden Harper

Henderson Jayden Harper Shield

Windows Software Expert

Passionate about technology, Crypto, software, Windows, and everything computer-related, he spends most of his time developing new skills and learning more about the tech world. He also enjoys gaming, writing, walking his dog, and reading and learning about new cultures. He also enjoys spending private time connecting with nature.