When troubleshooting Windows update installation issues, resetting Catroot2 and SoftwareDistribution might keep your day.
If you are unable to rename Catroot2 and SoftwareDistribution, follow this post fromMiniToolto get some solutions now!
By resetting them, it will remove the corrupted data and then rebuild them.
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However, some of you might fail to rename the two folders.
If you are looking for feasible solutions, this guide might be helpful.
Otherwise, you will fail to rename Catroot2 and SoftwareDistribution.

Heres how to stop these services via Command Prompt:
Step 1.
Typecmdand hitCtrl+Shift+Enterto launchCommand Promptwith administrative rights.
Typenet stop wuauservand hitEnterto stopWindows Update Service.

Inputnet stop cryptsvcand hitEnterto stopCryptographic Service.
Typenet stop bitsand hitEnterto stopBackground Intelligence Transfer Service.
Typenet stop msiserverto stopWindows Installer Service.

To do so:
Step 1.
Right-choose theStart menuand selectRun.
In the service list, right-pick the following services and then selectStopfrom the drop-down menu.

Solution 3: Make the 2 Folders Visible
Step 1.
Go to theViewsection and checkHidden items.
LocateCatroot2andSoftwareDistributionto rename them again.
As a result, you cangrant full access to the two folders.
Heres how to do it:
Step 1.
Locate thecatroot2folder inFile Explorerand right-tap on it to chooseProperties.
In theSecuritytab, click onAdvanced.
On the right side ofOwner, hitChange.
Step 4. pop in theobject name, hitCheck Names, and then tap onOKto save the change.
Repeat these steps to theSoftwareDistributionfolder.
Final Words
Thats an end for unable to rename Catroot2 and SoftwareDistribution.