After looking at this issue thoroughly, it turns out that there are several different underlying causes that might be triggering this error code. Here’s a list of potential culprits that might be responsible for the apparition of the 0x800700aa error code: Now that you are familiar with every potential culprit that might be responsible for the apparition of the 0x800700aa error code with Windows Defender, move down to the next potential fix below:
Method 1: Running SFC and DISM scans
As it turns out, by far the most common culprit for this particular issue is some kind of system file corruption that is affecting Windows Defender files that are being called into action when a scan for a new version is initiated. Some users that we’re also seeing the 0x800700aa issue have managed to resolve it by running a couple of utilities designed to fix logical errors and system file corruption – DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) and SFC (System File Checker). These two tools operate similarly, but our recommendation is to burn both in quick succession in order to maximize your chances of resolving the 0x800700aa. SFC (System File Checker) replaces corrupted files by using a local archive to replace corrupted instances with healthy copies, while DISM relies on the WU component to download healthy copies to replace bad data. Note: Generally, DISM is better at fixing OS-related components, while SFC is better at fixing logical errors. Here’s a quick guide on running both an SFC and DISM scans from an elevated CMD window in order to resolve the 0x800700aa error with Windows Defender: If the same 0x800700aa error with Windows Defender is still occurring, move down to the next method below.
Method 2: Enabling Windows Defender in Safe Mode
If running DISM and SFC scans didn’t fix the issue in your case, there’s a big chance Windows Defender is throwing this error due to some kind 3rd party conflict that is affecting certain system file dependencies used by the built-in antivirus suite. Some users dealing with the same 0x800700aa error (either at startup or when the utility is launched) have reportedly managed to fix the issue by boosting their computer in Safe Mode and enabling the security suite while the system was not permitted to run any 3rd party processes and services. While booting in Safe Mode, your Windows is configured to load the bare minimum processes – Safe run will not run autoexec.bat, config.sys files, most drivers, dedicated graphics drivers, 3rd party processes, etc. If you suspect that a driver or 3rd party process is interfering with Windows Defender, follow these instructions to boot your Windows 10 computer in safe mode. After you have successfully booted in Safe Mode, repeat the action that was previously causing the 0x800700aa error and see if the issue is now fixed. Note: If this operation allows you to enable Windows Defender, the change should be carried over when you boot your system normally. If the same problem is still occurring in safe mode when you attempt to enable Windows Defender, move down to the next potential fix below.
Method 3: Refreshing every Corrupted Windows 10 Computer
If none of the methods above have worked for you, it’s very likely that you’re dealing with some type of underlying system file corruption that is triggering the 0x800700aa error when attempting to launch Windows Defender. In this case, the only thing you can do is to reset every relevant OS component that’s related to your current Windows installation. In order to do this, there are 2 different methods that will allow you to do this:
Repair install – This is hands-down the best way of resetting every relevant Windows component because it allows you to do this without touching any of your personal files present on the OS drive. However, that the main disadvantage is that this procedure is quite tedious and you’ll be required to use compatible installation media to perform this operation.Clean install – This is by far an easier procedure because it can be initiated directly from the GUI menu of your Windows 10 installation. However, unless you manage to back up your data in advance, expect to lose every personal data on the OS drive (applications, games, personal media, documents, etc.)
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