How to Stop a Failed Office 2003 KB907417 Update
Question details
The user needs to stop a repeatedly failing Microsoft Office 2003 update (KB907417) that triggers error code 0x80070002.
- Product
- Microsoft Office 2003
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Running Windows Update causes an obsolete Office 2003 update to attempt installation and continuously fail.
- Observed behavior
- Windows Update repeatedly tries to install KB907417, fails during the process, and displays error 0x80070002.
Verify whether you actually have Microsoft Office 2003 currently installed on your computer, as this error often occurs when Windows Update detects leftover registry keys from an already uninstalled legacy program.
Hide the Failed Update Using Windows Update Troubleshooter
Use the official Microsoft 'Show or hide updates' tool to prevent Windows from attempting to download and install this specific legacy update.
If you no longer use Office 2003 or have already uninstalled it, Windows might still get stuck trying to patch remnant files. Hiding the update instructs Windows to ignore it in future scans.
Download the 'Show or hide updates' troubleshooter package (wushowhide.diagcab) from the official Microsoft download center.
Double-click the downloaded file to launch the troubleshooter, click 'Next', and allow it to scan your system for pending updates.
Click 'Hide updates', locate the Office 2003 KB907417 update in the list, check the box next to it, and click 'Next' to apply the changes.
Uninstall Obsolete Office 2003 Components
Remove any remaining Microsoft Office 2003 installations or compatibility packs that are triggering the update request.
Upgrade to WPS Office for a Modern, Error-Free Experience
Stop struggling with obsolete Office 2003 update failures and persistent error codes. WPS Office provides a modern, lightweight, and completely free alternative that seamlessly handles your documents without the headache of legacy software updates.
- 1. Download the installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button.
- 2. Install the software: Run the downloaded installer and follow the quick setup wizard.
- 3. Open your documents: Launch WPS Office to instantly view and edit all your existing Microsoft Office files.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Windows keep trying to install an update for Office 2003?
Windows Update relies on system registry keys and installed file directories to determine which updates are needed. If you previously uninstalled Office 2003 but remnant files or registry entries were left behind, Windows Update mistakenly believes the software is still present and attempts to patch it.
What does update error code 0x80070002 mean?
Error 0x80070002 typically translates to 'File Not Found'. In the context of an Office 2003 update, it means Windows Update downloaded the patch but cannot find the necessary application files on your hard drive to apply it to, usually because the application was already removed.
Will hiding the update cause security issues?
No. If you no longer use Office 2003, hiding the update poses no security risk since the software isn't actively being used. Microsoft ended extended support for Office 2003 in April 2014, so upgrading to a modern suite is highly recommended for security.
Can I manually clear the Windows Update cache to stop this?
Yes. You can clear the cache by opening the Services app, temporarily stopping the 'Windows Update' service, deleting all files inside the 'C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download' folder, and then restarting the service.
