'Service registration is missing or corrupt' Error

The 'Service registration is missing or corrupt' Error is an issue, which you may see on your computer when Windows Update is initialized. While you will not have any trouble using Windows after encounter this error, you may be unable to make use of the latest Windows updates, which may introduce fixes to vulnerabilities, performance improvements, helpful utilities, and other goodies. Needless to say, it is recommended to try and fix the 'Service registration is missing or corrupt' Error as soon as possible in order to restore Windows Update's functionality. The troubleshooting methods below may help you get the 'Service registration is missing or corrupt' Error resolved quickly and efficiently:

Use the Windows System File Checker

The Windows System File Checker, also known as SFC, is a handy utility, which can verify the integrity of Windows files and components, ensuring that none of them are corrupted or modified in an unwanted manner. It is one of the first things to try and resolve the 'Service registration is missing or corrupt' Error:

• Run the Command Prompt from the Start Menu by right-clicking it and selecting 'Run as administrator.'
• Type sfc/scannow and press Enter.
• Wait for the operation to complete. You may be asked to reboot your PC.

See if the Windows Update Service is Operational

Sometimes the Windows Update service may stop working unexpectedly and become the reason for the 'Service registration is missing or corrupt' Error. To verify that this is not the case, press Windows + R to launch the 'Run' prompt. Then, type 'services.msc' in the input box, and press 'OK.' This will show you the list of available Windows services – scroll down until you find 'Windows Update' and check to the right to see if it is set to 'Running.'

If 'Windows Update' is not running, then you need to right-click it, select 'Properties,' and then press 'Start.'

Reset the Microsoft Store Cache

Some users report that this fixed the problem, so it is worth giving it a shot, especially considering how quickly it can be done. Open the Start Menu, type 'wsreset.exe' and launch the application.

Reinstall the '.NET Framework'

The .NET Framework is used in many parts of the Windows operating system, as well as in software you use daily. If any of its files/components have been corrupted, it may trigger the 'Service registration is missing or corrupt' Error. To verify that the .NET Framework components are doing well, you need to go to the Windows Control Panel -> Programs -> Turn Windows features on or off. Once the list of Windows Features is open, you need to uncheck all '.NET Framework' entries, and then click OK. This will uninstall these components. After this, repeat the same operation, but this time make sure to tick the checkboxes in front of '.NET Framework.' Press 'OK' and wait for the installation to be completed.