Windows 10: Error 0x80071160 with Cumulative Update

Hi all, I have a Dell G5 5587 machine with Windows 10 home version 21H1, OS build 19043.1266. 64 bit OS. All my drivers and firmware are up-to date.I am quite frustrated since more than a month with regards to the cumulative update . The update takes 6 to 8h+ to download and install. At some point in time, the installation fails and I get an error 0x80071160. The laptop has become unusable since it has become extremely sluggish and unresponsive. A click takes a few seconds to a few minutes to process. Once it fails, I restart the machine and it takes 1h to boot.I have scoured the web for this

:)

 

WU KB4556799 fails at Inst. 100% Error 0x80071160 (DISM log attached)

Sometimes, most of us when in a rush to fix our issue, we forget a quintessential step, that is to do a full system image backup.
With that being said, I don't really know your OS setup, but I would suggest:
-To disconnect all external HDDs and disable your McAfee total protection
-Run sfc /scannow
-Troubleshoot Windows Update. If that doesn't help, you can also try to reset Windows Update:
Reset Windows Update in Windows 10

-Lastly, you can also try this link where the same issue seems to have been resolved:
[SOLVED] - Windows Update Error 0x80071160 on Cumulative updates for July/August | Sysnative Forums

 

WU KB4556799 fails at Inst. 100% Error 0x80071160 (DISM log attached)

I do backups - but probably not often enough.
I disconncted my external drive.
I disabled McAfee A/V.
I ran sfc /scannow twice, each time it said it couldn't complete.
I ran sfc fix as per that link, twice.
The update still fails.
I'll probably end up formatting this drive as it isn't my main one and is just becoming a nuisance.
Thanks for your help anyway.

 

Windows Update KB4556799 fails at 100% Error 0x80071160

Yes, that's about it in a nutshell. Yes I could and will probably use a VM. Indeed I used to use one but one not so recent Cumulative Update for W10 refused to install BECAUSE VM's were turned on in my BIOS, so that's why I use derogatory terms when referring to this OS.