Windows 11 update fails with Install error 0x800f0983 on Aspire A515-54

Unable to update to latest Windows 11 on Aspire A515-54. All attempts fail with "Install error 0x800f0983". I've upgraded to latest available Acer "BIOS Version/Date Insyde Corp. V1.24, 7/07/2021" but that did not resolve the issue. I contacted Microsoft Support who advise that I need a BIOS version of at least 2023 or 2024 and recommended I contact manufacturer.

Where can I obtain a more recent BIOS to resolve this problem?

Details of Windows 11 update:

2025-09 Cumulative Update for Windows 11 Version 24H2 for x64-based Systems (KB5065426) (26100.6584)

[Edited the thread to add model name to the title]

Accepted answers

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AnhEZ28

Try to run the Windows update troubleshooter.

StevenGen

Try the methods below and see if it fixes the 2025-09 Cumulative Update for Windows 11 Version 24H2 for x64-based Systems (KB5065426) (26100.6584)

Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter Open Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Windows Update > Run troubleshooter
Make sure Windows Update and Background Intelligent Transfer services are available and running.

Press Windows key+R to open Run then type: services.msc

Press Enter to open Services app

Double-click Background Intelligent Transfer Service.

If the Startup status lists Stopped, click Start and then click OK. If the status is Running, right click then select Restart

Double-click Windows Update.

If the Startup status lists Stopped, click Start and then click OK. If the status is Running, right click then select Restart

Please try to run SFC and DISM to check for any system errors and corrupted files. https://support.microsoft.com/windows/using-system-file-checker-in-windows-365e0031-36b1-6031-f804-8fd86e0ef4ca
Reset Windows Update components manually https://www.elevenforum.com/t/reset-windows-update-in-windows-11.3808/

After that, restart your computer

Here's a direct download link of KB5065426 from Microsoft Update Catalog. Download and install the update manually. https://catalog.sf.dl.delivery.mp.microsoft.com/filestreamingservice/files/7342fa97-e584-4465-9b3d-71e771c9db5b/public/windows11.0-kb5065426-x64_32b5f85e0f4f08e5d6eabec6586014a02d3b6224.msu

I look forward to receiving your update and I'm willing to collaborate with you till we resolve the issue. Do keep me informed.

Standard Disclaimer: This is a non-Microsoft website. The page appears to be providing accurate, safe information. Watch out for ads on the site that may advertise products frequently classified as a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Products). Thoroughly research any product advertised on the site before you decide to download and install it.

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dccharron

Many thanks @AnhEZ28

I have already used the Windows Update Troubleshooter and I have run the SFC and DISM as suggested. This had no effect. That's when I chatted with Microsoft Support staff who told me that my version of the BIOS was incompatible with this particular Windows 11 update. They recommended I upgrade the BIOS which I should find on the Acer website. I did find a new version which I installed successfully but it had no effect. I need a more recent version of the BIOS but the laptop is a few years old and I suspect Acer no longer provides updates. I can't find a website for the motherboard maker ("CML") which is where I would hope to find the most recent BIOS. Do you know the website for CML?

AnhEZ28

The motherboard maker is just the one who designs the motherboard layout, not the BIOS. Try to download the update and install it manually. https://www.catalog.update.microsoft.com/Search.aspx?q=KB5065426

Download the 5th one.

Puraw

Hi dccharron

You're not alone — the Aspire A515-54 series has known compatibility issues with Windows 11 version 24H2 (KB5065426). The root cause appears to be firmware-level:

Latest BIOS (v1.24) was released in 2021, before Windows 11 launched. It lacks updated ACPI tables and microcode needed for 24H2.
Microsoft Support is correct: systems may require BIOS from 2023 or newer to install 24H2 successfully.
Acer has not released any newer BIOS for this model, and the motherboard vendor ("CML") does not provide public BIOS updates.

📌 Additional Notes:

All official drivers are dated 2021 and built for Windows 10, not Windows 11.
Even Windows 10 22H2 has failed to install on some units, suggesting deeper firmware limitations.

Unless Acer releases a new BIOS, this model may be capped at Windows 11 22H2 or earlier. Manual installation of KB5065426 via .MSU file has not resolved the issue for most users.