Error 403 is an HTTP status code; this error is triggered when the resource identified by a URL is denied permission or forbidden by the server. This error often occurs while accessing the Windows Update website. The error can also appear when using Web accelerator software or a Firewall. However, the most common reason is due to a damaged host file or damaged Internet Explorer file. Nevertheless, error 403 indicates a fundamental access problem; an urgent fix is required, so you can access Windows Update. This error code does not apply to newer versions of Windows. Generally, it is an issue with Windows 98 and below.

1. Close Internet Explorer and any other programs after receiving the “Error 403” message. See Things to know about “HTTP 403 Forbidden”.

2. Click on the “Start” button and then click on the “Control Panel” option. Double-click on the “Add/Remove Programs” option in the Control Panel window.

3. Click the “Start” menu and the “Find” option. Click the “Files or Folders” settings, and then type “Wuv3is.dll” in the box. Click the “OK” button.

4. Right-click the file name and then click the “Delete” option from the drop-down menu. This deletes the entire Windows Update download history.

5. Click the “Start” menu and the “Run” command.

6. Type the “Explorer” link in the box and click the “OK” button.

7. Expand the “Program Files” in the left pane and then the Windows Update section in the left pane.

8. Click the right pane to select the “Wuhistv3.log” file.

9. Click the “Edit” button and the “Invert selection” option.

10. Press the “Delete” key, on your keyboard, and then click the “Yes” button to confirm.

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