How to Fix Microsoft Store Not Working [Complete Guide]

The Microsoft Store, also known as Windows Store, is an offering of Microsoft for users to view and install apps/services. However, it is not very popular with most users since the app has issues with performance. Bug crashes and speed issues are common, and the “Microsoft store not working” tag is often visible.

Important points to check when the Microsoft Store stops working

If your Windows Store is not working on your system, you should go through particular aspects to confirm the issue. They include:

• The status of the Windows version- is it up to date?
• Are your GPU/video card drivers up to date?
• Is the User Account Control or UAC enabled?

In case these are all actively working, but you are still seeing the Microsoft Store Not Working alert, you should go ahead with the fixes. Let’s begin discussing them.

Possible Reasons Behind Microsoft Store Issues

The Microsoft Store may stop working for several reasons. Sometimes the issue is small, like a temporary glitch. Other times, it can be related to system settings, updates, or network problems. Understanding the cause helps you fix the problem faster and avoid repeating it later.

• Poor or unstable internet connection
  A weak connection can prevent the Store from loading or downloading apps properly. Even small interruptions can cause errors.
• Outdated Windows version
  If your system is not updated, the Store may not function correctly. Updates often include fixes that keep apps running smoothly.
• Corrupted cache files
  Over time, cache data can become damaged. This can lead to loading issues or error messages inside the Store.
• Incorrect date and time settings
  The Store relies on accurate system time. Wrong settings can block connections to Microsoft servers.
• Disabled Windows Update service
  The Store depends on certain services running in the background. If updates are disabled, it may stop working.
• Account-related issues
  Problems with your Microsoft account can affect access. Signing out and signing back in often helps.
• Firewall or antivirus interference
  Security programs may block Store connections by mistake. This can stop downloads or app updates.
• System file corruption
  Missing or damaged system files can affect core Windows features, including the Store.

Best Methods to Fix the Microsoft Store Not Working Issue

The following are the main methods you can utilize to rectify the error. First, check to see what the issue with the error is to use the relevant solution for it.

Fix 1: Run the Apps Troubleshooter for Windows Store

A built-in tool called Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter automatically scans the system for error detection. Upon activation, it can find out the main reasons why the Microsoft Store cannot open.

How to fix the issue?

Step 1: Press the Win+I keys on your keyboard to open the main Windows Settings.

Step 2: Access the “Update & Security” option and then choose “Troubleshoot”.

Step 3: Then, access Windows Store App and double-click your cursor on it. Choose the “Run the Troubleshooter” option.

Step 4: The tool would process the command automatically and fix any issues after detection.

Then, check to see if the Windows Store opens. In case it does not resolve, go forward with the other options.

Fix 2: Reregister your Microsoft Store App

Register your Microsoft Store application again to regain control of the app. This works if some minor glitches are causing the Microsoft Store Not Working error.

How to fix this issue?

Step 1: Click on Windows Key + S and type in PowerShell.

Step 2: Right-click on the Windows PowerShell option and select the “Run as Administrator” option.

Step 3: After the PowerShell starts working, add the following command:

PowerShell -ExecutionPolicy Unrestricted -Command “& {$manifest = (Get-AppxPackage Microsoft.WindowsStore).InstallLocation + ‘AppxManifest.xml’ ; Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register $manifest}”

Step 4: Then, press the Enter button.

This would fix the issue. It is essential to mention that this method is better for users with some technical knowledge, not beginners.

Fix 3: Change Time and Date Settings

In some cases, a wrong input in the Date & Time settings of the system can cause the issue of Windows Store Not Working. The app checks that the date/time of the system syncs with them.

How to fix this issue?

Step 1: Press Win+I keys on your keyboard and access Settings > Time & Language.

Step 2: The Date & Time option is available on the left screen side. The “Set time zone automatically” and “Set Time Automatically” options appear on the right-hand-side panel. 

Slide them off.

Step 3: After this completes, turn the two settings on. Then, restart your device.

Fix 4: Reset Microsoft Store App

In some cases, the Windows Store may not open due to issues in the app itself. Resetting it to its default settings might fix the problem.

How to fix this issue?

Step 1: Open Settings > Apps.

Step 2: Choose the Microsoft Store option from the list that appears, and select Advanced Options.

Step 3: Press the “Reset” button twice, the second time to confirm.

Fix 5: Disable Proxy

The Microsoft Store is not working problem can occur when users run irregular settings for the Proxy network. Therefore, disabling the Proxy is valid here.

How to fix this issue?

Step 1: Access Settings > Apps.

Step 2: Choose the VPN after looking through the list and uninstall it.

Step 3: Open Settings again and open the “Network & Internet” option.

Step 4: Open the Proxy Tab from the left panel and open Manual Proxy Setup > Use a Proxy Server.

Turn this setting off.

Fix 6: Clean the Windows Store Cache

Any damage to the Windows Store cache can cause defects in the Windows Store app and prevent it to open correctly. So at this point, clean out the cache.

How to fix this issue?

Step 1: Click on the Win+R keys on your keyboard. This would open the “Run” dialog box.

Step 2: Type in “WSReset.exe” in the field and press Enter.

Step 3: A command prompt window would appear with no content in it. This would start cleaning the Microsoft Store cache. It would take around 10 seconds to complete, and then the Window would close. This would restart the Store automatically.

Fix 7: Make a new Microsoft Store account

Another common cause for the Microsoft Store to stop working can be a faulty user account. Again, it is better to prepare a new account in this case.

How to fix this issue?

Step 1: Open Settings > Accounts.

Step 2: From the following menu, choose “Family & Other People” on the left. Click on the “Add Someone else to this PC” option from the right panel.

Step 3: Select “I don’t have this person’s sign-in information.”

Step 4: Choose the option for including the user without having a Microsoft account.

Step 5: Set your new username. Press the “Next” option.  

Finally, please enter your new account to see how it functions. If the new account works well, move all personal files to your new Microsoft account and use that consistently. For this, you can download the file sync software of MiniTool ShadowMaker to migrate all files safely.

Step 1: Install the software and launch it on your OS. Open the Sync interface.

Step 2: Then, choose the necessary files you would move from “Source” and choose “OK” next.

Step 3: Select the Destination of the target path, e.g., external HDD.

Step 4: Choose “Sync Now” to start.

Author’s Tip

Start with the basics and move step by step. Check that your internet connection is stable and working properly. Then restart your system to clear temporary glitches that may be affecting the Store. After each step, open the Microsoft Store and see if it works. This saves time and helps you find the exact cause. Avoid jumping to advanced fixes too quickly, as they can make things more complicated.

Build a simple habit of regular system care. Keep your Windows updated so you always have the latest fixes and improvements. Clear cache files from time to time to remove unwanted data that may slow things down. These small actions keep the Microsoft Store running smoothly. Regular maintenance reduces the chances of facing the same issue again.

Conclusion

Fixing issues with the Microsoft Store is usually simpler than it looks. Most problems come from small system errors, outdated settings, or temporary glitches. By checking basic things like internet connection, updates, and cache, you can solve the issue without much effort. These steps are safe and can be done even if you are not very technical.

If the problem continues, deeper checks like resetting the Store or repairing system files may be needed. It is important to go step by step and not rush. Careful troubleshooting helps avoid new issues. Once fixed, keeping your system updated and clean can prevent the problem from coming back again.

FAQs:

1. Why is Microsoft Store not opening on my PC?
This usually happens due to cache problems, outdated Windows versions, or temporary system glitches. Sometimes, background services may not be running properly. Restarting your system or resetting the Store often fixes the issue quickly.

2. Can I reinstall Microsoft Store if it is not working?
Yes, you can reinstall it using PowerShell commands. This helps fix deeper issues when normal methods do not work. It restores the app to its default state without affecting your personal files.

3. Does resetting Microsoft Store delete my apps?
No, resetting the Store does not remove installed apps. It only clears temporary data and settings related to the Store. Your apps and files remain safe.