Fixing Microsoft Store Apps That Don’t Update Automatically on Windows

If your Microsoft Store apps aren’t updating automatically despite enabling the feature, it usually means something is blocking the process. Common causes include disabled update settings, network restrictions like metered connections or firewalls, or system problems such as corrupted cache or pending Windows updates. By checking your settings and following safe troubleshooting steps, you can fix these issues and restore automatic updates without risking your system’s stability.

Why aren’t my Microsoft Store apps updating automatically?

Automatic updates can stop working when the setting is turned off, which sometimes happens after a system update or by accident. Network restrictions, such as using a metered connection, can pause updates to save data. Firewalls or security software blocking the Store can also prevent updates from downloading. Additionally, corrupted cache data in the Microsoft Store app or conflicts with other system processes may cause problems. Temporary glitches in the Store app or pending Windows updates can also interfere with automatic updates. Identifying these causes helps you apply the right fix.

How do I confirm automatic updates are turned on?

First, open the Microsoft Store app. Click your profile icon at the top right, then select "App settings." Make sure the toggle under "App updates" is ON to enable automatic updates for all your apps.

Next, check your network settings. If you have a metered connection enabled, automatic updates might be paused. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi or Ethernet, select your connection, and ensure "Set as metered connection" is OFF.

Finally, check Windows Update for any pending updates. Some Store components depend on Windows Update working properly. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and install any available updates.

What steps can I take to fix apps not updating automatically?

1. Sign out and back into your Microsoft account in the Store:

• Open Microsoft Store, click your profile icon, and select "Sign out."
• Close the Store, reopen it, and sign in again.

This refreshes your account connection.

2. Make sure Microsoft Store can run in the background:

• Go to Settings > Privacy > Background apps.
• Find Microsoft Store and confirm it’s allowed to run in the background.

3. Check your internet connection and firewall settings to ensure the Store isn’t blocked.
4. Reset the Microsoft Store cache to clear corrupted data:

wsreset.exe

This command clears the Store cache and reopens it. If the Store doesn’t open or the issue remains, continue.

5. Run the Windows Store Apps troubleshooter:

• Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
• Select "Windows Store Apps" and run the troubleshooter.

It will scan for common issues and suggest fixes.

How can I verify the fixes worked and apps update correctly?

After applying fixes, open Microsoft Store and click the "Library" icon at the lower-left. Click "Get updates" to see if apps start updating automatically.

You can also wait to see if apps update on their own without manual action. If automatic updates resume, the issue is fixed.

If apps still don’t update, check the Store’s update history or notifications for error messages. Repeating troubleshooting or restarting Windows Update might help.

How can I avoid update problems in the future?

Keep Windows up to date by regularly installing updates, as this ensures the Store and its services work properly.

Maintain a stable internet connection and avoid setting your network as metered unless necessary. If you use VPNs or firewalls, configure them to allow Microsoft Store traffic.

Periodically clear the Store cache using the wsreset.exe command to prevent corruption.

Check that automatic updates remain enabled in the Store settings, especially after major Windows upgrades or system changes.

Conclusion

If your Microsoft Store apps stop updating automatically, start by confirming your update and network settings are correct. Use safe troubleshooting steps like signing out and back in, allowing background activity, resetting the Store cache, and running the troubleshooter. Keeping Windows and the Store app updated and maintaining a stable connection will help prevent future problems. These steps fix most issues without risking your system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I schedule automatic updates for Microsoft Store apps?

Microsoft Store apps update automatically when enabled, but there’s no built-in option to schedule specific times. Updates usually happen when your device is idle and connected to the internet.

Why do some apps update but not others automatically?

Some apps may require manual updates if their settings differ or they need extra permissions. Large updates might wait for a stable connection or user approval before installing.