How to Troubleshoot Microsoft Store Download Errors and Get Your Apps Downloading Again

Microsoft Store download errors usually happen because of connection problems, corrupted cache, or conflicting system settings. To fix this, you should reset the Microsoft Store app, clear its cache, and check your network and Windows Update settings. Using Windows built-in troubleshooters can also help diagnose and resolve issues quickly.

What causes Microsoft Store download errors and how to identify your issue

When Microsoft Store downloads fail, you might see error messages like:

Download failed
Something went wrong
Error code 0x80072EE7

You may also notice the Store app freezing during downloads or updates never completing. Common causes include:

• Unstable or disconnected internet connection.
• Corrupted Microsoft Store cache or app data.
• Incorrect system date, time, or region settings.
• Firewall or antivirus software blocking Store access.
• Windows Update service issues affecting Store downloads.

To identify your specific issue, note when the error occurs: with every app, only updates, or specific downloads. Test your internet connection by browsing websites or streaming video. If the Store app crashes or won’t open, corrupted cache is likely. These observations guide you to the right fix without unnecessary steps.

Is your Microsoft Store app or cache corrupted? How to reset and clear cache

Resetting the Microsoft Store app and clearing its cache often resolves errors caused by corrupted data. This is safe and won’t remove your installed apps.

1. Open the Start menu, type "wsreset," and press Enter.

wsreset.exe

This command clears the Store cache and automatically reopens the app when done.

2. If problems persist, reset the Store app through Settings:

• Open Settings and go to Apps > Apps & features.
• Find "Microsoft Store" and click it.
• Select "Advanced options," scroll down, and click "Reset." Confirm if prompted.

This resets the app to default settings without affecting your Microsoft account or installed apps.

3. If the Store still misbehaves, check for Windows updates because the Store app updates through Windows Update and may need a system update to work properly.

Could your network or system settings be blocking downloads? What to check next

Even if your internet seems fine, some settings can block Microsoft Store downloads. Check these:

• Confirm your internet connection is stable by visiting websites or streaming video.
• Verify your system date, time, and region settings are correct since mismatches can cause errors.

Check firewall and antivirus settings:

• Open Windows Security and select Firewall & network protection.
• Click "Allow an app through firewall" and make sure "Microsoft Store" is allowed on your active network profiles.

If you use a VPN or proxy, temporarily disable it because it can interfere with Store downloads.

Also, verify the Windows Update service is running:

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Scroll to "Windows Update," right-click, and select "Properties."
3. Ensure Startup type is "Automatic" and the service is running. If not, click "Start."

Use Windows troubleshooters to automatically detect and fix Store download problems

Windows has built-in troubleshooters that can identify and fix Microsoft Store download problems.

1. Open Settings and go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
2. Click "Additional troubleshooters."

Run these troubleshooters one by one:

• Windows Store Apps: Detects issues with the Store app.
• Internet Connections: Finds connection problems affecting downloads.
• Windows Update: Fixes update-related issues that impact Store downloads.

Follow the on-screen instructions. The troubleshooters might reset services, clear temporary files, or apply fixes automatically. Running them is safe and often resolves problems without manual steps.

How to confirm your Microsoft Store downloads are working again and avoid future errors

After applying fixes, check that the Store works by downloading or updating a free app:

1. Open Microsoft Store.
2. Find a free app or game and click "Get" or "Install."
3. Make sure the download starts and finishes without errors.

If the download completes, your issue is likely resolved.

To prevent future errors:

• Keep a stable internet connection.
• Regularly run Windows Update to keep your system and Store app current.
• Clear the Store cache occasionally using wsreset.
• Avoid blocking Store network access through firewalls or VPNs unless properly configured.

If errors return, repeat these troubleshooting steps or check for new system updates.

Before you start: Applicability and prerequisites

These troubleshooting steps apply to Windows 10 and Windows 11 Microsoft Store users experiencing download or update errors.

You don’t need administrator privileges for cache clearing or using troubleshooters, but resetting the Store app or changing services may require administrator access.

No system restart or backup is required before starting, but restarting after fixes can help.

Start by confirming your Windows version and ensuring you have an active internet connection.

Conclusion

If Microsoft Store downloads still fail after these steps, check Microsoft’s support resources or community forums for your specific error code. Some issues like system file corruption or account problems may need deeper troubleshooting. Meanwhile, keeping Windows updated and running built-in troubleshooters regularly can prevent many download errors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the Microsoft Store say download failed even with a good internet connection?

Even if your internet works elsewhere, firewall settings, incorrect system time, or corrupted Store cache can cause downloads to fail. Checking and fixing these areas usually solves the problem.

Is it safe to reset the Microsoft Store app?

Yes. Resetting the Store app clears its cache and settings without deleting your installed apps or Microsoft account data. It’s a safe way to fix download issues.

Can Windows Update issues affect Microsoft Store downloads?

Yes. The Microsoft Store depends on Windows Update services for some downloads and updates. If Windows Update is disabled or not working properly, Store downloads can fail.