Microsoft Store Not Opening and Apps Won't Launch on Windows 10/11

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The Microsoft Store is a convenient way to download apps, games, and other digital content on Windows 10 and 11. However, users sometimes encounter an issue where the Microsoft Store won't open, or installed apps refuse to launch. This can be a frustrating experience, especially when you're trying to install new software or use an app. Fortunately, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve this problem. Below are some effective methods to fix the issue of the Microsoft Store not opening and apps not launching.

Windows 10 Store Not opening and Apps Won't Launch

1. Check Your Internet Connection

A stable internet connection is essential for the Microsoft Store and apps to function properly. If your internet connection is weak or disconnected, the Store and apps may not work.

  • Check Connection: Ensure that you are connected to the internet. Open a web browser and visit a website to confirm your connection.
  • Restart Router: If your connection is unstable, try restarting your router or modem.

2. Adjust Date and Time Settings

Incorrect date and time settings can prevent the Microsoft Store from opening and apps from launching, as these settings affect how your system communicates with Microsoft servers.

  • Open Settings: Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  • Go to Time & Language: Click on "Time & language."
  • Set Time Automatically: Toggle on "Set time automatically" and "Set time zone automatically."
  • Manually Adjust Date and Time (if necessary): If automatic settings don't work, toggle off the options and manually set the correct date and time.

3. Run the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter

Windows comes with a built-in troubleshooter that can help diagnose and fix issues with the Microsoft Store and apps.

  • Open Settings: Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  • Navigate to Update & Security: Click on "Update & Security" and then "Troubleshoot" from the left-hand menu.
  • Run the Troubleshooter: Scroll down to "Windows Store Apps" and click "Run the troubleshooter." Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

4. Clear the Microsoft Store Cache

A corrupted cache can cause the Microsoft Store to malfunction. Clearing the cache can help resolve this issue.

  • Run WSReset Command:
    • Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
    • Type wsreset.exe and press Enter.
    • A blank Command Prompt window will appear, and after a few moments, the Microsoft Store will open automatically, indicating that the cache has been cleared.

5. Reset the Microsoft Store App

If clearing the cache doesn't work, you may need to reset the Microsoft Store app itself. This will remove any corrupt data but won't delete your apps or data.

  • Open Settings: Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  • Go to Apps: Click on "Apps" and then "Apps & features."
  • Find Microsoft Store: Scroll down the list and select "Microsoft Store."
  • Reset the App: Click on "Advanced options" and then "Reset." Confirm the action and restart your computer.

6. Re-register the Microsoft Store

Re-registering the Microsoft Store can resolve issues caused by corrupted system files. This process involves using PowerShell to reinstall the Store.

  • Open PowerShell as Administrator:
    • Press Windows + X and select "Windows PowerShell (Admin)" or "Command Prompt (Admin)."
  • Run Re-registration Command:
    • Type the following command and press Enter:
      Get-AppxPackage -allusers Microsoft.WindowsStore | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"}
  • Restart Your Computer: Once the command has executed, restart your computer and check if the Microsoft Store opens.

7. Update Windows

Running an outdated version of Windows can lead to compatibility issues with the Microsoft Store and apps. Ensure your system is up to date.

  • Check for Updates:
    • Open Settings (Windows + I), go to "Update & Security," and click "Check for updates."
  • Install Updates: If updates are available, download and install them. Restart your computer afterward.

8. Create a New User Account

Sometimes, the issue might be specific to your user profile. Creating a new user account can help determine if the problem is account-related.

  • Open Settings: Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  • Go to Accounts: Click on "Accounts" and then "Family & other users."
  • Add a New User: Click on "Add someone else to this PC" under the "Other users" section.
  • Switch to New Account: Log in to the new account and see if the Microsoft Store and apps work. If they do, your original account may be corrupted.

9. Reset or Repair Your System

If all else fails, you might need to consider a system reset or repair. This should be your last resort as it can be time-consuming and may result in the loss of installed applications.

  • Open Settings: Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  • Go to Update & Security: Click on "Update & Security" and then "Recovery."
  • Reset This PC: Under "Reset this PC," click "Get started" and choose to keep your files or remove everything, depending on your preference.
  • Follow On-Screen Instructions: Complete the reset process and reinstall any necessary apps.

Conclusion

Dealing with the Microsoft Store not opening and apps refusing to launch can be a hassle, but the above methods should help you get your system back on track. Whether it’s adjusting your date and time settings, clearing the cache, or resetting the Store app, there’s a solution for nearly every cause of this issue. If you’ve tried everything and the problem persists, you may need to consider more drastic measures, like creating a new user account or resetting your PC.

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