The Microsoft Store in Windows 11 and Windows 10 offers a convenient place to grab and automatically update apps, but it also tends to go wrong. If your store is throwing up “Store cache may be damaged” errors in the troubleshooter, you’ll need to perform a Microsoft Store reset or clear the Microsoft Store cache to resume.
What is the Microsoft Store cache?
The Microsoft Store cache contains various pieces of data you’ve accumulated during your usage. This could include log files, thumbnails you downloaded, temporary download files, and more.
Sometimes, the data in this cache gets corrupted or otherwise conflicts with your Microsoft Store app. The easiest way to fix this is by resetting the Microsoft Store, which will also clear the cache.
⚠️ Please note: The process described below is the same in Windows 11 as it is in Windows 10. However, bear in mind that we’ll be using screenshots from Windows 10, so your UI may look a little different. We’ll point out any changes you need to be aware of as they come up.
How to Clear the Microsoft Store Cache with WSReset.exe
A good way to perform Microsoft Store reset is via the WSReset tool. This blends user-friendliness with speed. We’ll then show you how to clear the Microsoft Store cache for third-party store apps using command prompt.
- Run WSReset.exe
Press Ctrl + R to open the Run dialog, then type “WSReset.exe” into the “Open:” field. Press “OK” when you’re done.
- Wait for the tool to do its work
A blank command prompt window will open. While it doesn’t look like it’s doing much, in reality, it’s resetting your store in the background. In about thirty seconds, it should
- Wait for the Store to open
If the reset is successful, the Microsoft Store should open as normal with no errors shortly afterwards. If you still get an error or nothing happens, continue to the next step.
- Open command prompt
Press Start and type “Command Prompt”. Click the first result.
- Run the ‘whoami’ command and copy your SID
Mark the string of numbers and letters underneath
In Command Prompt, typewhoami /userand press Enter. It should return an output starting withUSER INFORMATION.SIDand right-click it to copy it into the clipboard. Then paste it into a notepad file for future reference and close the window.
-
Open Regedit
Press Start and type “Registry Editor”. Click the top result.
- Find and delete the Windows 10 store cache for your user
In the Registry Editor address bar, paste the following or navigate using the folders on the left-hand side:Computer/HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Appx\AppxAllUserStore
Scroll down the list until you find the registry key that matches the SID you copied earlier. Right-click the folder and press “Delete”.
- Confirm key deletion
In the pop-up dialog box, press “Yes” to permanently delete the key.
How to Perform a Microsoft Store Reset via Settings
The most user-friendly way to clear the Windows Store Cache is via the Settings app. However, early versions of Windows 10 won’t have this option, so ensure you’re updated first.
- Open settings
Press Start, then the settings cog in the Start menu, above the power button.
- Click on ‘Apps’
- Open advanced options for the Microsoft Store
In the Settings side panel, click “Apps & features”. Scroll down the list until you see “Microsoft Store”. Click on it, and then press “Advanced options”.
- Reset the Microsoft Store
Wait for the process to complete, then try launching the Microsoft Store.
If neither of the above methods are working, you may want to re-register or reinstall the Microsoft Store by following this tutorial. Once you’ve got everything set up, you may want to turn off automatic updates for apps.
How to Fix the Microsoft Store with a Re-Register or Re-Install
The Microsoft Store for apps is useful, but also frustratingly buggy. Many users start their PC to find that their Microsoft Store is not working or opening. For others, the Windows Store is missing entirely. Often, the easiest way to fix this is the re-register the store, but if that fails, you may want to uninstall it entirely and perform a reinstall. In our other guide, we show you how to re-register it or uninstall it for good.
Extra: How to Access Microsoft Store App Folders in File Explorer
When you download an app from the Microsoft Store, you may not think about where it is stored on your PC. If you want to delete, you can just head to the Windows Settings app. However, for some users, having access to the Microsoft Store download location is important. Windows 11 and Windows 10 store Microsoft Store Apps like any other apps, except the file are hidden. In our other guide, we show you how to locate and access Windows Store Apps in File Explorer.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About the Microsoft Store
Can clearing the Microsoft Store cache resolve download issues?
Yes, clearing the cache of the Microsoft Store can eliminate data that might be causing interference with app downloads, updates, or installations. If you notice persistent problems related to downloading or updating apps, clearing the cache can be an effective first troubleshooting step to refresh the store’s data handling operations.
Will resetting the Microsoft Store delete my installed apps?
Resetting the Microsoft Store does not delete your installed apps. It only clears the temporary cache and sets the app back to its original settings. This process might log you out of the Store, requiring you to log in again, but all your apps should remain intact and unaffected directly by the reset.
What should I do if issues persist after resetting the Microsoft Store?
If the Microsoft Store continues to exhibit issues even after you’ve reset it, consider taking more comprehensive steps such as re-registering the Store using PowerShell commands or reinstalling the app entirely. These methods are useful for resolving deeper systemic issues that a simple reset cannot fix. Guides on re-registering or reinstalling can be found in our more detailed troubleshooting sections.
Is it safe to delete the Microsoft Store cache key from the Registry Editor?
Deleting the Microsoft Store cache key from the Registry Editor is generally safe if you strictly follow the steps and ensure you are deleting the correct key corresponding to your user SID. However, modifying the registry can have unintended consequences, so it’s advisable to back up the registry before making any changes, to safeguard against potential system instability.
How can I check if my Microsoft Store cache is corrupted?
Signs of a corrupted Microsoft Store cache include frequent crashes, error messages during app downloads or updates, and slower-than-usual Store performance. If you encounter these issues repeatedly, proceeding with a cache reset or clearing techniques as outlined in the tutorial can help restore normal functionality.
Can I access and modify Microsoft Store app files directly for troubleshooting?
Yes, you can access and modify files associated with Microsoft Store apps by navigating to the hidden WindowsApps folder in the Program Files directory. This direct access requires changing folder permissions and is recommended only for advanced users familiar with file management and system settings, as improper modifications can lead to app or system malfunctions.
What happens if I accidentally delete the wrong Registry key while clearing the cache?
Deleting the incorrect Registry key can lead to critical errors in your system. It’s important to double-check the key’s details before deletion. If a wrong key is deleted, restoring from a previously created registry backup or system restore point can help revert the changes and prevent system instability.
Does resetting the Microsoft Store affect my app settings and preferences?
A reset of the Microsoft Store clears cache and data that might reset some store settings to default values, affecting preferences like sign-in details or configuration choices made in the store. However, app-specific settings within your installed applications, managed under each app’s configuration, generally remain unaffected.
How often should I reset and clear the Microsoft Store cache?
Regular resetting of the Microsoft Store cache is not required unless you are frequently encountering issues that cannot be resolved through simpler troubleshooting steps. It’s optimal to perform a reset or cache clearing when you observe persistent problems that could indicate cache corruption.
Can clearing the Microsoft Store cache improve app performance?
Yes, clearing the cache can be beneficial for app performance. This removes temporarily stored files that might be outdated or corrupt, which can impede app function and overall store performance. By clearing the cache, the store and its apps can operate more fluidly, loading content and updates more reliably.
Do I need internet access to reset the Microsoft Store cache?
While resetting the cache per se might not require an internet connection, the Microsoft Store typically needs to reconnect to the internet afterward to refresh content and validate user details. Therefore, ensure your internet connection is active during and after the reset process to facilitate a smooth recovery of store functions.
What does ‘re-registering the Microsoft Store’ entail?
Re-registering the Microsoft Store involves running specific PowerShell commands that refresh the store’s registration status and system configuration. This process helps fix deeper integration issues between the Microsoft Store and the Windows operating system, aiding in resolving persistent errors not fixed by a simple reset.
Is there a way to automate the Microsoft Store reset for regular maintenance?
Automating the reset process for the Microsoft Store is generally not supported natively by Windows due to the potential risks and the necessity of user oversight. Manual intervention ensures safety and appropriateness of the reset actions, aligning with the specific issues and current system status.
How do I ensure all data is cleared when resetting the Microsoft Store?
For a thorough clearing, utilize both the WSReset.exe tool for clearing the cache and the reset option within the Microsoft Store settings for resetting app data. This combination ensures a comprehensive cleanup, tackling both superficial and deep-seated data remnants that could cause operational hitches.
Can user data or preferences be recovered after a Microsoft Store reset?
While a reset will clear cache and possibly log you out, most preferences linked to your Microsoft account should automatically restore upon re-login. However, local preferences or settings stored on the device may need to be manually reconfigured after a reset. Always ensure to have your account details handy for re-establishing any necessary connections and settings post-reset.
Last Updated on November 7, 2024 11:11 pm CET
