Best practices for clearing cache, updating, and re-registering Microsoft Store apps

The Microsoft Store is a key element in the Windows ecosystem, enabling users to discover, download, and manage applications seamlessly. However, users occasionally encounter issues with Store apps, such as failed downloads, apps not opening, or glitches with updates. These problems are often due to corrupt cache data, outdated configurations, or registration errors of store apps. Following best practices for clearing the cache, updating, and re-registering Microsoft Store apps can help restore functionality and improve performance.

TL;DR

If your Microsoft Store or its apps are not working properly, it’s often due to cache corruption, outdated versions, or registration conflicts. You can fix most issues by clearing the Store cache, ensuring all apps are updated, and re-registering apps using PowerShell commands. These actions improve performance and help avoid further issues. Each step is simple and safe when done correctly.

Understanding the Microsoft Store App Ecosystem

Before diving into troubleshooting, it’s important to understand how Microsoft Store apps work. Store apps are installed and managed differently from traditional desktop applications. They rely on specific Windows services and use a unique model for permissions and updates. Misconfigurations, corrupted files, or incomplete updates can affect both individual apps and the Store itself.

Best Practices for Clearing Microsoft Store Cache

Clearing the cache is often the first and most effective troubleshooting step. Cache files are used to store temporary app data and can become corrupted over time.

Procedure to Clear the Microsoft Store Cache

1. Press Windows + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type wsreset.exe and press Enter.
3. This will execute a command that clears the Store’s cache and automatically reopens the Microsoft Store window once done.

This step does not delete your apps or account settings. It simply removes temporary files that might be causing conflicts.

When and Why to Clear the Cache

• If the Microsoft Store does not launch.
• If apps fail to download or update.
• You experience slow load times or frequent crashes within the Store.

Updating Microsoft Store and Its Apps

Keeping the Microsoft Store and installed apps up to date ensures bug fixes, performance enhancements, and security patches are applied.

Steps to Update Microsoft Store and Apps

1. Open the Microsoft Store.
2. Click on the Library icon in the left sidebar.
3. Click Get updates at the top-right corner.
4. Wait while the Store scans and installs available updates.

Repeat this process periodically to keep everything running smoothly.

Enable Automatic Updates (Recommended)

To reduce manual effort, ensure that app updates are set to install automatically:

1. Open the Microsoft Store settings.
2. Find and toggle on the setting for App updates.

This ensures you’re always running the latest versions without having to manually check.

Re-registering Microsoft Store Apps Using PowerShell

Sometimes, apps can become deregistered or misconfigured, especially after major Windows updates. Re-registering an app reinstates its core files and default permissions.

Re-registering All Microsoft Store Apps

Use the following PowerShell command to re-register all Store apps:

Get-AppxPackage -AllUsers| Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"}

To execute this:

1. Right-click on the Start button and select Windows PowerShell (Admin).
2. Paste the command above and hit Enter.

This command does not delete user data, but may take a few minutes to complete and can generate warnings as system apps are affected.

Re-registering Only the Microsoft Store

If you want to limit this to only the Store application, use:

Get-AppxPackage *WindowsStore* | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"}

Additional Best Practices

• Run Windows Store Troubleshooter: Access this tool in Settings » Update & Security » Troubleshoot » Additional troubleshooters. It automates common fixes.
• Keep Windows Updated: Backup your system and check for available system updates regularly via Settings » Windows Update.
• Use a Local Account if Necessary: Some syncing issues between the Store and Microsoft accounts can cause troubles. Switching to a local account can help identify such problems.
• Check Date and Time: Incorrect system time can prevent apps from working correctly and accessing online licenses.

Common Errors and Solutions

Users often face these typical messages when having issues with Store apps:

• “Try that again. Something went wrong.” – Try clearing cache and checking your internet connection.
• App won’t launch: Re-register the app using PowerShell or reinstall it.
• “Pending” status: Indicates incomplete download or problems with Windows Update components. A reset or update can help.

Conclusion

Whether you are an everyday user or an IT professional managing Windows environments, maintaining the health of Microsoft Store and its apps is essential. Following the best practices of clearing cache, updating all apps regularly, and re-registering when necessary can significantly improve user experience, streamline performance, and reduce downtime.

By integrating these steps into routine maintenance or troubleshooting protocols, users can avoid more serious issues and keep their system running efficiently. While these procedures may not resolve every potential issue, they address the majority of common complications encountered within the Microsoft Store ecosystem.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Does clearing the Microsoft Store cache delete apps?

No, it only removes temporary files. Your apps and settings remain intact.

2. When should I re-register Microsoft Store apps?

If the Store or an app stops working, displays errors, or fails to open, re-registering can often resolve the issue.

3. Do I need to run these commands as an administrator?

Yes, re-registering apps using PowerShell requires administrator privileges.

4. What happens if I re-register all apps instead of just the Store?

Your system will refresh all Store apps’ installations. It doesn’t erase personal data but might reset certain app settings to default.

5. Are there any risks in using the PowerShell commands?

These commands are widely used for troubleshooting and are generally safe, but improper syntax or interruption could lead to errors. Always copy verified scripts and back up system data whenever possible.

6. Can I uninstall and reinstall the Microsoft Store?

While not easy through standard user options, it’s better to re-register the Store. Full uninstallation and reinstallation are possible via PowerShell but should be a last resort.