Ever tried to open the iTunes Store on Windows, only to be greeted by the mysterious error 0x80092013? Annoying, right? You just wanted to download some music or back up your iPhone, and now you’re stuck trying to be an IT wizard. But don’t worry—we’re going to fix it step-by-step, and it’s going to be way less scary than it sounds.
What’s This Error Anyway?
The error code 0x80092013 is an issue related to Internet connectivity or certificates. Basically, iTunes is looking for a secure connection to Apple’s servers, but something’s stopping it. Maybe a missing certificate or your system’s date and time are wrong. Yes, it really can be that simple.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fix the iTunes Error
Let’s break it down. Follow these easy steps and your iTunes Store should be back in action in no time.
1. Check the Date and Time
This might sound silly, but it’s super important. If your system clock is off, iTunes might think your certificates are outdated.
- Right-click the clock at the bottom-right corner.
- Select Adjust date/time.
- Make sure Set time automatically is turned ON.
- Restart your computer just to be sure.
2. Update Windows
Some old versions of Windows don’t play nicely with updated security certificates. New updates often fix these:
- Click the Start menu.
- Type Windows Update and hit Enter.
- Click Check for updates.
Install everything it finds. Then reboot your computer again.
3. Install the Latest Version of iTunes
It’s possible iTunes itself is the problem. Outdated software = outdated certificates.
- Go to the official iTunes site.
- Download the latest version for Windows.
- Install it over your current version (your library will stay safe).
4. Disable Your Antivirus Temporarily
Sometimes, overprotective antivirus programs block iTunes from reaching the Apple servers.
- Open your antivirus software.
- Find an option to disable protection temporarily.
- Try opening the iTunes Store again.
If it works, add iTunes as an exception and turn your antivirus back on.
5. Use the Microsoft Store Version of iTunes
Here’s something not many people know—there are two versions of iTunes for Windows. The one from the Microsoft Store sometimes behaves better than the one from Apple’s site.
- Uninstall your current version of iTunes.
- Open the Microsoft Store app.
- Search for iTunes and install it from there.
6. Run Windows Certificate Update (Yes, It’s a Thing)
There’s a neat little tool from Microsoft that updates root certificates manually.
- Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
- Type cmd and press Enter.
- In the Command Prompt, paste:
certutil -generateSSTFromWU roots.sst - This pulls the latest certificates from Windows Update.
Still with me? Great! You’re becoming an iTunes superhero.
7. Reset the Network Settings
If nothing else works, your PC’s network settings might be the issue.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to Network & Internet.
- Scroll down, click Network reset.
- Restart the PC afterward.
When to Call in the Pros
If you’ve tried all the steps and you’re still getting the error—don’t panic! It might be time to contact Apple Support or try iTunes on a different device. Sometimes the problem hides deep in system files.
Final Thoughts
Error 0x80092013 might seem like a boss-level bug, but with a little patience, you can squash it like a pro. The key is to take it one step at a time—and don’t skip the simple stuff like checking your clock!
Now go ahead and launch iTunes. Your music, movies, and backups are waiting. 🎶