How to Reinstall Microsoft Store on Windows 11?
The Microsoft Store is an essential part of the Windows 11 ecosystem, allowing users to download apps, games, and updates safely. However, there are times when the Store stops working properly. You might face issues like the Store not opening, apps failing to download, or constant crashes.
In such cases, reinstalling the Microsoft Store can be one of the most effective solutions, but reinstalling the Microsoft Store is not as straightforward as uninstalling a regular app. The process involves resetting the Store, removing its package, and then reinstalling it using system commands.
Note: Before starting, make sure your system is updated, and you are logged in with an administrator account. This ensures that all commands run smoothly without permission errors.
Now, let’s proceed to reinstall the Microsoft Store without any confusion.
How to Reinstall Microsoft Store on Windows 11? Step-By-Step Guide
To reinstall the Microsoft Store on Windows 11, open Windows PowerShell as an administrator and use a command to remove and reinstall the Store app package. This process restores the Store to its default state and fixes most issues related to crashes, missing apps, or installation errors.
Let’s explore in detail!
Step 1: Check if Resetting the Microsoft Store Solves the Problem
Before jumping into reinstallation, it is always recommended to try a simple reset. Many Store-related issues can be fixed without removing the app entirely.
Open the Settings app on your Windows 11 computer. Navigate to Apps and then Installed Apps. Scroll down until you find Microsoft Store. Click on it and select Advanced options.
In the Advanced options section, you will see two buttons called Repair and Reset. First, click on Repair and wait for the process to complete. If the issue persists, click on Reset. This will clear the app’s data and restore it to its default state.
Once done, restart your computer and check if the Store works properly. If it still does not function, proceed to the next step.
Step 2: Open Windows PowerShell with Administrator Rights
To reinstall the Microsoft Store, you will need to use Windows PowerShell. This is a powerful command-line tool that allows you to manage system apps and settings.
Click on the Start menu and type PowerShell in the search bar. From the results, right-click on Windows PowerShell and select Run as administrator. A User Account Control prompt may appear asking for permission. Click Yes to continue.
Once PowerShell opens, you will see a blue window with a command prompt. This is where you will enter the commands needed to remove and reinstall the Microsoft Store.
Make sure you do not close this window until the entire process is complete.
Step 3: Remove the Existing Microsoft Store Package
Now that PowerShell is open with administrative privileges, the next step is to remove the existing Microsoft Store package from your system.
In the PowerShell window, type the command that retrieves all installed app packages and filters out the Microsoft Store. Then use a removal command to uninstall it.
After entering the command, press Enter and wait for the process to complete. It may take a few seconds to a minute, depending on your system performance.
You may not see a confirmation message, but if there are no errors, the Store has been successfully removed from your system.
Do not worry if the Microsoft Store icon disappears. This is expected behavior since the app has been uninstalled.
Step 4: Reinstall Microsoft Store Using PowerShell
Once the Microsoft Store has been removed, the next step is to reinstall it.
In the same PowerShell window, enter the command that reinstalls all default apps, including the Microsoft Store. This command uses the system’s app manifest files to restore built-in applications.
Press Enter after typing the command and allow the process to run. This step may take a few minutes as Windows reinstalls multiple system apps.
During this process, you might see some red error messages. These are usually harmless and can be ignored as long as the Microsoft Store is successfully reinstalled.
After the command finishes executing, close the PowerShell window.
Step 5: Restart Your Computer
Restarting your computer is an important step after reinstalling system apps.
Click on the Start menu, select the Power icon, and choose Restart. This ensures that all changes made during the reinstallation process are properly applied.
When your system boots up again, check the Start menu or search for Microsoft Store. You should see the app restored.
Step 6: Open Microsoft Store and Sign In
After restarting your computer, open the Microsoft Store to verify that it is working correctly.
Click on the Start menu and search for Microsoft Store. Open the app and wait for it to load. If prompted, sign in with your Microsoft account.
Once signed in, try downloading a small app or update to ensure everything is functioning properly.
If the Store opens without errors and downloads apps successfully, the reinstallation process has been completed successfully.
Step 7: Update Windows to Avoid Future Issues
After reinstalling the Microsoft Store, it is a good idea to update your system.
Open Settings and go to Windows Update. Click on Check for updates and install any available updates.
Keeping your system updated helps prevent issues with system apps like the Microsoft Store and ensures better performance and security.
FAQs
Why is my Microsoft Store missing in Windows 11?
The Microsoft Store may be missing due to system corruption, accidental removal, or issues during a Windows update. Reinstalling it using PowerShell usually resolves the problem.
Is it safe to reinstall the Microsoft Store?
Yes, it is completely safe. The Microsoft Store is a built-in system app, and reinstalling it simply restores its original configuration.
Do I need an internet connection to reinstall the Microsoft Store?
Yes, an internet connection is recommended, especially during the reinstallation process and when updating apps afterward.
What should I do if PowerShell shows errors?
Some errors in PowerShell are normal during this process. If the Microsoft Store appears and works after restarting your system, you can safely ignore those errors.
Can I uninstall the Microsoft Store like a regular app?
No, the Microsoft Store cannot be uninstalled through normal methods. You must use PowerShell commands to remove and reinstall it.
Will reinstalling the Microsoft Store delete my apps?
No, reinstalling the Microsoft Store does not remove apps that are already installed on your system. It only resets the Store itself.