Fix Stuck Downloads in Windows Store - Troubleshooting Guide

Troubleshooting Stuck Windows Store Updates and Installs

The Windows Store, while improved since its initial release with Windows 8, can still experience occasional glitches. A common frustration for users is when an application update or installation process becomes stalled. This article details methods to resolve such issues.

Preliminary Checks

Before attempting more complex solutions, several basic checks can often resolve the problem. Addressing these potential conflicts can streamline the troubleshooting process.

• System Clock Accuracy: Ensure your computer's date, time, and time zone are correctly configured. The Windows Store relies on accurate time synchronization, particularly when interacting with apps across multiple Windows devices.
• Antivirus Interference: In rare instances, third-party antivirus software can impede app updates. Temporarily disabling your antivirus program can help determine if it's the source of the issue.
• Firewall Restrictions: Third-party firewall applications may block the Windows Store's communication attempts. While Windows Firewall includes a pre-configured exception, you may need to manually create one within your third-party firewall software.

If these initial steps do not resolve the problem, more advanced troubleshooting is necessary. Proceed to the following sections for more comprehensive solutions.

Advanced Troubleshooting Steps

When basic checks fail, employing more robust procedures is required to address the stuck update or installation. It is recommended to create a system restore point before proceeding, as a precautionary measure.

Although these procedures are generally safe, having a recent system restore point allows for easy reversion if unforeseen issues arise. Backing up your computer provides an additional layer of security.

Related: What's the Best Way to Back Up My Computer?

These steps should help to get your Windows Store functioning correctly again, allowing you to download and update your applications without interruption.

Resolving Windows Store Issues by Clearing the Cache via Command Prompt

A built-in tool within Windows allows users to flush the local cache of the Windows Store directly from the Command Prompt interface. Accessing the Command Prompt requires administrative rights. To initiate this, right-click on the Start menu – or utilize the Windows+X key combination – and select "Command Prompt (Admin)".

Confirm the User Account Control prompt by clicking "Yes" to grant the necessary administrative permissions.

Executing the Cache Reset Command

Once the Command Prompt window is open, input the following command and press Enter to begin the cache clearing process:

wsreset.exe

This command initiates a reset of the Windows Store cache.

The process typically takes approximately 30 seconds to complete. Following this, the Windows Store application will launch automatically.

After the Store window appears, it’s recommended to verify if any pending updates can now be successfully downloaded and installed. This action often resolves issues related to stuck downloads or general Store malfunctions.

Resolving Windows Store Issues with the Dedicated Troubleshooter

Should clearing the cache prove ineffective, utilizing the Windows Store Apps troubleshooter is a recommended next step. Windows incorporates a suite of integrated troubleshooting tools designed to detect and resolve a variety of system issues.

While not natively included within Windows, the Windows Store Apps troubleshooter is freely available for download directly from Microsoft. Ensure you select the version compatible with your operating system – either Windows 10 or Windows 8.

Running the Troubleshooter

Once the troubleshooter file has been downloaded, initiate its execution by double-clicking the file. Within the Windows Store Apps troubleshooter interface, click "Next" to begin the automated scan for potential problems.

The troubleshooter will proceed through its diagnostic process and subsequently inform you of its findings, indicating whether it was able to identify and rectify the issue. Frequently, this tool successfully resolves problems causing stalled updates.

Attempt to reopen the Windows Store and retry the app update process. Even if the troubleshooter reports an inability to pinpoint the problem, the preceding actions – such as service restarts and cache clearing – may have already resolved the underlying cause.

Considering the Windows Update Troubleshooter

If the Windows Store Apps troubleshooter fails to deliver a solution, exploring alternative troubleshooting options is advisable. Occasionally, a stalled application can be attributed to complications within Windows Update itself.

Therefore, running the Windows Update Troubleshooter concurrently is a worthwhile endeavor. This process is relatively quick and may prove beneficial in resolving the issue.

Re-Registering the Windows Store via PowerShell

When troubleshooting issues with the Windows Store, a complete re-registration can often resolve problems, effectively mimicking a reinstallation. This process is accomplished using PowerShell, a robust scripting environment integrated within Windows. While differing from the traditional Command Prompt, its operation is relatively straightforward.

Further Reading: Understanding the Differences Between PowerShell and the Windows Command Prompt

Administrative privileges are required to execute these steps. Initiate PowerShell by clicking the Start button, typing "powershell," and then selecting "Run as administrator" from the search results. Confirm the User Account Control prompt by clicking Yes.