Fixing Microsoft Store Stuck on Updating: Complete Troubleshooting Guide

When the Microsoft Store appears to be stuck on the "Updating Microsoft Store… Working…" screen, it can be incredibly frustrating. Windows 10 and Windows 11 users have sometimes encountered this issue, which stops you from installing or updating apps. Fortunately, as detailed by Windows experts, a series of troubleshooting steps can help you get things back on track. Below is an in-depth look at the potential fixes and the reasoning behind them, along with real-world tips to help you navigate the process.

1. A Quick Restart and Windows Update Check​

Sometimes, the simplest solution is the most effective one. A minor glitch can cause the Microsoft Store to freeze in its update loop, and rebooting your PC may clear out the temporary issues.

• Restart Your PC:
  A full restart helps reset any minor glitches that might be affecting the Store app.
• Check for Windows Updates:
  After restarting, head over to the Windows Update settings. Installing any pending updates can resolve system-level conflicts that might be causing the problem.
• Verify Internet Connectivity:
  An unstable internet connection might be behind the stuck update. Try connecting via an ethernet cable or switching networks. If you're using WiFi, power cycling your router could also help.

A simple restart paired with these checks is often the first step to try before moving on to more advanced solutions.

2. Resetting the Microsoft Store Using wsreset.exe​

If a reboot doesn’t solve the issue, resetting the Microsoft Store itself is a tried-and-true method. The wsreset.exe command clears the Store’s cache and often resolves many glitches.

• How to Execute the Reset:
  1. Close the Microsoft Store if it’s open.
  2. Open the Command Prompt (run as administrator if possible).
  3. Type in "wsreset.exe" and hit Enter.
  4. Once the command finishes, the Store should automatically restart.

This approach essentially clears out the error state by removing any corrupted cache files, allowing the Store to attempt a fresh update.

3. Verifying the Microsoft Store Install Service​

The Microsoft Store relies on the Microsoft Store Install Service for its operations, such as installing or updating apps. If this service is disabled or has stopped running, you’ll run into issues.

• Steps to Check the Service:
  1. Open the Windows Service Manager (you can search for "services.msc" in the Start menu).
  2. Locate the "Microsoft Store Install Service" in the list.
  3. Check its status:
     • If it’s stopped, right-click on it and select "Start".
     • If it’s already running, try right-clicking and selecting "Restart".

Ensuring that the service is functioning correctly can be critical, as it underpins the entire mechanism that keeps the Store updated and ready to install applications.

4. Resetting Your Network Settings​

Network issues don't just affect your browsing—they can also impact app updates. Resetting your network components can help if your internet connection is unstable or misconfigured.

• Network Reset Procedure:
  1. Open the Settings app and navigate to the Network & Internet section.
  2. Look for the "Network Reset" option (note that this might cause your PC to restart).
  3. Follow the instructions to reinstall your network adapters and reset network configurations to default settings.

This process addresses these hidden snags by reverting network settings to a known good state. Before you start, remember to save any work since your PC will reboot during this reset.

5. Creating a New User Account for Troubleshooting​

Sometimes, the problem might be isolated to a specific user profile. If issues persist after trying previous fixes, consider creating a new user account. This step can help determine if your profile is corrupt or misconfigured.

• How to Create a New User Account:
  1. Go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users in Windows 11 (or the equivalent in Windows 10).
  2. Create a new local account (you can convert it to a Microsoft account later if needed).
  3. Log into the new account and check if the Microsoft Store launches normally.

If the Store functions correctly in the new account, you may want to transfer your documents and settings to the new account and, eventually, delete the old profile.

6. Restoring or Resetting Your PC as a Last Resort​

When all else fails, restoring or resetting your PC could be the final step to resolving the persistent update glitch.

• System Restore:
  Utilize System Restore to revert your system back to a time when the Microsoft Store was working properly. This is ideal if you have a restore point from before the issue began.
• Reset Your PC:
  Another option is to perform a PC reset. During the reset process, select "Keep my files" to preserve your data. This option reinstalls Windows while removing installed apps and settings, which can eliminate the problematic configuration or corrupted files causing the issue.

Restoring or resetting your system is a more drastic measure, but it often resolves deeply rooted system issues when less invasive methods haven’t provided relief.

7. Additional Considerations and Tips​

Beyond the core fixes mentioned, there are several other tweaks and checks you can perform to ensure a smooth experience with the Microsoft Store:

• VPNs and Proxy Settings:
  If you’re running a VPN or using a proxy connection, disconnect them temporarily. Such tools can sometimes interfere with the Microsoft Store’s connectivity.
• Date and Time Settings:
  Incorrect system date and time can hinder secure connections required for updating and app installations. Verify that your system clock is accurate for seamless service.
• Repairing System Image Files:
  If the Microsoft Store is stuck on a "getting ready" screen, it could indicate corrupted system image files. Running system file checker tools (such as SFC and DISM) may help repair these files and restore proper functionality.
• Power Cycling Your Router:
  When network connectivity is suspect, a simple power cycle of your router could resolve intermittent issues affecting the Microsoft Store.

Each of these additional steps targets specific issues that can contribute to the problem, offering you alternative paths to troubleshoot and resolve the error.

Concluding Thoughts​

Troubleshooting a Microsoft Store that is stuck on updating can be a multi-step process, but each method has its own merit. Whether it’s a simple restart or a complete system reset, these approaches help ensure that your Windows experience remains smooth and uninterrupted. By addressing potential issues one by one—from the Microsoft Store’s cache to its dependent services and network settings—you are more likely to isolate the problem source and implement a lasting fix.
Remember, starting with the simplest solution often saves time and fuss. Check your Windows Update, reset the Microsoft Store, verify the related services, and then work your way through network resets or even creating an alternative user account if necessary. These steps not only resolve the immediate issue but can also improve the overall stability of your system.
As technology evolves and Windows continues to update its components, occasional hiccups like these are to be expected. However, armed with the right troubleshooting toolkit and a bit of detective work, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle similar issues in the future.
Keep exploring, stay updated on the latest Windows fixes, and don’t hesitate to experiment with multiple solutions. After all, a well-maintained operating system is key to a productive and secure computing experience.

---

Source: The Windows Club Microsoft Store stuck on Updating Microsoft Store ... Working