Microsoft recently unveiled an intriguing solution to a recurring annoyance for Windows 10 users—specifically, the pesky 0x80073CFA error that kills the joy of updating or uninstalling certain apps. This frustration has been particularly relevant for users dealing with popular packaged applications like Microsoft Teams. For those who prefer not to install the latest preview update, let’s break down the details of this solution and what it entails.
Recognizing the disruption this caused, Microsoft pulled version 1.6.2 from circulation to prevent further impact on Windows 10 users. But that wasn't enough; they also rolled out the KB5046714 preview update which addresses this issue while offering an alternative method for those wary of installing optional updates.
This might feel unnecessary (and quite bizarre), but Microsoft assures us that this repetitive action is necessary to rectify the bugs lingering in the system. Here’s a simple guideline on how to check if your machine is affected and take the necessary steps:
If the command returns a result, your device is indeed impacted, and you're on the path to adopting this multi-installation remedy.
Such repeated missteps raise critical questions about the rollout processes of updates and bug fixes. Should there be stricter quality controls before major deployments? And how can users ensure the stability of their systems with these unforeseen errors?
For those plowing through these updates and fixes, patience is key. So grab a cup of coffee, follow these steps, and hopefully, you’ll emerge unscathed on the other side of this app management dilemma. And remember: if something’s broken, sometimes the best course of action is to try, try, try again!
Source: BleepingComputer New Windows 10 0x80073CFA fix requires installing WinAppSDK 3 times
The Root of the Problem
As noted in Microsoft’s announcement, the 0x80073CFA error stems from the installation of the earlier WinAppSDK version 1.6.2. This version introduced a bug that tumbled down the hill of app management, leading to error messages like “Something happened on our end” in the Microsoft Store and the ominous 0x80073CFA error popping up when IT admins tried to manage apps through PowerShell.What Spurred This Fix?
According to Roy MacLachlan, a product manager at Microsoft, the company’s analysis pointed to the servicing update for WinAppSDK 1.6.2 as the culprit. It was identified that the new deployment stack processing issues tangled the operations of both app updates and uninstalls.Recognizing the disruption this caused, Microsoft pulled version 1.6.2 from circulation to prevent further impact on Windows 10 users. But that wasn't enough; they also rolled out the KB5046714 preview update which addresses this issue while offering an alternative method for those wary of installing optional updates.
The Unexpected Solution: Triple Installation
Here’s where it gets a bit quirky. Instead of simply updating to a new version, users are encouraged to uninstall the troublesome version and install the new WinAppSDK 1.6.3 three times in succession. Yes, you read that right—three times!This might feel unnecessary (and quite bizarre), but Microsoft assures us that this repetitive action is necessary to rectify the bugs lingering in the system. Here’s a simple guideline on how to check if your machine is affected and take the necessary steps:
How to Check if You’re Affected
To determine whether your Windows 10 system is juggling the faulty WinAppSDK version, run the following command in PowerShell:
Code:
Get-AppxPackage *WindowsAppRuntime.1.6* -AllUsers | Where { $_.Version -eq '6000.311.13.0' }Steps to Install WinAppSDK 1.6.3
- Uninstall WinAppSDK 1.6.2: Navigate to the Add or Remove Programs settings and remove the offending application.
- Download WinAppSDK 1.6.3: Head over to the official Microsoft site and download the latest WinAppSDK version.
- Install it Thrice: Run the installation three times consecutively. While tedious, it’s worth it to restore normal functionality.
- Verify App Management: After the three installations, check if the previously affected apps can now be updated or uninstalled without a hitch.
Looking Ahead
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time Microsoft has faced backlash over app updates. Earlier this month, the company had to retract the November Exchange security updates due to critical failures. Moreover, there was also an incident with the Windows 11 24H2 update, where users faced issues with certain games and peripherals.Such repeated missteps raise critical questions about the rollout processes of updates and bug fixes. Should there be stricter quality controls before major deployments? And how can users ensure the stability of their systems with these unforeseen errors?
A Final Word
As we navigate the intricate world of Windows updates, knowledge is power. Understanding the implications of each package and the mechanisms behind these errors not only empowers users but also helps streamline troubleshooting in the face of complex issues like the dreaded 0x80073CFA.For those plowing through these updates and fixes, patience is key. So grab a cup of coffee, follow these steps, and hopefully, you’ll emerge unscathed on the other side of this app management dilemma. And remember: if something’s broken, sometimes the best course of action is to try, try, try again!
Source: BleepingComputer New Windows 10 0x80073CFA fix requires installing WinAppSDK 3 times