How to Clear the Microsoft Store Cache in Windows 11

Why Clear the Microsoft Store Cache?

The Microsoft Store in Windows 11 relies on a local cache to load store pages faster, remember your preferences, and manage the temporary files required to download and install applications. However, if these cached files become corrupted or interrupted during a download, the Store can break entirely.

You should clear the Microsoft Store cache if you are experiencing the following problems:

• Apps are stuck in a “Pending” or “Downloading” state forever.
• The Microsoft Store crashes immediately upon opening.
• You receive cryptic error codes (such as 0x80072F8F) when trying to update software.
• The Store loads as a completely blank window.

Clearing the cache is a completely safe troubleshooting step. It will not delete your installed apps, nor will it remove your Microsoft account data; it simply flushes out the broken temporary files.

How to Clear the Microsoft Store Cache Using WSReset

Windows includes a dedicated, built-in command specifically designed to flush the Store cache. This tool is called wsreset.exe (Windows Store Reset).

1. Press the Windows Key + R to open the Run dialogue box.
2. Type wsreset.exe into the text field.
3. Press Enter or click OK.

A blank, black Command Prompt window will appear on your screen. Do not type anything into this window, and do not close it manually. The system is actively working in the background to delete the corrupted cache directories.

After approximately 10 to 30 seconds, the black window will close automatically, and the Microsoft Store application will launch itself. This indicates that the cache has been successfully cleared. You should now try downloading or updating your problematic apps again.

Alternative Method: Repairing the Store via Settings

If the wsreset command does not resolve your issue, the next best step is to use the Windows Settings app to repair the entire Microsoft Store application package.

1. Press the Windows Key + I to open Settings.
2. Navigate to Apps in the left-hand sidebar, then click on Installed apps.
3. Scroll down the list until you find the Microsoft Store.
4. Click the three-dot menu icon next to it and select Advanced options.
5. Scroll down to the “Reset” section.
6. Click the Repair button first. This will attempt to fix the app without deleting any local app data.

If the Repair function fails, you can click the Reset button located directly below it. Warning: The Reset function is more aggressive and will sign you out of the Microsoft Store, meaning you will need to re-enter your Microsoft account credentials the next time you open the app.

What if the Store is Still Broken?

If clearing the cache and resetting the app fails to fix your download errors, the problem might be tied to your underlying Windows Update service, as the Microsoft Store relies on the same background delivery mechanisms. In this case, ensure your Windows 11 operating system is fully updated, and consider restarting your computer to clear out any frozen background services.