Blog

How to Fix Error 0x80073cfe on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions That Work

If you are using Windows 11 and encounter the error code 0x80073cfe, it can disrupt your experience by preventing apps from installing or updating properly.

This error usually relates to problems within the Microsoft Store or system files that affect app management.

Fortunately, there are several straightforward solutions you can try to fix this issue and get your apps working again.

In this guide, we will walk you through easy and effective steps to resolve error 0x80073cfe.

Quick Note Before You Begin

Before diving into the troubleshooting, make sure you have the following ready:

  • A stable internet connection, as many fixes require online access.
  • Administrative access to your Windows 11 PC to perform system changes.
  • Check that your Windows 11 is up to date by going to Settings > Windows Update. Sometimes, updates fix underlying issues.
  • Close any running apps or downloads from Microsoft Store to avoid conflicts during troubleshooting.

Step 1: Restart Your PC

Sometimes, a simple restart can clear temporary glitches causing the error. It refreshes system processes related to app management.

  1. Click the Start button.
  2. Select the Power icon.
  3. Choose Restart and wait for your PC to reboot.

After restarting, try installing or updating the app again to see if the error persists.

Step 2: Run the Microsoft Store Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes a built-in troubleshooter designed to detect and fix problems with the Microsoft Store and apps.

  1. Open Settings by pressing Win + I.
  2. Navigate to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  3. Find Windows Store Apps and click Run.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions. The troubleshooter will attempt to identify and fix issues automatically.

This step is important because it can resolve common Store-related problems without requiring manual intervention.

Step 3: Reset the Microsoft Store Cache

Corrupted cache files can cause error 0x80073cfe. Resetting the cache clears these temporary files, which often resolves the problem.

  1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type wsreset.exe and press Enter.
  3. A blank Command Prompt window will open, and after a few moments, the Microsoft Store will launch automatically.

Try to install or update the app again after the cache reset.

Step 4: Check and Repair System Files

Damaged system files can interfere with app installation and updates. Using built-in tools like SFC and DISM can scan and fix these files.

Run System File Checker (SFC)

  1. Click Start, type cmd, right-click on Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow

This will scan your system files and automatically repair corrupted files. This process might take some time, so please be patient.

Run Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM)

  1. In the same elevated Command Prompt window, type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

These commands check the Windows image for corruption and attempt repairs if needed.

Once completed, restart your PC and try using the Microsoft Store again.

Step 5: Reinstall the Microsoft Store

If the Microsoft Store app itself is corrupted, reinstalling it can fix error 0x80073cfe.

  1. Open Windows Terminal or PowerShell as administrator.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
Get-AppxPackage -allusers *WindowsStore* | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)AppXManifest.xml"}

This command reinstalls and re-registers the Microsoft Store for all users.

After this process finishes, restart your computer and check if the issue is resolved.

Alternative Method: Create a New User Account

Sometimes, user profile corruption causes app errors. Creating a new user account can help isolate this problem.

  1. Go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users.
  2. Click Add account under Other users.
  3. Follow the prompts to create a local or Microsoft account.
  4. Sign into the new account and try to install or update apps via Microsoft Store.

If the error does not occur on the new account, your original profile may be corrupted.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes error 0x80073cfe on Windows 11?

This error often occurs due to corrupted Microsoft Store cache, damaged system files, or issues with the Store app itself.

Is it safe to reset the Microsoft Store cache?

Yes, resetting the cache only removes temporary files and does not affect your installed apps or settings.

Will running SFC or DISM affect my files?

No, these tools scan and repair system files without deleting personal data.

Do I need internet access for these fixes?

Yes, some troubleshooting steps require internet access to download updates or verify system health.

Can antivirus software cause this error?

Sometimes, antivirus or firewall settings block Microsoft Store processes. Temporarily disabling them during troubleshooting can help identify if they are the cause.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above solutions resolve error 0x80073cfe, you may need to consider more advanced options:

  • Perform a System Restore: Restore your PC to a previous point when the Store was working.
  • Reset Windows 11: Use the reset option in Settings to reinstall Windows without deleting your files.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft support page for personalized assistance.

Always back up important data before performing major system changes.

Conclusion

Error 0x80073cfe on Windows 11 can be frustrating but is usually fixable with a few simple steps. Starting with a restart and running the built-in troubleshooter often resolves the issue quickly.

Resetting the Microsoft Store cache and repairing system files addresses more complex problems that cause app installation failures.

If needed, reinstalling the Store or creating a new user account can help fix persistent errors.

By following this step-by-step guide, you should be able to restore your Microsoft Store functionality and get back to installing and updating apps smoothly.

Leave a Reply