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The 0x87e00196 error on Windows 11 can be frustrating, especially when you’re trying to install or update apps. This error often appears during Microsoft Store transactions or app installations.

Fortunately, there are several straightforward ways to fix it without needing advanced technical skills. This guide will walk you through each step clearly and simply.

By following these solutions, you can resolve the error and get your apps working properly again. Let’s start with some quick checks before diving into fixes.

Read on to find easy and effective methods to troubleshoot the 0x87e00196 error on Windows 11.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

• Ensure you have a stable internet connection. Many Microsoft Store errors occur due to network interruptions.
• Check your Windows 11 version. Make sure it is updated to the latest build by going to Settings > Windows Update.
• Sign in with a valid Microsoft account. Sometimes, signing out and back into the Store helps refresh your credentials.
• Restart your computer. A simple reboot can clear temporary issues causing the error.

Step 1: Run the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes a built-in troubleshooter for Microsoft Store apps. It can detect and fix common problems automatically.

1. Click the Start button and open Settings.
2. Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
3. Find Windows Store Apps in the list and click Run.
4. Wait while Windows scans for problems and applies fixes.
5. Restart your PC after the process completes and try using the Store again.

This step is important because the troubleshooter can automatically resolve issues related to app licensing, corrupted cache, or service problems.

Step 2: Clear Microsoft Store Cache

Corrupted cache data can cause errors like 0x87e00196. Clearing the cache forces the Store to download fresh data.

1. Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type wsreset.exe and press Enter.
3. A blank Command Prompt window will open and close automatically after a few seconds.
4. The Microsoft Store will launch automatically when the cache is cleared.
5. Try installing or updating your app again.

Clearing cache is a simple but effective way to fix many Microsoft Store issues because it removes outdated or corrupted temporary files.

Step 3: Check Date and Time Settings

Incorrect date and time settings can cause security certificate errors, leading to the 0x87e00196 error.

1. Open Settings and go to Time & language > Date & time.
2. Make sure Set time automatically and Set time zone automatically are turned on.
3. If they are already on, toggle them off and on again to refresh settings.
4. Restart your computer and try the Microsoft Store again.

Accurate time settings are crucial because Microsoft Store relies on correct timestamps for security and licensing validation.

Step 4: Reset Microsoft Store App

If clearing the cache didn’t help, resetting the Store app will delete all its data and restore default settings.

1. Open Settings and navigate to Apps > Installed apps.
2. Scroll down to find Microsoft Store and click the three-dot menu next to it.
3. Select Advanced options.
4. Scroll down and click Reset. Confirm any prompts.
5. Once reset, open the Store and sign in again.

This method is more thorough than clearing cache and can fix deeper issues by reinstalling app components.

Step 5: Re-register Microsoft Store Using PowerShell

If the error persists, re-registering the Microsoft Store app through PowerShell can help fix corrupt app registrations.

1. Click Start, type PowerShell, right-click and select Run as administrator.
2. Copy and paste the following command, then press Enter:

Get-AppxPackage -allusers Microsoft.WindowsStore | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)AppXManifest.xml"}

3. Wait for the command to finish. Ignore any red error messages unless the process fails completely.
4. Restart your computer and test the Microsoft Store again.

This step repairs the Store app installation at a system level, which can resolve stubborn errors.

Alternative Method: Create a New User Account

Sometimes, user profile corruption causes this error. Creating a new Windows user account can help identify this problem.

1. Open Settings > Accounts > Family & other users.
2. Click Add account under Other users.
3. Follow the prompts to create a new local or Microsoft account.
4. Sign out of your current account and log into the new one.
5. Try accessing the Microsoft Store and installing apps again.

If the error disappears on the new account, your original profile might be corrupted and may require further repair or migration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does error code 0x87e00196 mean?

This error usually indicates a problem with app installation or update processes in the Microsoft Store. It can stem from corrupted cache, incorrect system settings, or app licensing issues.

Can antivirus software cause this error?

Yes, sometimes antivirus or firewall settings block the Store’s connection or app processes. Temporarily disabling antivirus and trying again can help identify if this is the cause.

Is it safe to reset the Microsoft Store app?

Yes, resetting only affects the Store app’s data and settings. It does not delete your installed apps or Windows files.

Do I need to be signed into a Microsoft account to use the Store?

Yes, signing in is usually required to download or update apps through the Microsoft Store.

Will updating Windows fix this error?

Often, yes. Microsoft regularly releases fixes for Store-related issues, so keeping Windows updated is important.

When Nothing Works

If you’ve tried all the above steps and still see the 0x87e00196 error, consider the following options:

• Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support website for personalized help.
• Perform a System Restore: Roll back your system to a previous working state using System Restore.
• Reset or Reinstall Windows: As a last resort, you can reset Windows 11 while keeping your files or perform a clean install.

Remember to back up your important files before taking any drastic measures.

Conclusion

The 0x87e00196 error on Windows 11 can be resolved through several simple steps, starting with basic troubleshooting like running the Store troubleshooter and clearing cache. Ensuring correct date and time, resetting the Store app, and re-registering it using PowerShell are effective next steps.

Creating a new user account can help diagnose profile-related issues, while keeping Windows updated and verifying your internet connection are always good practices.

By following this guide, you can fix the error and enjoy seamless app installations and updates on your Windows 11 device.