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How to Fix Error 0x80073CF1 on Windows 11: Complete Steps to Solve the Issue

If you are encountering the error code 0x80073CF1 on your Windows 11 device, it can be frustrating and interrupt your work. This error often appears when you try to install or update apps from the Microsoft Store.

Fortunately, fixing this problem is usually straightforward. With some basic troubleshooting steps, you can get your apps working again.

This article will guide you through simple, clear instructions to resolve the error step-by-step. No advanced knowledge is needed.

Follow the steps carefully, and you should be able to fix the issue quickly.

Quick Note Before You Start

  • Make sure your Windows 11 is up to date. Sometimes, bugs causing this error are fixed in updates.
  • Check your internet connection. A poor connection can cause app installation failures.
  • Verify there is enough free disk space on your device.
  • Restart your PC before starting the troubleshooting. This can clear temporary glitches.

Step 1: Run the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter

Windows 11 has a built-in troubleshooter designed to find and fix issues with Microsoft Store apps.

  1. Click on the Start button and select Settings.
  2. Go to System and then click Troubleshoot.
  3. Choose Other troubleshooters.
  4. Find Windows Store Apps and click Run.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions. The troubleshooter will detect and fix common problems.

This step is important because it automatically checks for app-related issues without needing manual intervention.

Step 2: Reset the Microsoft Store Cache

Sometimes, the Store’s cache can become corrupted, leading to errors like 0x80073CF1. Resetting it clears stored data and refreshes the Store.

  1. Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type wsreset.exe and press Enter.
  3. A blank Command Prompt window will open, and after about 30 seconds, the Microsoft Store will launch automatically.

Resetting the cache helps resolve many common Store issues by removing temporary files that might cause conflicts.

Step 3: Repair or Reset the Problematic App

If the error occurs with a specific app, repairing or resetting that app can fix corrupted files.

  1. Open Settings and go to Apps > Installed apps.
  2. Find the app causing the error in the list.
  3. Click the three dots next to the app and select Advanced options.
  4. Scroll down and click Repair. Wait for the process to finish.
  5. If the issue persists, click Reset. This will delete app data but keep the app installed.

This approach targets the app directly, fixing any corrupted files or settings that might be triggering the error code.

Step 4: Check for Windows Updates

Keeping your system updated is crucial because Microsoft regularly releases fixes and improvements.

  1. Open Settings and select Windows Update.
  2. Click Check for updates.
  3. If updates are available, download and install them.
  4. Restart your PC once the updates are applied.

Installing the latest updates can often resolve bugs causing Store errors.

Step 5: Re-register Microsoft Store Using PowerShell

If the previous methods don’t work, re-registering the Microsoft Store can fix deeper system issues.

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Windows Terminal (Admin) or PowerShell (Admin).
  2. In the terminal window, copy and paste the following command, then press Enter:
Get-AppxPackage -allusers *WindowsStore* | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)AppXManifest.xml"}

This command reinstalls and re-registers the Microsoft Store app for all users, which can fix corrupted system files.

Alternative Method: Create a New User Account

Sometimes, user profile corruption causes the error. Creating a new user account helps determine if the problem is profile-specific.

  1. Open Settings and go to Accounts > Family & other users.
  2. Click Add account under Other users.
  3. Follow the prompts to create a local user account.
  4. Sign out and log in with the new account.
  5. Try installing or updating the app again.

If the error disappears, your original user profile may be corrupted.

FAQs

What causes error 0x80073CF1 on Windows 11?

This error usually occurs due to corrupted app files, problems with the Microsoft Store cache, or system file issues.

Is it safe to reset or repair apps?

Yes. Repairing fixes app files without affecting personal data. Resetting deletes app data but keeps the app installed.

Will reinstalling the Microsoft Store cause data loss?

No. Re-registering the Store only refreshes the app without deleting your data or installed apps.

Can a virus cause this error?

While rare, malware can corrupt system files. Running a full scan with Windows Defender or another antivirus is recommended.

Should I update Windows before troubleshooting?

Yes. Many issues are fixed in updates, so always check for and install updates first.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and still face error 0x80073CF1, consider the following options:

  • Run the SFC (System File Checker) and DISM tools to repair corrupted system files. You can do this by opening an Admin Command Prompt and running:
    sfc /scannow
    followed by
    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  • Contact Microsoft Support for personalized help: https://support.microsoft.com
  • Consider resetting Windows 11 as a last resort, but back up your data first.

Conclusion

Error 0x80073CF1 can interrupt your experience with Windows 11 apps, but it is usually fixable with simple steps. Starting with the troubleshooter and resetting the Store cache often solves the problem.

If needed, repairing apps, updating Windows, or re-registering the Store will fix deeper issues. Creating a new user profile can also help isolate the problem.

Remember to keep your system updated and maintain a stable internet connection to prevent future errors.

Follow this guide carefully, and you should be able to resolve the error 0x80073CF1 without hassle.

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