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How to Fix Microsoft Store Not Enough Space Error on Windows 11: Complete Troubleshooting Steps

If you are trying to download or update an app from the Microsoft Store on Windows 11 and receive a “Not Enough Space” error, it can be quite frustrating. This problem usually means your device doesn’t have enough free storage to complete the installation. However, sometimes the error occurs even when there seems to be enough space available.

Fortunately, there are several simple steps you can take to fix this issue. These troubleshooting methods will guide you through checking your storage, clearing unnecessary files, and adjusting settings to help the Microsoft Store work correctly.

This article will walk you through each step in detail, making it easy to follow even if you are not very familiar with Windows 11. Let’s get started on resolving the “Not Enough Space” error.

By the end, you should be able to download and update apps smoothly from the Microsoft Store again.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

Before you start troubleshooting, it’s important to make sure of a few things:

  • Check your available storage: Open Settings > System > Storage to see how much free space you have. The Microsoft Store needs enough space not only for the app but also for temporary files during installation.
  • Restart your PC: Sometimes, a simple restart can fix temporary glitches causing the error.
  • Check your internet connection: A stable connection is necessary for downloading apps properly.
  • Make sure Windows 11 is up to date: Outdated system files can interfere with the Microsoft Store functionality.

If these quick checks look fine and the problem persists, follow the detailed steps below.

Step 1: Free Up Disk Space

The most common reason for the “Not Enough Space” error is insufficient storage. Even if your system shows some free space, it might not be enough for the app plus temporary files needed during installation.

Here’s how to free up space safely:

  1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
  2. Go to System > Storage.
  3. Look under Storage Breakdown to see what is taking up space.
  4. Click on Temporary files and select the files you want to delete, such as system cache, recycle bin items, and previous Windows installations.
  5. Click Remove files to clear them.

Clearing temporary files is important because they can accumulate over time and take up a lot of space without you realizing it.

Step 2: Change Microsoft Store Download Location

Sometimes the default download drive (usually C:) may not have enough space even if other drives do. Changing the Microsoft Store download location to a drive with more free space can help.

Follow these steps:

  1. Open Settings (Windows + I).
  2. Go to System > Storage.
  3. Scroll down and click Advanced storage settings.
  4. Select Where new content is saved.
  5. Under New apps will save to, choose a drive with enough space from the dropdown menu.
  6. Click Apply.

Now, when you download apps from the Microsoft Store, they will be saved to the selected drive, potentially avoiding the space error.

Step 3: Reset the Microsoft Store Cache

The Microsoft Store cache can sometimes get corrupted and cause errors like “Not Enough Space.” Resetting the cache clears temporary files and forces the Store to reload fresh data.

To reset the Microsoft Store cache:

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type wsreset.exe and press Enter.
  3. A blank Command Prompt window will appear for a few seconds. Wait until it closes automatically, and the Microsoft Store will open.

This process does not delete your installed apps or settings, only the cache.

Step 4: Run the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes a built-in troubleshooter that can detect and fix common problems with Microsoft Store apps.

Here’s how to run it:

  1. Open Settings (Windows + I).
  2. Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  3. Find Windows Store Apps and click Run.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to detect and fix any issues.

The troubleshooter can automatically repair corrupted files or reset problematic components related to the Microsoft Store.

Step 5: Check Storage Sense Settings

Windows 11 has a feature called Storage Sense that automatically frees up space by deleting unnecessary files. If it’s not configured properly, it might not clear enough space for app installations.

To adjust Storage Sense:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Navigate to System > Storage > Storage Sense.
  3. Turn on Storage Sense if it’s off.
  4. Click on Storage Sense to customize when it runs and what files it removes.
  5. Set it to run during low free space and enable cleanup of temporary files.

Proper Storage Sense settings help keep your disk space optimized automatically.

Alternative Methods and Advanced Options

If the above steps don’t work, you can try these more advanced solutions:

  • Re-register Microsoft Store: Open PowerShell as administrator and run this command:
    Get-AppxPackage -allusers *WindowsStore* | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)AppXManifest.xml"}
    This reinstalls and re-registers the Microsoft Store app.
  • Create more free space by uninstalling unused apps: Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps and remove apps you no longer need.
  • Move existing apps or files to another drive: This can free up space on the system drive.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Why does Microsoft Store say “Not Enough Space” even when I have enough storage?

A: The error can occur due to corrupted cache, incorrect download locations, or issues with temporary files. Sometimes, the system reserves space for installation that is not reflected in the free space shown.

Q: Will resetting the Microsoft Store delete my apps?

A: No, resetting the Store cache using wsreset.exe only clears temporary files. Your installed apps and data remain safe.

Q: Can I change the download location for existing apps?

A: No, changing the download location only affects new app installations. However, you can move some apps to another drive via Settings > Apps > Installed apps by selecting the app and clicking “Move” if the option is available.

Q: How do I know which files are safe to delete when freeing up space?

A: Temporary files, system cache, recycle bin contents, and old Windows update files are generally safe to delete. Avoid deleting system files or personal documents unless you are sure.

Q: What if none of the troubleshooting steps work?

A: You can try resetting your PC or contacting Microsoft Support for further assistance. Sometimes, deeper system issues require professional help.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and still face the “Not Enough Space” error, consider these final options:

  • Reset or Refresh Windows 11: This will reinstall Windows without affecting your personal files but can fix system problems. Go to Settings > System > Recovery > Reset this PC.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit Microsoft Support for expert help.
  • Use third-party disk cleanup tools: Tools like CCleaner can help clear junk files, but use them carefully and download only from trusted sources.

Conclusion

The “Not Enough Space” error in the Microsoft Store on Windows 11 is usually related to storage issues or corrupted files. By following the steps above—from freeing up space and changing download locations to resetting the Store cache and running troubleshooters—you can resolve most problems easily.

Remember to maintain adequate free disk space and keep your system updated for smooth Microsoft Store operations. If all else fails, advanced options and official support are available to help you get back to downloading your favorite apps without hassle.

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