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How to Fix Windows 11 Apps Not Installing Error 0x80080008: Step-by-Step Solutions

If you are facing the error code 0x80080008 while trying to install apps on Windows 11, you are not alone. This error usually occurs when the Windows Update or Microsoft Store services encounter problems. Fortunately, there are several simple ways to fix it.

This guide will walk you through easy and detailed steps to resolve the issue and get your apps installing smoothly again. You don’t need to be a tech expert to follow along.

By understanding why this error happens and applying the right solutions, you can enjoy a hassle-free app installation experience on your Windows 11 device.

Let’s begin with some quick checks before diving into the troubleshooting steps.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

Before trying complex fixes, please ensure the following:

  • Stable Internet Connection: A good internet connection is essential for downloading and installing apps.
  • Windows 11 is Updated: Sometimes, pending updates cause installation problems. Check for Windows updates by going to Settings > Windows Update.
  • Enough Storage Space: Verify that your device has enough free storage for new apps.
  • Microsoft Account Sign-In: Make sure you are signed in to the Microsoft Store with your Microsoft account.
  • Check Date and Time Settings: Incorrect date and time settings can cause installation errors. Confirm they are accurate.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, the simplest fix is just restarting your PC. This clears temporary glitches and refreshes system processes that might be blocking app installations.

To do this:

  1. Click the Start button.
  2. Select the Power icon.
  3. Click Restart.

After your PC restarts, try installing the app again to see if the error persists.

Step 2: Run the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes a built-in troubleshooter that automatically detects and fixes common Microsoft Store issues.

Here’s how to run it:

  1. Open Settings (press Windows + I keys).
  2. Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  3. Find Windows Store Apps in the list.
  4. Click Run next to it.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions and wait for the process to complete.

This tool can fix many errors automatically, including 0x80080008.

Step 3: Reset the Microsoft Store Cache

Corrupted cache files can cause installation errors. Resetting the Microsoft Store cache may fix this.

Follow these steps:

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type wsreset.exe and press Enter.
  3. A blank Command Prompt window will appear, and after a few moments, it will close automatically.
  4. The Microsoft Store will launch after the reset. Try installing your app again.

This process clears the cache without affecting your installed apps or settings.

Step 4: Check Windows Update Service and Related Services

The error 0x80080008 can sometimes result from issues with Windows Update services, which Microsoft Store relies on.

To check and restart these services:

  1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
  2. In the Services window, find the following services:
    • Windows Update
    • Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS)
    • Cryptographic Services
  3. Right-click each service one by one and select Restart. If they are not running, select Start.
  4. After restarting the services, close the window and try the installation again.

These services help with downloading and installing apps and updates securely.

Step 5: Re-register Microsoft Store Using PowerShell

If resetting the cache did not help, re-registering the Microsoft Store app can fix corrupted app registrations.

Here is how to do it:

  1. Type PowerShell in the Start menu search.
  2. Right-click on Windows PowerShell and select Run as administrator.
  3. Copy and paste the following command, then press Enter:
Get-AppxPackage -allusers Microsoft.WindowsStore | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)AppXManifest.xml"}

Wait for the command to complete. Then, restart your computer and try installing the app again.

Step 6: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM Tools

Corrupted system files can interfere with app installations. The System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tools scan and repair these files.

To run SFC:

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator (search for cmd, right-click, and choose Run as administrator).
  2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  3. Wait for the scan to finish. It may take some time.

If SFC finds and fixes issues, restart your PC and check if the problem is resolved.

If the problem remains, run DISM:

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator again.
  2. Type the following commands one by one and press Enter after each:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

These commands check and repair your system image. After completion, restart your PC and test the app installation.

Alternative Method: Create a New User Account

Sometimes, user profile corruption can cause installation errors. Creating a new user account can help isolate the problem.

To create a new account:

  1. Go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users.
  2. Click Add account under “Other users.”
  3. Choose I don’t have this person’s sign-in information, then select Add a user without a Microsoft account.
  4. Enter a username and password for the new account.
  5. Log out of your current account and log in to the new one.
  6. Try installing apps again to see if the error persists.

If the error does not occur in the new account, your previous user profile may be damaged.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does error code 0x80080008 mean?

This error indicates a problem with the Windows Update or Microsoft Store service, often due to corrupted files, service issues, or cache problems that prevent apps from installing.

Can antivirus software cause this error?

Yes, some antivirus or security software may block installations. Temporarily disabling your antivirus and trying again can help identify if it’s the cause.

Will resetting the Microsoft Store delete my installed apps?

No, resetting the Microsoft Store cache or re-registering it does not remove installed apps or your settings.

Is it safe to run PowerShell commands like re-registering the Store?

Yes, the commands provided are official and safe to run. They only fix the Microsoft Store app registration without harming your system.

What if the problem started after a Windows update?

Try uninstalling the recent update or wait for Microsoft to release a fix. You can also use System Restore to revert to an earlier point if available.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above solutions fix the error 0x80080008, you can try these final options:

  • Reset Windows 11: Use the “Reset this PC” feature in Settings to reinstall Windows without losing your files. This will fix system-level issues.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft support site for personalized help.
  • Use Windows Media Creation Tool: Reinstall Windows 11 using the Media Creation Tool, which can resolve deeper system problems.

These methods are more advanced and should be used as a last resort.

Conclusion

Error 0x80080008 can be frustrating, but by following the steps above in order, you can usually fix it yourself. Starting with simple restarts and troubleshooting tools, then moving to resetting caches and services, will cover most causes.

Remember to keep your Windows 11 system updated and maintain a stable internet connection. If the problem persists, advanced methods like re-registering the Store or creating new user accounts can help.

When all else fails, don’t hesitate to seek official Microsoft support or consider resetting your PC. With patience and careful troubleshooting, you can get your apps installing and running smoothly again.

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