Sea of Thieves is a popular pirate adventure game enjoyed by many on Windows 11. Sometimes, players face issues when updating the game, which can interrupt their gaming experience. Fortunately, most update problems have simple fixes that anyone can try.
This guide will walk you through easy, step-by-step solutions to fix Sea of Thieves update issues on Windows 11. Each step is explained clearly so even beginners can follow along without confusion.
Whether the update is stuck, not downloading, or showing errors, these solutions will help get your game back on track. Let’s start with some quick checks before diving into the fixes.
By following this guide, you’ll save time and avoid frustration, getting back to your pirate adventures in no time.
Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks
Before trying any fixes, make sure of the following:
- Stable Internet Connection: Updates require a steady internet connection. A slow or unstable network can cause failures.
- Enough Disk Space: Ensure you have enough free space on your drive to download and install the update.
- Windows Updates: Keep Windows 11 itself updated. System updates can improve compatibility and fix bugs.
- Xbox App / Microsoft Store: Sea of Thieves updates through the Microsoft Store or Xbox app. Confirm these apps are working properly.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer and Network Devices
Restarting your PC and router is a simple but effective first step. It clears temporary glitches and refreshes your network connection.
- Save your work and close all programs.
- Restart your computer by clicking the Start menu > Power > Restart.
- Unplug your router or modem, wait 30 seconds, then plug it back in.
- After your PC and network are back online, try updating Sea of Thieves again.
This step often resolves minor connectivity or system hang-ups that block updates.
Step 2: Check Microsoft Store or Xbox App for Updates
Sea of Thieves updates through the Microsoft Store or Xbox app, so make sure these apps are themselves updated and working properly.
- Open the Microsoft Store app.
- Click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner and select Downloads and updates.
- Click Get updates to refresh and install any pending app updates.
- If you use the Xbox app, open it, go to Library, and check for game updates.
Updating these apps can fix underlying issues that stop Sea of Thieves from updating.
Step 3: Reset Microsoft Store Cache
A corrupted Microsoft Store cache can cause update errors. Resetting the cache can solve this problem.
- Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
- Type
wsreset.exeand press Enter. - A blank Command Prompt window will open; wait for it to close automatically.
- Once closed, the Microsoft Store will open automatically.
- Try updating Sea of Thieves again.
This process clears temporary files and refreshes the Store’s data without affecting installed apps.
Step 4: Run the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter
Windows 11 includes a built-in troubleshooter that can detect and fix Store-related problems.
- Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
- Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
- Find Windows Store Apps and click Run.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting.
- Restart your PC if prompted, then try the update again.
This tool can automatically repair issues that prevent app updates.
Step 5: Check and Repair Sea of Thieves Game Files
Corrupted or missing game files might block updates. You can scan and repair the game files through the Xbox app or Microsoft Store.
- Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
- Go to Apps > Installed apps and find Sea of Thieves.
- Click the three dots next to it and select Advanced options.
- Scroll down and click Repair. This will attempt to fix corrupted files without deleting your data.
- If repair doesn’t work, try the Reset option (note: this may delete game data).
After repairing or resetting, try updating the game again.
Step 6: Temporarily Disable Antivirus and Firewall
Sometimes, security software blocks game updates thinking they are suspicious. Temporarily disabling antivirus or firewall can help identify if this is the cause.
- Open your antivirus or firewall software.
- Temporarily disable real-time protection or firewall shields.
- Try updating Sea of Thieves while protection is off.
- If the update works, add Sea of Thieves and Microsoft Store to the antivirus/firewall exceptions list.
- Remember to re-enable your security software afterward to stay protected.
This step ensures that security settings are not mistakenly blocking your update.
Step 7: Reinstall Sea of Thieves
If none of the above steps work, reinstalling the game can fix deeper issues.
- Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
- Find Sea of Thieves and click Uninstall.
- Confirm the uninstall and wait for it to complete.
- Open the Microsoft Store or Xbox app and reinstall Sea of Thieves.
- After installation, check for updates again.
Reinstalling replaces all game files with fresh copies, which usually resolves persistent problems.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is my Sea of Thieves update stuck at 0%?
This usually happens due to network issues, Microsoft Store cache problems, or corrupted files. Try restarting your PC, resetting the Store cache, and checking your internet connection.
Can I update Sea of Thieves without the Microsoft Store?
No. Sea of Thieves updates are managed through the Microsoft Store or Xbox app on Windows. You need these apps working properly to update the game.
Will resetting Sea of Thieves delete my saved game progress?
Typically, your game progress is saved in the cloud via your Xbox Live account. Resetting the app may delete local files, but your progress should sync when you log back in.
How do I check if my Windows 11 is up to date?
Go to Settings > Windows Update and click Check for updates. Install any available updates before updating the game.
What should I do if I keep getting error codes during updates?
Note down the error code and search for it on the official Sea of Thieves or Microsoft support sites. You can also try the troubleshooting steps above or contact support directly.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all the above steps and still cannot update Sea of Thieves, consider the following options:
- Visit the official Sea of Thieves Support page for specific error codes and assistance.
- Check the Sea of Thieves Twitter for any ongoing server or update issues.
- Contact Microsoft Support for help with Microsoft Store or Xbox app problems.
- Consider creating a new Windows user account to rule out profile-related issues.
These resources can provide more tailored help or updates about known issues.
Conclusion
Fixing Sea of Thieves update issues on Windows 11 is usually straightforward if you follow the right steps. Start with simple actions like restarting your PC and checking your internet connection. Then reset the Microsoft Store cache and run the troubleshooter to clear common errors.
If needed, repair or reinstall the game and ensure your antivirus isn’t blocking updates. Keeping Windows and Store apps updated also prevents many problems.
By systematically working through these solutions, you’ll likely resolve your update issue quickly and get back to enjoying your pirate voyages. Remember, official support channels are always there if you need extra assistance.