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How to Fix Mixed Reality Not Installing on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Mixed Reality offers immersive experiences on Windows 11, but sometimes the installation process can run into issues. If you’ve been trying to set it up and it’s not installing properly, don’t worry—you’re not alone. This guide will walk you through simple, step-by-step solutions to get Mixed Reality up and running smoothly.

Each step is explained clearly, so even if you’re new to Windows troubleshooting, you can follow along without confusion. We’ll start with quick checks and then move to more detailed fixes. Let’s get your Mixed Reality working!

Before diving in, it’s important to understand why some issues occur; often it’s due to system requirements, outdated drivers, or Windows settings. Fixing these ensures a smoother installation.

By the end of this article, you should have a good grasp on resolving Mixed Reality installation problems on Windows 11. Let’s begin.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

Before trying any fixes, make sure your PC meets the minimum requirements for Windows Mixed Reality. This is crucial because if your hardware isn’t compatible, the installation might fail no matter what you try.

  • Check System Requirements: Your PC should have a compatible processor, at least 8GB RAM, and a supported graphics card. You can verify this by visiting Microsoft’s official Mixed Reality hardware requirements page.
  • Windows Update: Ensure your Windows 11 is fully updated. Mixed Reality depends on the latest system updates for smooth operation.
  • Internet Connection: A stable internet connection is needed to download necessary files during installation.
  • Storage Space: Confirm that you have enough free disk space (at least 10GB recommended) for the installation process.

Step 1: Run Windows Mixed Reality Setup as Administrator

Sometimes, the installation fails because the setup program does not have the necessary permissions.

  1. Locate the Mixed Reality Portal app in the Start menu.
  2. Right-click on it and select Run as administrator.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to continue the installation.

Running as administrator grants the setup permission to make system-level changes, which often resolves permission-related errors during installation.

Step 2: Check and Update Graphics Drivers

Mixed Reality requires up-to-date graphics drivers to function properly. Outdated or corrupted drivers can prevent installation.

  1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Display adapters section.
  3. Right-click your graphics card and choose Update driver.
  4. Select Search automatically for updated driver software.
  5. Allow Windows to install any updates found, then restart your PC.

If Windows doesn’t find any updates, visit your graphics card manufacturer’s website (e.g., NVIDIA, AMD, Intel) and download the latest drivers manually.

Step 3: Enable Windows Features Required for Mixed Reality

Certain Windows features must be turned on for Mixed Reality to install and run correctly.

  1. Press Win + R, type optionalfeatures, and press Enter.
  2. In the Windows Features window, scroll down and ensure Hyper-V and Windows Hypervisor Platform are checked.
  3. Also, make sure Virtual Machine Platform is enabled.
  4. Click OK and restart your computer if prompted.

These features allow Mixed Reality to utilize virtualization technology, which is essential for performance and compatibility.

Step 4: Reset the Mixed Reality Portal App

If the app is corrupted or stuck, resetting it can clear any glitches blocking installation.

  1. Open Settings by pressing Win + I.
  2. Go to Apps > Installed apps.
  3. Find Mixed Reality Portal in the list and click the three dots next to it.
  4. Select Advanced options.
  5. Scroll down and click Reset. Confirm any prompts.

Resetting clears app data without uninstalling, often fixing installation hang-ups.

Step 5: Use Windows Troubleshooter for Mixed Reality

Windows includes built-in troubleshooters that can detect and fix common issues automatically.

  1. Open Settings and navigate to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  2. Look for the Windows Mixed Reality troubleshooter (or related device troubleshooters).
  3. Click Run and follow the prompts.

This tool scans your system and tries to repair problems affecting Mixed Reality installation.

Step 6: Check for Windows Store and Microsoft Services Issues

Mixed Reality relies on Microsoft Store and related services. Problems here can block installation.

  • Reset Microsoft Store:
    1. Press Win + R, type wsreset.exe, and press Enter.
    2. Wait for the Store to reset and reopen automatically.
  • Restart Services:
    1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
    2. Find Microsoft Store Install Service and Windows Update.
    3. Right-click each and choose Restart.

Refreshing these components can clear issues that prevent Mixed Reality from installing properly.

Step 7: Manually Install Mixed Reality Feature via PowerShell

If the standard setup fails, you can try installing Mixed Reality components manually:

  1. Open PowerShell as administrator: Press Win, type PowerShell, right-click it, and select Run as administrator.
  2. Enter the following command to install the Mixed Reality feature: 
    Enable-WindowsOptionalFeature -Online -FeatureName "WindowsMixedReality" -All
  3. Wait for the process to complete, then restart your PC.

This method forces Windows to add the Mixed Reality feature directly, bypassing some installation issues.

FAQs

Why does Mixed Reality not install on my Windows 11 PC?

Common reasons include incompatible hardware, outdated graphics drivers, missing Windows features, or corrupted app files.

How do I check if my PC supports Mixed Reality?

Run the Mixed Reality PC Check tool from Microsoft or compare your hardware to the official requirements listed on Microsoft’s Mixed Reality website.

Can I install Mixed Reality without an internet connection?

No, an internet connection is required to download necessary files and updates during installation.

What should I do if the Mixed Reality Portal keeps crashing?

Try resetting the app via Settings, updating your graphics drivers, or reinstalling the feature as explained above.

Is it necessary to enable Hyper-V for Mixed Reality?

Yes, enabling Hyper-V and related virtualization features helps Mixed Reality run efficiently and is often required.

When Nothing Works

If you’ve tried all the steps above and Mixed Reality still won’t install, consider the following options:

  • Run the System File Checker: Open Command Prompt as administrator and run sfc /scannow to repair corrupted system files.
  • Perform a Windows Update Troubleshooter: This can fix update-related problems blocking installation.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit Microsoft Support for personalized help.
  • Check Community Forums: Microsoft’s Mixed Reality forums or tech communities like Reddit can have tips from users with similar issues.

Conclusion

Getting Windows Mixed Reality installed on Windows 11 can sometimes be tricky, but most issues come down to system requirements, driver updates, or Windows feature settings. By following the step-by-step solutions outlined here—from running the setup as administrator to manually installing the feature—you can resolve most installation problems.

Remember to start with basic checks and progress methodically to more advanced options. If all else fails, official support and community resources are great places to seek help. With patience and the right approach, you’ll be enjoying immersive Mixed Reality experiences on your PC in no time.

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