Trying to grab apps or update stuff from the Microsoft Store and hitting the eternal “There Has Been an Error” message? Yeah, it’s frustrating. Mostly, it boils down to broken cache files, some goofy settings, weird network hiccups, or just plain outdated Store apps. Because of course, Windows has to make it harder than needed. The good news is, there are a handful of tricks that can fix the usual suspects without diving into deep tech stuff or reinstalling Windows altogether.
This isn’t foolproof, and sometimes, the problem is more stubborn—like weird proxy issues or corrupted system files—but if you follow these methods, there’s a decent shot you’ll tame that error. Expect the store to behave itself, at least temporarily. Let’s get into it.
How to Fix the Microsoft Store ‘There Has Been an Error’ Issue
Method 1: Reset the Microsoft Store Cache – Wipe the Slush
Sometimes the Store’s own cache gets corrupted or just goes rogue, which can result in errors when trying to download or update. Resetting this cache clears out all the temporary junk, giving the Store a fresh start. It’s kind of weird, but it works most of the time.
- Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
- Type
wsreset.exeand hit Enter. - Wait while a blank Command Prompt window flashes briefly—don’t worry, it’s supposed to disappear. After about ten seconds (sometimes a little longer), the Store will pop open automatically.
This step is quick and usually removes whatever temporary files are causing download hiccups. On some setups, it might take a couple of retries or a reboot afterward, but it’s worth it to clear the clutter.
Method 2: Run the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter – Let the Tool Do Its Thing
This built-in trouble-shooter checks for common issues like mismatched settings, corrupted files, or network-related problems. It’s like calling in an AI-powered repair bot to diagnose and fix whatever’s stopping your store from working.
- Press Windows + I to bring up Settings.
- Navigate to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
- Scroll down and find Windows Store Apps, then click Run the troubleshooter.
Follow any prompts it throws your way. Often, it will detect issues like permissions or internal errors and attempt a fix. Sometimes, it might even tell you what’s wrong with your system store-wise. It’s a quick, non-invasive way to handle stuff that’s not obvious.
Method 3: Check the System’s Date and Time Settings – The Time Is Right
If your clock is off—even by a few minutes—Microsoft’s servers might refuse to play nice, and that can cause errors when you try to connect. Not sure why it works, but making sure your date, time, and time zone are accurate can solve those authentication hiccups.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to Time & Language > Date & Time.
- Make sure Set time automatically and Set time zone automatically are both toggled on. If they already are, toggle them off and back on again just to refresh.
- Click Sync now under Additional Settings.
Having the right time syncs with Microsoft’s servers, making app updates and downloads feel less like a chore.
Method 4: Keep Windows Up to Date – Because Old Software Blames Itself
Running an outdated Windows that’s missing critical patches isn’t a good look. Updates often include fixes for Store bugs, compatibility issues, or security patches that keep everything running smoothly.
- Open Settings via Windows + I.
- Go to Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates. If anything pops up, install them, and restart when prompted.
Sometimes, an update not only fixes your Store error but improves overall stability. It’s annoying, but sometimes the simplest fix is just keeping Windows in its latest shape.
Method 5: Reset or Repair the Microsoft Store – Fix or Reinstall
If the cache reset didn’t help, try resetting or repairing the Store app itself. It won’t delete your apps or purchases, just resets its configurations and files. If that’s still not enough, a full repair might do the trick, then maybe even reinstall it from scratch.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Head to Apps > Installed Apps. Find Microsoft Store.
- Click the three dots next to it, then choose Advanced options.
- First, try clicking Repair. If errors stick around, then try Reset. Keep in mind, resetting clears data, but your app data remains intact.
This process can eliminate stubborn misconfigurations that aren’t fixed by other means.
Method 6: Reinstall the Store – Just Hit Reset and Reinstall
If nothing else works, reinstalling the Store makes sure it’s an entirely fresh copy of the app, like a clean install on steroids. That way, no lingering bugs or corrupt files stay behind.
- Press Windows + X and pick Windows PowerShell (Admin).
- Paste this command:
Get-AppxPackage WindowsStore -AllUsers | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_. InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"} - Hit Enter. The process will take a few seconds—don’t close PowerShell until it’s done.
- After it finishes, reboot your PC. The Store should now be reinstalled with a fresh copy.
If none of this does the trick, a call to Microsoft Support might be necessary, since the issue could be more deep-seated. But most of the time, these steps clear up the stumbling blocks. Just note that on one setup it worked right away, and on another, it took a couple of tries or a reboot—such is the charm of Windows sometimes.