How to Clear Microsoft Store Cache on Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

If the Microsoft Store on Windows 11 feels slow, won’t download apps, or shows errors, the culprit could be a corrupted cache. Clearing the Microsoft Store cache often fixes these problems quickly.

In this guide, we’ll walk through step-by-step methods to clear the Microsoft Store cache in Windows 11, along with tips, troubleshooting, and FAQs.


📌 Why Clear the Microsoft Store Cache in Windows 11?

Like browsers, Microsoft Store stores temporary data (cache) to speed up operations. Over time, this cache can become corrupted, causing issues.

Common problems caused by a bad cache:

  • Apps won’t download or update.

  • Error codes like 0x80070422, 0x80131500, or 0x80072F8F.

  • Slow loading of the Microsoft Store.

  • Incorrect app search results or missing apps.

Clearing the cache resets the Store and often resolves these issues.


✅ Methods to Clear Microsoft Store Cache in Windows 11

There are several ways to clear the cache. Let’s go step by step.


1. Clear Cache Using WSReset Command (Quick Method)

This is the simplest and most common way.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run.

  2. Type:

    wsreset.exe

    and press Enter.

  3. A blank Command Prompt window will appear.

  4. After a few seconds, it will close, and the Microsoft Store will open automatically.

👉 This resets the cache without changing account settings or deleting installed apps.


2. Manually Delete Microsoft Store Cache Files

Sometimes WSReset doesn’t work. You can delete cache files manually.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + E to open File Explorer.

  2. Navigate to:

    C:\Users\<YourUsername>\AppData\Local\Packages
  3. Find the folder:

    Microsoft.WindowsStore_8wekyb3d8bbwe
  4. Open the LocalCache folder inside.

  5. Delete all files inside LocalCache.

👉 Restart your PC after deleting the cache files.


3. Reset Microsoft Store from Windows Settings

If issues persist, reset the app entirely.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.

  2. Go to Apps → Installed apps.

  3. Find Microsoft Store.

  4. Click Advanced options.

  5. Scroll down → Click Reset.

👉 This clears cache + app data. You’ll stay signed in, but Store settings will reset.


4. Reinstall Microsoft Store (Last Resort)

If nothing works, reinstall the Microsoft Store via PowerShell.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + X → Select Windows Terminal (Admin).

  2. Run the command:

    Get-AppxPackage -allusers Microsoft.WindowsStore | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"}
  3. Restart your PC.

👉 This reinstalls the Microsoft Store with a fresh cache.


⚡ Comparison of Methods

Method Difficulty Effectiveness Best Use Case
WSReset.exe Easy High Quick fixes
Manual Deletion Medium High When WSReset fails
Reset via Settings Easy Very High Persistent Store issues
Reinstall Store Hard Ultimate Fix Corrupted Store installation

🔧 Extra Tips to Prevent Cache Problems

  • Keep Windows 11 updated (Settings → Windows Update).

  • Regularly clear cache if you install many apps.

  • Ensure time & region settings are correct.

  • Run Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter when issues appear.


✅ Conclusion

Clearing the Microsoft Store cache in Windows 11 can solve most download, update, and performance issues.

  • Use WSReset.exe for quick fixes.

  • Delete LocalCache files if WSReset doesn’t work.

  • Reset or reinstall Microsoft Store if problems persist.

With these step-by-step methods, you’ll have a smooth, fully working Microsoft Store again.


❓ FAQs: Clear Microsoft Store Cache on Windows 11

1. Does clearing Microsoft Store cache delete apps?
No. It only removes temporary files. Your apps remain installed.

2. Will I be signed out of my Microsoft account?
Not with WSReset, but resetting the app in Settings may sign you out.

3. How often should I clear the cache?
Only when the Store becomes slow or shows errors.

4. What if Microsoft Store still won’t open after clearing cache?
Reset or reinstall the Microsoft Store.

5. Is WSReset safe to use?
Yes. It’s an official Microsoft tool and won’t harm your PC.


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