When the Windows Store App Simply Won’t Cooperate

One of the most frustrating errors is one that lacks a clear description or helpful advice. The “Something Went Wrong” error epitomizes this perfectly. This error can arise from a variety of issues, including connectivity problems, cache corruption, or incorrect system settings. Fortunately, with a few simple troubleshooting steps, you can resolve this error and get back to enjoying your Windows Store apps without further hassle. In this guide, we’ll walk you through practical solutions to fix the Windows Store “Something Went Wrong” error, ensuring a smooth and seamless experience.

How to resolve the Windows Store ‘Something Went Wrong’ error

Restart Your Device (Optional but Recommended):

Giving your device a quick restart is a great way to clear errors and quickly remind the OS to get back to work.

Check Internet Connection

The most common cause of this error is a lack of network connectivity so let’s check that you’re actually connected:

• Open your browser and try to load a webpage. If it loads, your connection’s likely working. If it doesn’t, you have your culprit.

Restart your router

• Unplug it, count to ten, and plug it back in. Sometimes, the simplest tricks work wonders.

Toggle Wi-F

• toggle your Wi-Fi off and on again from the system tray or settings.

Use a Wired Connection

If possible, connect your device directly to the router with an Ethernet cable to see if a stable, wired connection makes a difference.

Force Quit and Relaunch Microsoft Store App

• Close the app by clicking the ‘X’ at the top-right corner.
• For a more thorough closure, press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager. Locate Microsoft Store in the list, select it, and click “End Task.”
• Relaunch Microsoft Store: Click on the Start button, type “Microsoft Store,” and select it from the list of results. Alternatively, you can find it pinned to your Taskbar if you’ve done so previously.

Correct Date and Time Settings

• Press Win + I to open the Settings menu. Alternatively, hit the Start button and click on the gear-shaped icon.
• Navigate to Time & Language:
• Within the Settings menu, locate and click on the Time & Language option.
• Go to Date & Time:
• Once you’re in the Time & Language settings, select the Date & time tab on the left sidebar.
• Ensure toggle next to “Set time automatically” is switched to the ‘On’ position. This allows your system to automatically adjust the time based on your location.

Clear Windows Store Cache

• Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box. Once it appears, type in wsreset.exe. This command is designed to reset the Windows Store without altering your account settings or installed apps.
• Press Enter to execute the command. A black command prompt window should pop up. Wait a moment as the system works to clean up the Store’s cache.
• After a short wait, the command prompt will close automatically, and the Microsoft Store will launch anew. This fresh start can often resolve issues tied to corrupted cache files or minor glitches.

Conclusion

Encountering the “Something Went Wrong” error in the Windows Store can be frustrating, but it is typically resolvable with some straightforward troubleshooting steps. Start by ensuring your device is properly connected to the internet; if needed, restart your router or switch to a wired connection (it’s like giving your network a little nudge).

Forcing the Microsoft Store to close and relaunching it can also help, as can verifying that your system’s date and time settings are correct (because nobody likes a time traveler). Additionally, clearing the Windows Store cache using the wsreset.exe command can address issues related to corrupted cache files.

If these steps don’t resolve the issue, the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter can provide further assistance. By following these methods, you can quickly get your Windows Store back in working order and say goodbye to that pesky error.