How to Reinstall Microsoft Store Apps in Windows 11
Reinstalling Microsoft Store apps in Windows 11 fixes broken apps that crash, freeze, or refuse to open by replacing them with fresh copies. Standard right-click Del options often leave behind hidden system files, but Windows PowerShell (a built-in text command tool) wipes out stubborn apps completely so you can start over.
This method clears out bugs in built-in tools like the Calculator or third-party downloads from the Microsoft Store in a few quick steps. You need administrator access on your PC to run these commands safely.
To reinstall Microsoft Store apps, first try resetting the store cache by running wsreset.exe. If that doesn’t work, you can use PowerShell commands or the Winget utility to remove and then reinstall the app.
Why reinstall Microsoft Store apps?
Corrupted files or interrupted updates can break built-in software unexpectedly. Reinstalling gives the package a clean start and clears out persistent errors like ‘App not installed’.
What happens when done?
The application restores to its original state during this process. Your settings might reset, but game save data stays safe in cloud storage or user folders.
Check for Windows Updates First
Check for Windows Updates First
Confirm the operating system runs the latest patches before troubleshooting software. Navigate to Settings Windows Update Check for updates. Background system updates frequently fix underlying bugs causing apps to misbehave.
Fixing Microsoft Store Cache
Clearing the store cache fixes underlying distribution glitches. Press Win + R, type wsreset.exe, and press Enter. A blank command prompt window appears briefly and closes automatically once the cache clears.
How to reinstall apps using PowerShell
You can reinstall Microsoft Store apps using PowerShell by running specific commands that completely remove the broken app package from your computer and then force Windows to download and install a fresh copy. This method fixes stubborn apps that refuse to open, update, or reinstall through the standard Microsoft Store interface by wiping out corrupted system files and starting over.
To remove a broken app, run Get-AppxPackage -AllUsers | Remove-AppxPackage in the prompt. To reinstall it, run Get-AppxPackage -AllUsers -Name *YourApp* | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"}.
Get-AppxPackage *name* | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)AppXManifest.xml"}
Using Winget for Reinstallation
Winget (a command-line tool for installing apps) handles software deployment from Microsoft repositories. Execute the command winget install [ID]. For example, updating the Calculator requires running winget install 9WZDNCRFHVN5.
Summary
Targeted reinstallation eliminates persistent software glitches. WSReset.exe, PowerShell scripts, and the Winget utility offer reliable paths back to a working desktop. Always check for Windows Updates first to ensure system stability.
Why is my Microsoft Store app stuck at 0% download?
Microsoft Store downloads get stuck at 0% when cache files corrupt or network connectivity drops intermittently.
How do I reinstall the Microsoft Store app itself if it is missing?
PowerShell restores a deleted Microsoft Store application. Open PowerShell as an administrator and run the command: Get-AppxPackage -AllUsers Microsoft.WindowsStore | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)AppXManifest.xml"}. This forces Windows to register the store package again.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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