How to Manage Microsoft Store App Updates in Windows 11

Why Update Your Apps?

App updates patch security holes and fix bugs. Outdated software leaves your PC open to attacks. Regularly updating applications enhances overall security.

What Are Microsoft Store Apps?

Microsoft Store apps are programs downloaded from the official platform, differing from traditional desktop software that relies on standalone installers. These apps usually update automatically by default. Certain programs, however, rely on internal updater tools rather than the Store mechanism.

Method 1Turn Off Updates in the Microsoft Store App

Open the Microsoft Store app and click your profile picture in the top right corner to get started.

1. Open the Microsoft Store app.
2. Click your profile picture in the top right.
3. Select Settings.

4. Click App updates.
5. Toggle the switch to On or Off.

Troubleshooting Failed Updates

Stuck downloads often require clearing the Microsoft Store cache. This removes corrupted temporary files blocking update retrieval. Follow these steps to restore proper functionality.

1Use the WSReset Command

Running the WSReset command clears the Microsoft Store cache so you can fix stuck Microsoft Store app updates without losing any of your installed apps. The tool resets the store backend and forces it to fetch fresh update lists from Microsoft servers automatically.

1. Press the Windows Key + R on your keyboard.
2. Type wsreset.exe and press Enter.
3. A blank window will appear. Wait for it to close automatically. The Store will then open.

2Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Persistent failures require running the official Windows Update Troubleshooter. This diagnostic utility checks system services like BITS (Background Intelligent Transfer Service), which coordinates background file transfers.

Method 2Use the Group Policy Editor (Admin Only)

Using the Group Policy Editor (a tool used to manage system settings across Windows) lets you turn off automatic Microsoft Store app updates for every user account on your computer at the same time. This works well if you manage multiple accounts and want complete control over when software updates happen.

Review these steps when managing environments that require centralized update control.

1. Press Windows Key + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.
2. Go to: Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Store
3. Find Turn off Automatic Download and Install of updates.
4. Set it to Enabled to stop updates or Disabled to allow them.

Method 3Use the Registry Editor (Admin Only)

Modifying the Registry Editor (a database that stores low-level Windows settings) lets you block Microsoft Store app updates on Windows versions that do not include the Group Policy Editor. This method achieves the exact same update restriction by changing system keys directly.

Apply this registry method when policy management tools are absent from the operating system edition.

1. Press Windows Key + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
2. Navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\WindowsStore\WindowsUpdate
3. Right-click, select New › DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it AutoDownload.
4. Set the value to 4 to stop updates or 2 to allow them.

Summary

Controlling software updates helps maintain system performance and security compliance. Tailoring these behaviors keeps workstations running efficiently.