How to Manage Microsoft Store App Updates in Windows 11
Microsoft Store app updates keep your programs running smoothly and secure in Windows 11. The Microsoft Store itself manages these updates, letting you control whether they happen automatically or manually.
You can choose to have apps update as soon as new versions are ready, or you can decide when each update installs. This gives you control over your PC’s resources and when you want to make changes.
This guide explains how to find and change your Microsoft Store update settings in Windows 11, ensuring your apps are always current or letting you decide when that happens.
Turn automatic updates off in Microsoft Store settings by clicking your profile, selecting Settings, and toggling App updates. If updates fail, run wsreset.exe from the Run dialog to clear the cache.
Why Update Your Apps?
App updates fix bugs and security holes to keep your computer safe. Outdated software can leave your computer vulnerable to hackers. Regularly updating your apps keeps them running smoothly and enhances security.
What Are Microsoft Store Apps?
Microsoft Store apps are programs downloaded from the official Microsoft Store, unlike traditional programs that use .exe files. By default, these Microsoft Store apps update automatically. Some Microsoft Store apps, however, use their own internal update systems instead of the Store’s automatic updates.
Method 1Turn Off Updates in the Microsoft Store App
To control updates directly, open the Microsoft Store app.
- Open the Microsoft Store app.
- Click your profile picture in the top right.
- Select Settings.
- Click App updates.
- Toggle the switch to On or Off.
Troubleshooting Failed Updates
If app updates aren’t working, try clearing the Microsoft Store cache. This action removes temporary files that can cause errors, ensuring your apps can download updates. Follow these steps to restore proper functionality to the Microsoft Store for Windows 11.
1Use the WSReset Command
The WSReset.exe tool clears the Microsoft Store’s cache. This process resets the store’s temporary files, which often fixes stuck app updates without deleting your installed applications. WSReset.exe allows the Microsoft Store to download and install new app versions correctly.
- Press the Windows Key + R on your keyboard.
- Type
wsreset.exeand press Enter. - A blank window will appear. Wait for it to close automatically. The Store will then open.
2Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter
Method 2Use the Group Policy Editor (Admin Only)
For administrators, stopping Microsoft Store app updates for all users on a PC is possible using the Group Policy Editor. This tool allows you to manage app updates for every user account on your computer, giving you complete control over when apps are updated.
This method is for users comfortable with advanced settings and who need to manage updates for everyone on the PC.
- Press Windows Key + R, type
gpedit.msc, and press Enter. - Go to:
Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Store - Find Turn off Automatic Download and Install of updates.
- Set it to Enabled to stop updates or Disabled to allow them.
Method 3Use the Registry Editor (Admin Only)
If the Group Policy Editor isn’t available on your PC, administrators can still manage Microsoft Store app updates via the Registry Editor. This method requires modifying system settings to manage how your apps update from the Microsoft Store.
Try this method if the Group Policy Editor isn’t available on your system.
- Press Windows Key + R, type
regedit, and press Enter. - Navigate to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\WindowsStore\WindowsUpdate - Right-click, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it
AutoDownload. - Set the value to 4 to stop updates or 2 to allow them.
Summary
Managing your Microsoft Store app updates provides control over what gets installed and when, helping to keep your computer secure and running smoothly.
Why are my Microsoft Store apps stuck on pending?
Apps often get stuck on pending because of a corrupted cache or a stalled background service. This prevents the store from communicating with update servers. Clearing the store cache or restarting the Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS) usually fixes this issue and allows your downloads to resume normally.
How do I clear the Microsoft Store cache to fix update issues?
You can clear the cache by running the WSReset command. Press ⊞ Win+R, type wsreset.exe, and hit Enter. This clears temporary files that might be corrupt. Once the process finishes, the Microsoft Store will launch automatically, and you can try updating your apps again.
Was this guide helpful?
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.
No comments yet — be the first to share your thoughts!