Fixing The Microsoft Store Error 0x80073CF9

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The error code 0x80073CF9 in the Microsoft Store typically indicates a problem with the installation of apps, often caused by issues like missing system folders, corrupted store cache, or network connection problems.

This error prevents users from downloading, installing, or updating apps through the Store, requiring specific troubleshooting steps to resolve.

Here’s how to address the Microsoft Store error 0x80073CF9.

1. Update Windows

Keeping Windows up-to-date is crucial for ensuring compatibility and smooth functioning of apps from the Microsoft Store. Here’s how to check for and install updates:

1. Access Update Settings
   • Click on the Start menu and open Settings.
   • Navigate to Update & Security.
   • Select Windows Update.
2. Check for Updates
   • Click on Check for updates.
   • If updates are available, you’ll be prompted to download and install them.
   • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the update process.
3. Restart Your Computer
   • After the updates are installed, restart your computer to apply the changes.

2. Switch from Wireless to Wired Connection

Problems with the wireless network might cause the Microsoft Store error. Switching to a wired connection can often resolve these issues:

1. Connect to Wired Network
   • Use an Ethernet cable to connect your computer directly to your router or modem.
2. Disable Wireless Connection
   • Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
   • Type ncpa.cpl and press Enter to open the Network Connections window.
   • Right-click on your wireless network and select Disable.
   • This will force your system to use the wired connection.

3. Create the AppReadiness Folder

The absence of the AppReadiness folder in your Windows directory can prevent the Microsoft Store from operating correctly. Creating this folder manually can help resolve the issue:

1. Navigate to Windows Directory
   • Open File Explorer (Win + E).
   • Go to the C:\Windows folder (assuming C: is your system drive).
2. Create AppReadiness Folder
   • Right-click in an empty space in the folder.
   • Select New > Folder.
   • Name the new folder AppReadiness.
3. Verify Folder Path
   • Ensure the path to the folder is C:\Windows\AppReadiness.

4. Allow Store Access to the Packages Folder

Granting the Windows Store access to the Packages folder is essential for its proper functioning. Follow these steps to adjust the folder permissions:

1. Locate the Packages Folder
   • Open File Explorer and navigate to C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\AppRepository.
   • Note: Some folders might be hidden. Enable ‘Show hidden files, folders, and drives’ in Folder Options if necessary.
2. Adjust Permissions
   • Right-click on the AppRepository folder and select Properties.
   • Go to the Security tab and click Advanced.
   • Ensure that ‘ALL APPLICATION PACKAGES’ and ‘SYSTEM’ have full control.
   • Apply the changes and close the dialog.

5. Run the Microsoft Store Troubleshooter

The built-in troubleshooter can identify and fix common issues with the Microsoft Store:

1. Access the Troubleshooter
   • Press Winkey + I to open Settings.
   • Navigate to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
   • Click on Additional troubleshooters.
2. Run the Store Apps Troubleshooter
   • Find and select Windows Store Apps from the list.
   • Click on Run the troubleshooter.
   • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.

6. Clean the Cache

Clearing the cache of the Microsoft Store can resolve issues related to corrupted cache files:

1. Run WSReset Command
   • Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
   • Type WSReset.exe and press Enter.
   • A command prompt window will open and reset the Store cache.
2. Restart the Store
   • After the process completes, the Microsoft Store will open automatically.
   • Try downloading or updating apps to see if the issue is resolved.

7. Disable Antivirus and Firewall Temporarily

Third-party antivirus or firewall software can interfere with the Microsoft Store. Temporarily disabling them can help identify if they’re causing the error:

1. Disable Antivirus Software
   • Open your antivirus program.
   • Look for an option to disable or turn off the protection temporarily.
   • Remember to re-enable it after testing the Store.
2. Disable Windows Firewall
   • Press Winkey + I to open Settings.
   • Go to Update & Security > Windows Security > Firewall & network protection.
   • Click on your active network and turn off Windows Defender Firewall.
   • After testing, ensure to turn it back on to keep your system protected.

8. Reinstall the App or Microsoft Store

Uninstalling and reinstalling the problematic app or the Microsoft Store itself can often fix errors:

1. Uninstall the Problematic App
   • Go to Settings > Apps & Features.
   • Find the app, click on it, and select Uninstall.
2. Reinstall the App
   • After restarting your PC, reinstall the app from the Microsoft Store.
3. Reinstall Microsoft Store (if needed)
   • Open PowerShell as an administrator.
   • Use specific PowerShell commands to reinstall the Microsoft Store.
   • Restart your PC and check if the issue is resolved.

9. Create a New Microsoft Account

Creating a new Microsoft account and using it to access the Store can sometimes resolve errors associated with account-specific issues:

1. Create a New Account
   • Go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users.
   • Click on Add someone else to this PC.
   • Follow the instructions to create a new account.
2. Assign Administrator Role
   • Once the account is created, change its type to Administrator.
3. Sign In with the New Account
   • Log out of your current account and sign in with the new one.
   • Try accessing the Microsoft Store and installing apps.

10. Run SFC Scan

Using the System File Checker (SFC) scan can help repair corrupted system files which might be causing the Microsoft Store error:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator
   • Search for ‘cmd’ in the Windows search bar.
   • Right-click on ‘Command Prompt’ and select ‘Run as administrator’.
2. Run the SFC Scan
   • In the Command Prompt window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
   • The SFC scan will begin, and it might take some time to complete.
3. Restart Your Computer
   • After the scan is complete, restart your computer.
   • Check if the Microsoft Store error is resolved.

11. Other Solutions

Additional methods to consider when troubleshooting the Microsoft Store error 0x80073CF9 include:

• Delete OLE Folder in Registry Editor:
  • Open Registry Editor (regedit).
  • Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft and delete the OLE folder.
• Rename SoftwareDistribution Folder:
  • Open Command Prompt as administrator.
  • Execute the commands: net stop wuauserv, then rename c:\windows\SoftwareDistribution softwaredistribution.old, and net start wuauserv.
• Recreate AUInstallAgent Folder:
  • Navigate to C:\Windows and check for a folder named ‘AUInstallAgent’.
  • If it doesn’t exist, create a new folder with this name.

 

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