Microsoft Store Error 0x80073d02: Fixes That Work

Microsoft Store error 0x80073d02 stops app downloads and updates on Windows 10 and Windows 11. The fix usually involves clearing the Store cache, checking your date and time settings, or resetting the Store app itself. Below are the exact steps to resolve it, plus what causes the error and how to avoid it in the future.

What Does Error 0x80073d02 Mean?

This error code appears when the Microsoft Store cannot complete a download or update. Windows uses this code to indicate a problem with the Store’s background service or its ability to write files to your system drive. It often shows up when you try to install a new app, update an existing one, or when the Store tries to download content automatically.

The error is not specific to one app—it can affect any title in the Store. It is also not a sign of a hardware failure or a corrupted Windows installation. In most cases, it is a temporary glitch in the Store’s own cache or a conflict with system settings.

Why Does This Error Happen?

Several common triggers cause 0x80073d02:

• Corrupted Store cache: The Store keeps temporary files to speed up browsing and downloads. When these files become damaged, downloads fail with this error.
• Date and time mismatch: Windows uses your system clock to verify download licenses. If the date, time, or time zone is wrong, the Store rejects the request.
• Background service stopped: The Microsoft Store Install Service (or the Windows Update service) may be disabled or not running, preventing downloads from starting.
• Outdated Store app: The Store itself needs updates. An old version can have bugs that trigger this error.
• Third-party antivirus interference: Some security programs block the Store’s network access or file operations, causing the download to fail.

How to Fix Error 0x80073d02

Try these fixes in order. Most users only need the first one.

1. Clear the Microsoft Store Cache

1. Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type wsreset.exe and press Enter.
3. A blank Command Prompt window will open. Wait for it to finish (it may take a minute). The Store will open automatically.
4. Try downloading the app again.

This does not delete your installed apps or your Microsoft account. It only removes the Store’s temporary cache files.

2. Check Date and Time Settings

1. Go to Settings > Time & Language > Date & time.
2. Turn on Set time automatically and Set time zone automatically.
3. If they are already on, turn them off, wait 10 seconds, then turn them back on.
4. Restart your PC and try the Store again.

3. Reset the Microsoft Store App

1. Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps (or Apps & features).
2. Find Microsoft Store in the list.
3. Click the three-dot menu (or the app name) and select Advanced options.
4. Scroll down and click Reset. Confirm if prompted.
5. Wait for the reset to finish, then reopen the Store.

This reinstalls the Store app without affecting your other apps or files.

4. Run the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter

1. Open Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
2. Find Windows Store Apps and click Run.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions. The tool will detect and fix common issues automatically.

5. Restart the Microsoft Store Install Service

1. Press Windows Key + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Scroll down to Microsoft Store Install Service (or Windows Update if the first is missing).
3. Right-click it and select Restart. If it is not running, set its startup type to Automatic and start it.
4. Close the window and try the Store again.

6. Re-register the Microsoft Store

If the above fails, open PowerShell as administrator and run this command:

Get-AppxPackage -AllUsers Microsoft.WindowsStore | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"}

This re-registers the Store with Windows without deleting your apps.

What If the Error Persists?

If none of the steps work, try these additional checks:

• Run Windows Update: Go to Settings > Windows Update and install all pending updates. A system update often fixes Store bugs.
• Check your internet connection: A VPN or proxy can interfere with the Store. Temporarily disable them and try again.
• Disable third-party antivirus temporarily: If the error goes away, add the Store to the antivirus whitelist.
• Create a new user account: A corrupted user profile can cause Store errors. Create a test account and see if the Store works there.

How to Prevent This Error in the Future

• Keep Windows and the Store app updated regularly.
• Avoid using third-party cleaners that delete Store cache files.
• Ensure your system clock is always set to automatic.
• Do not disable the Windows Update or Store services in services.msc.
• If you use a VPN, connect to a stable server before opening the Store.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will resetting the Store delete my installed apps?

No. Resetting the Store only removes the Store app’s own data and cache. Your installed apps, game saves, and Microsoft account settings remain untouched.

Can I fix this error without admin rights?

The wsreset.exe command works without admin rights. However, restarting services or re-registering the Store requires an administrator account. If you are on a work or school PC, contact your IT administrator.

Why does this error happen only for one app?

It usually means the app’s download files are corrupted. Try uninstalling the app completely, then reinstalling it from the Store. If that fails, the app itself may have a server-side issue—wait a few hours and try again.

Is error 0x80073d02 a sign of a virus?

No. It is a standard Windows Store error code. It does not indicate malware. However, if you suspect an infection, run a full Windows Defender scan to be safe.

Does this error affect Xbox Game Pass downloads?

Yes, because Game Pass downloads use the Microsoft Store backend. The same fixes apply—start with wsreset.exe and then try the other steps if needed.

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