Picture this: You’re excited to install a new app or game from the Microsoft Store, you hit the “Install” button, and then… nothing. Just the haunting phrase — “Getting Ready” — sitting there forever. If you’ve encountered this frustrating scenario, you’re not alone. Many Windows users report this issue, and fortunately, there are solid reasons why it happens and several proven ways to fix it without reaching for professional help.
TL;DR:
The Microsoft Store getting stuck on “Getting Ready” is often caused by software glitches, outdated components, or corrupted cache. Simple solutions like restarting the device, clearing the Microsoft Store cache, and updating Windows can often resolve the problem. If not, dives into more specific settings like the Windows Update service and background apps may be needed. Read on for a full breakdown of the fixes that actually work.
Why the Microsoft Store Gets Stuck on “Getting Ready”
Let’s break down the problem, so you understand what’s going on behind the scenes. The Microsoft Store relies on a web of services and permissions in your Windows operating system. If any part of that chain breaks — be it network issues, store-related cache, or outdated components — it might freeze up while trying to prepare app installation. Below are the most common culprits:
- Corrupt Microsoft Store cache or temporary files
- Slow or unstable Internet connection
- Outdated Windows or Microsoft Store version
- Background services not running as required
- Conflicts with antivirus or firewall
Now that we know why it happens, let’s look into what you can do about it, starting with the simplest fixes first.
Simple Fixes That Actually Work
1. Restart Your Computer
Yes, it’s cliché—but it works. Restarting your computer clears temporary glitches and can reinitialize background services required by the Microsoft Store. Try restarting and then attempting the installation again.
2. Check Your Internet Connection
A slow or unstable internet connection can cause the store to remain stuck. Ensure you’re connected to a reliable WiFi or Ethernet network. Try loading a few websites or streaming a short video to confirm the connection’s stability.
3. Run the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter
Windows comes with a built-in tool to detect and resolve Microsoft Store issues:
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
- Find Windows Store Apps and click Run.
This tool will scan and fix common glitches linked with the Microsoft Store.
4. Clear the Microsoft Store Cache
This is one of the most effective fixes. Corrupted cache files can prevent normal operations. To reset the cache:
- Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
- Type
wsreset.exeand press Enter.
A Command Prompt window will open and reset the cache. When it closes automatically, the Microsoft Store should relaunch.
5. Check for Windows Updates
Missing system updates can prevent the Microsoft Store from functioning correctly. Here’s how to ensure you’re up-to-date:
- Open Settings > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates and install any pending updates.
After updating, restart your device and try installing the app again.
6. Update the Microsoft Store Itself
It may sound ironic, but if the store itself is outdated, it might stall during installations. To check:
- Open the Microsoft Store.
- Click your profile icon in the top right corner and choose App settings or Downloads and updates.
- Click Get Updates to update all installed apps, including the Store.
7. Re-register the Microsoft Store Using PowerShell
If all else fails, you can use PowerShell to “re-register” the Microsoft Store, which often clears deeper software issues:
- Type PowerShell in the Start Menu, right-click it and select Run as Administrator.
- Paste the following command:
Get-AppxPackage *windowsstore* | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"}
This will refresh the Microsoft Store installation. Restart your device afterward.
Going Deeper: Advanced Things to Check
1. Enable Required Background Services
Several services must actively run for the Microsoft Store to work. Use these steps to confirm:
- Press Windows + R, type
services.msc, and hit Enter. - Ensure these services are running:
- Windows Update
- Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS)
- Cryptographic Services
- If not running, right-click each one and select Start.
2. Disable Antivirus and Firewall Temporarily
Third-party firewalls or antivirus programs can interfere with the Microsoft Store’s ability to communicate with servers or complete installations.
Temporarily disable your antivirus/firewall and try the installation. If successful, consider adding the Microsoft Store to the exception list of your antivirus program.
3. Use a Local or Different Microsoft Account
Your Microsoft account might be experiencing sync issues. To test this:
- Go to Settings > Accounts > Your Info.
- Sign out and sign back in with the same or a different Microsoft account.
- Alternatively, create a new local account and test the Store on it.
When All Else Fails: Perform a System Restore or Repair Install
If you’ve tried everything above and nothing works, there might be serious corruption in your system files. At this point, you can either:
- Perform a system restore to a point before the problem began.
- Use the Windows 10/11 repair install method, which keeps your files while reinstalling core OS components.
For repair installation, download the Media Creation Tool from the official Microsoft website, and use the “Upgrade this PC now” option.
Final Thoughts
While it’s undeniably frustrating when the Microsoft Store gets stuck on “Getting Ready,” the silver lining is that it’s a well-documented issue with clear solutions. By working through the steps above — from the quick fixes to more involved troubleshooting — you’ll give yourself a strong chance of resolving it without having to reinstall Windows from scratch.
Understanding that the issue often stems from background services, outdated components, or corrupted cache means you’re in a better position to diagnose not just this hiccup, but potential future problems as well.
App installations should be easy — hopefully, with these fixes, they will be again.
