Fix: The deployment operation failed because the volume is offline

The error message “The deployment operation failed because the volume is offline” (HRESULT:0x80073D0D) appears when you try to install or update apps. This issue usually occurs when Windows detects the target drive as unavailable due to factors such as the drive being offline, a faulty cable, an improper connection, or issues with permissions or disk space. This is a common problem when installing apps from the Microsoft Store or Xbox Game Store. This guide outlines the most effective ways to resolve this issue.

1. Ensure the Target Drive is Online and Accessible

This step is crucial because if the drive is offline, Windows cannot install or update apps on it, triggering the “volume offline” error.

1. Press Windows + X and select Disk Management.

   

2. Look for the target drive in the list. If it shows “Offline,” right-click on it.

   

3. Select Online to bring the drive back into service.

2. Check Drive Health and File System Integrity

A damaged drive or corrupted file system can also result in the “Volume offline” error. Checking the drive’s health and file system integrity ensures there are no underlying issues preventing the installation or update of apps from the Microsoft Store or Xbox Game Store. This procedure scans the drive for errors and fixes any issues with the file system.

1. Press Win + S and type Command Prompt, right-click on it, and select Run as Administrator.
2. Type the following command to check the drive for errors and press Enter:

   chkdsk /f C:

   

3. If prompted, type (Y) to schedule the check for the next restart and reboot your computer.

3. Set the System Drive as the Default Installation Location

Sometimes, if the target drive is not set as the default installation location, Windows may attempt to install apps on an unavailable or offline drive, leading to the “volume offline” error. Setting the system drive as the default helps ensure apps are installed on a working drive.

1. Open Settings and navigate to System, then select Storage.
2. Under Advanced Settings Options, click on Change where new content is saved:.
3. In the “New apps will save to:” section, select your system drive (usually C:).
4. Click Apply to save the changes.

4. Verify Windows Update and Store Services Are Running

Another primary cause of this error is issues with Windows Update and Microsoft Store Services. If essential services such as Windows Update or the Microsoft Store service aren’t running, it can prevent app installations and updates, triggering the “volume offline” error. To fix this issue, verify that these services are running as intended.

1. Press Windows + R, type Services.msc, and press Enter to open the Services window.

   

2. Scroll down and locate Windows Update and Microsoft Store Install Service.
3. Right-click on each service and select Start if they are not running.
4. If the services are already running, right-click and select Restart to refresh them.