How to Fix Microsoft Store Error Code 0x80070520

Microsoft Store was first introduced in Windows 8 as an app store. It was developed for the sole purpose of dispensing UWP aka Universal Windows Platform applications. One of the common issues faced by the users while using the MS Store is the 0x80070520 error code. This pops up while you are trying to update or install an application using MS Store. This issue can be caused by various things including obsolete Windows, Microsoft Store cache or simply just an obsolete version of the MS Store itself.

MS Store Error Code 0x80070520

The issue can be easily dealt with via a few easy solutions that we are going to discuss in this article along with the causes of the issue in detail. 

What causes the Microsoft Store Error Code 0x80070520?

After surfing a few user reports, we have found that the problem is often caused due to the following reasons —

  • Obsolete Windows: First things first, running an obsolete version of the Windows 10/8 can be the culprit for this particular issue. The apps that you are trying to install or update might require the latest Windows build to operate properly. 
  • Outdated MS Store: Keeping the MS Store up to date is highly necessary for seamless functionality. Having an archaic version of the Microsoft Store is known to cause quite a few problems including this one. 
  • Microsoft Store Cache: When you use the MS Store to install an application into your system, small temporary files are created known as a cache. These files can sometimes be corrupted or damaged which causes certain issues. 

Now that we know the causes of the issue, let us get into the part where you will get to know how to fix your issue step-by-step. 

Solution 1: Update Windows

The first thing you need to do when you face the said error code is to make sure you are running the latest Windows build. Windows updates are usually packed with much more stability, bug fixes and updates for certain software like the MS Store and Windows Defender. Follow the given steps to update your system: 

  1. Press Windows Key + I to open up the Settings window in Window 10. 
  2. Go to Update and Security.
  3. There, click ‘Check for updates’ and wait for it to complete.
    Checking for Windows Updates
  4. Once done, it might ask you to restart your system. 
  5. Do that and then see if you still face the issue.

If you are running Windows 8, just go to the Control Panel > System and Security. From there, you will be able to update your Windows. 

Solution 2: Clear Microsoft Store Cache

If the above solution does not fix your issue, then, you will have to clear the Microsoft Store cache. This will get rid of the MS cache without removing the already installed applications. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Press the Windows Key to open up the Start Menu.
  2. Type in wsreset, right-click on it and then select Run as an administrator (or you can just select Run as an administrator from the section on the right-side in Windows 10).
    Resetting MS Store
  3. An empty command prompt will appear. Do not click or do anything till the command prompt fades. 
  4. Once it closes, restart your system.
  5. See if the issue persists. 

Solution 3: Update Microsoft Store

If you are running an out of date MS Store, then chances are that the issue is appearing because of it. You will not be able to update any applications if you have an obsolete version of MS Store. Therefore, make sure you are running the latest version of the Microsoft Store by checking for any updates for it. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Open up the Microsoft Store
  2. On the top right corner of the MS Store window, click on the More button (3 dots). 
  3. Select Downloads and updates.
  4. Finally, click ‘Get updates’. If there’s an update available, it will start downloading momentarily.
    Updating MS Store

Solution 4: Run the MS Store Troubleshooter

You can also try to fix the issue by running the dedicated troubleshooter for Microsoft Store. The troubleshooter will search for any known issues and try to solve them itself. Here’s how to run the troubleshooter:

  1. Press Windows Key + I to open up Settings.
  2. Go to Update and Security
  3. Navigate to the Troubleshoot section. 
  4. Scroll down to Find and fix other problems.
  5. Click Windows Store Apps and then hit Run the troubleshooter.
    MS Store Troubleshooter
  6. Wait for it to complete and then see if the issue is still there.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kevin Arrows


Kevin Arrows is a highly experienced and knowledgeable technology specialist with over a decade of industry experience. He holds a Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) certification and has a deep passion for staying up-to-date on the latest tech developments. Kevin has written extensively on a wide range of tech-related topics, showcasing his expertise and knowledge in areas such as software development, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. His contributions to the tech field have been widely recognized and respected by his peers, and he is highly regarded for his ability to explain complex technical concepts in a clear and concise manner.