How to Fix Microsoft Store Error Code 0x80073CF9?
When installing or updating an app from the Microsoft Store, error code 0x80073CF9 often occurs, disrupting the installation process and causing it to fail. This issue indicates a problem with app installation due to a corrupted Microsoft cache or missing essential folders, such as AppReadiness or AUInstallAgent, in the Windows directory. These folders are essential for managing updates and other system packages.
Another reason could be that the application you want to update is running in the background, which prevents the update process from completing and results in the error code 0x80073CF9 in the Microsoft Store.
Since we’ve discussed the causes, let’s explore the solutions to fix this issue.
1. Create an AUInstallAgent folder in the Windows Directory
The AUInstallAgent folder is necessary for managing app updates and installations. Since its absence is one of the main causes of the issue, manually creating this folder in the Windows directory can restore the necessary files required for app updates.
- Press the Win + E keys simultaneously to open File Explorer.
- Navigate to the C:\Windows directory.
- Right-click on an empty space, hover over New, and select Folder to create a new folder.
- Name the folder AUInstallAgent and restart your computer.
- After restarting, try updating or installing the app to check if the error is resolved.
2. Reset the Microsoft Store Cache
Resetting the Microsoft Store cache clears temporary files, such as cached data that may become outdated or corrupted, causing the app installation to fail. Refreshing the store’s cache restores its functionality and can help resolve the issue.
- Press the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog.
- Type wsreset.exe in the input box and click OK to reset the Microsoft Store cache.
- Once the reset is complete, check if the issue persists.
3. Terminate the App and Try Again
Several users have reported that terminating the app you’re trying to update before starting the update process resolves error 0x80073CF9. This ensures no instances of the app are running in the background, which could interfere with the update.
- Open Settings by pressing the Win + I keys simultaneously.
- Navigate to Apps > Installed Apps.
- Find the app you are trying to update, click the three dots next to it, and select Advanced Options.
- Scroll down and click Terminate to close all instances of the app.
- After that, try updating or installing the app to see if the error is resolved.
4. Reinstall the Microsoft Store app
Problematic files associated with the Microsoft Store app can also cause this error. Reinstalling the Microsoft Store will restore any corrupted files and reset the app to its original state, potentially resolving the error.
- Open the Start Menu and type Windows PowerShell.
- Right-click on it and select Run as Administrator.
- Enter the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each, to reinstall the Microsoft Store:
Get-AppxPackage -allusers Microsoft.WindowsStore | Remove-AppxPackage Get-AppxPackage -allusers Microsoft.WindowsStore | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"}
- Once the Microsoft Store has been reinstalled, check if the issue is resolved.
5. Perform an In-Place Upgrade
If the issue persists, performing an in-place upgrade is one of the most effective ways to resolve it. This method is beneficial as it does not uninstall your apps or data on your Windows system.
- To perform an in-place upgrade, download the ISO file from the official Microsoft website.
- Once it is downloaded, double-click on it and run Setup.exe. This process will restore corrupted files and components that should resolve the error.
- Once your PC is restarted, verify if this resolves the issue.
Alternatively, you can create a new user account and transfer your data from the previous account to the new one. This option is recommended if you do not want to perform an in-place upgrade.
