Fix: “We encountered an error. Please try signing in again later” Microsoft Store

If you see the error message ‘We encountered an error. Please try signing in again later’ while using the Microsoft Store, it usually points to issues with your Microsoft account, network, or app data. This error can stop you from downloading apps or accessing content, which can be really frustrating. Common causes include incomplete updates, misconfigured settings, or even server problems.

In this guide, we will walk you through tested solutions to resolve the problem.

Quick Fixes:

• Ensure you are connected to a reliable Wi-Fi or Ethernet network.
• If you’re using a VPN or Proxy, disable it temporarily as it might hinder your connection to Microsoft servers.

Method 1: Run the Microsoft Store Troubleshooter

This tool is designed to automatically detect and fix common problems related to Windows Store apps. When you run it, Windows scans for issues such as corrupted app files or misconfigured settings that may prevent the Store from functioning correctly.

1. Open the Settings app by pressing Windows + I.
2. Navigate to System > Troubleshoot.
   
3. Click on Other troubleshooters.
   
4. Select Windows Store Apps and click Run the troubleshooter.
   

Method 2: Clear the Microsoft Store Cache

The Microsoft Store relies on cached data to speed up operations and improve user experience. However, if this cache becomes corrupted, it can lead to sign-in issues. Wsreset.exe command, clears out any potentially corrupted files and allows the Store to rebuild its cache fresh, which can eliminate errors related to outdated or damaged cached information.

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
   
2. Type wsreset.exe and press Enter. A blank Command Prompt window will open, and after a few moments, it will close automatically, and the Microsoft Store will launch.

Method 3: Re-register the Microsoft Store

If the Store is not functioning properly, re-registering it can help restore its functionality. This process ensures that all components of the Store are correctly registered with Windows, which can resolve issues originating from missing or corrupted app files.

1. Right-click on the Start menu and select Terminal (Admin).
   
2. In PowerShell, enter the following command and press Enter:

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

3. After running this command, restart your computer and try logging in again.

Method 4: Update Windows

Keeping your operating system up-to-date ensures that you have all necessary fixes and improvements. Updating Windows can resolve bugs that might be affecting your ability to sign in, as each update often includes important security patches and feature enhancements.

1. Go to Settings > Windows Update.
2. Click on Check for updates and install any available updates.

Method 5: Disable Local Group Policy Settings (if applicable)

For users on Windows 10/11 Pro or Enterprise editions, local group policies may restrict certain functionalities related to Microsoft accounts. By adjusting these policies, specifically disabling any restrictions on Microsoft account logins, you can eliminate barriers that prevent successful sign-ins. This ensures that your system adheres to standard login procedures without unnecessary restrictions imposed by local configurations.

1. Press Windows + R, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.
   
2. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Windows Settings > Security Settings.
3. From there, go to Local Policies > Security Options.
   
4. Find Accounts: Block Microsoft Accounts, set it to This policy is disabled, then restart your computer.
   

Adjusting this setting can allow your system to accept logins from Microsoft accounts if they were previously blocked by policy settings.

Method 6: Create a New User Account

If your current user account has corrupted settings, creating a new user account can help. Creating a new user account helps determine if the issue is specific to your current profile. Sometimes, user account settings can become corrupted or misconfigured, leading to various problems, including sign-in issues with the Microsoft Store.

By creating a new local account, you start fresh with default settings and permissions, which can bypass any problematic configurations in your original account and allow you access to the Store.

1. Open Settings > Accounts > Other users.
   
2. Click on Add Account.
   
3. Click on I don’t have this person’s sign-in information.
   
4. Then select Add a user without a Microsoft account.
   
5. Follow the prompts to create a new local account.
   
6. Log into this new account and check if you can access the Microsoft Store without errors.