How to Unblock Microsoft Store on Windows 11

Encountering the “Microsoft Store is blocked” error can be frustrating, especially when you’re unable to access the app or receive error codes like 0x800704ec. This issue can have various causes, such as app restrictions set by your system administrator through Group Policy or registry modifications. Additionally, certain programs or antivirus software may interfere with the Microsoft Store. In this guide, we shall discuss How to Unblock Microsoft Store on Windows 11. Please see Differences between Directory Services and Databases, how to fix “Allow a blocked app: Application blocked unable to run and apply settings, and How to Quickly Fix Windows Search Bar Not Working.

However, there are several solutions available to resolve this problem. In this article, we will guide you through potential fixes that will help you overcome the “Microsoft Store is blocked” issue and regain access to the Store. Kindly see How to fix Windows Microsoft Store not opening, and Why Group Policy is not the best solution for managing Windows Updates.

Resolving the Microsoft Store Blocked Issue on Windows: Troubleshooting and Solutions

We have listed below various solutions and steps to fix the Microsoft store block issue, try out each solution and see the one that works for you.  

Before we proceed, here are other related guides for you: How to install Sysinternals from the Microsoft Store, How to install Windows Subsystem for Linux on Windows 11 via the Command line, and Microsoft Store, How to install Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA) in Windows 11, How to install Windows Subsystem for Linux on Windows Server, and How to install WSL2 on Windows Server.

Solution 1: Open the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter

Type “troubleshoot” in the Windows search bar and select “Troubleshoot settings” from the results.

In the Troubleshoot settings window, click on “Other troubleshooters” in the right pane.

Locate and select “Windows Store Apps” and click on the “Run the troubleshooter” button.

Follow the instructions provided by the troubleshooter to resolve any identified issues with Windows Store Apps.

Solution 2: Enable Microsoft Store from the Registry Editor

Type “regedit” in the Windows search bar and select “Run as administrator” from the results.

Navigate to the registry path shown below:

Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\WindowsStore

Right click on “RequirePrivateStoreOnly” and select “Modify”.

Set the value to “0” and click “OK”.

You can try to reopen the Microsoft Store to see if you now have access. If is not working yet proceed to clear the Microsoft Store cache.

Press the “Windows key + R” to open the Run dialog box. Type “wsreset.exe” and press Enter or click OK.

The Microsoft Store cache will be cleared, and the Store app will reopen.

This solution addresses the issue if you receive the message ” Microsoft Store is blocked Check with your IT or System Administrator.”

Solution 3: Enable Microsoft Store from the Group Policy Editor

Press the Windows key + R, type “gpedit.msc,” and click OK or press Enter.

In the Group Policy Editor, navigate to the following path:

Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Store

On the right pane, double-click on the “Turn off the Store application” policy.

If the policy is enabled, you should change the setting to “Not Configured” or “Disabled.” Click on Apply and OK to save the changes.

Restart your computer to apply the modifications and then open the Microsoft Store app.

If you receive the message “This app has been blocked due to company policy,” this solution addresses the issue.

Solution 4: Check for Windows Updates

Press the Windows key + R, type “control update,” and click OK or press Enter.

Click the “Check for updates” button.

If updates are available, click the “Install now” button. Installing Windows updates may resolve the issue.

Conclusion

By following the troubleshooting steps and implementing the appropriate solutions you can overcome the blocking issue and enjoy the benefits of the Microsoft Store on your Windows 11 PC.

I hope you found this article useful on How to Unblock Microsoft Store on Windows 11. Please let me know in the comment section if you have any questions.