I've been dealing with a growing number of computers that are experiencing failures with Windows Store apps, especially the Photos app and Snipping Tool. Despite several attempts to repair or reinstall these apps, I'm hitting a wall. Here's what I've tried:
1. First, I removed the Photos app for all users using a PowerShell command.
2. Next, I cleared any leftover data from the WindowsApps folder (which I know is optional but I thought it would help).
3. Finally, I attempted to reinstall the Photos app directly from the Microsoft Store, but the download just hangs.
I have also reset the store using the `wsreset` command, and I've looked into installing the Windows App SDK Runtime, but nothing seems to have worked. This issue is happening across both Windows 10 and 11 machines, which are all connected to the domain. I'm not convinced that it's a Group Policy or firewall issue since some machines still function without problems. Has anyone else encountered these problems, and what solutions have you found besides wiping the machines clean and starting over?
3 Answers
Have you tried using DISM and `sfc /scannow`? Sometimes those tools can help fix underlying system file issues that might be causing the app failures.
Have you ever run a 'debloating' script on these machines? Some of those scripts can permanently disable the store feature, causing issues like what you're describing.
I don't think any debloating scripts were run, at least on a few of the computers I checked. Honestly, those scripts often create more problems than they solve.
This can be a headache! I've noticed that it often happens with machines that underwent in-place upgrades where the store was either disabled or removed. Make sure the Windows Store is enabled via Group Policy or the registry. It's also worth checking that 'Do not connect to any Windows update Internet locations' is disabled. If you want to automate installs, consider using Winget with the MS Store source. Alternatively, you could try installing via the package dependencies, though I had trouble with the newest Snipping Tool due to missing dependencies.
Appreciate the advice! I'll check on those settings and the automation options you mentioned.
Yeah, I actually ran those but didn’t see anything alarming. I'll give it another look just to be safe.