Microsoft Store not working, any Microsoft licensed app won't install or update + Microsoft Store Install Service won't start

Hello Moxxo,

Welcome to Microsoft Q&A.

Based on your description, I understand that you’re experiencing issues with the Microsoft Store. You’ve already tried some of the most common troubleshooting steps for Microsoft Store problems. One key detail in your case appears to be the absence of the “Microsoft Store Install Service,” which could be the root cause. Without this service, the Store cannot properly manage app installations or updates.

I recommend starting with the following options:

Option 1: Run repair commands via Command Prompt (Admin):

sfc /scannow
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Option 2: Create a new user profile:

A corrupted user profile can cause unusual issues. Creating a new local user account and signing in with it can help determine whether the issue is system-wide or limited to your current profile.

To create a new account, follow these steps:

1. Search for CMD, right-click it, and choose Run as administrator, then enter the following command:

net user USERNAME PASSWORD /add

1. Once the command completes successfully, enter the following:

net localgroup administrators USERNAME /add

Note: Replace USERNAME and PASSWORD with your preferred account name and password. If you don’t want a password, you may omit PASSWORD.

In-place upgrade (repair install):

Compared to a factory reset, this is a less drastic option and can often resolve deeply rooted Windows issues without removing your files or apps. It essentially reinstalls Windows while keeping your personal files, applications, and settings.

To perform an in-place upgrade, go to Download Windows 11.

Under Download Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO), select Windows 11.

Steps:

1. After downloading the ISO, right-click the file and select Mount, then run Setup.exe.
2. If prompted by User Account Control, click Yes.
3. In the Windows 11 Setup dialog, click Next.
4. After the installer checks your PC, click Accept to agree to the license terms.
5. Wait for the installer to verify available disk space.
6. On the Ready to install page, ensure that Keep personal files and apps is selected, then click Install and follow the prompts.
7. Windows 11 will restart your device several times and guide you to the lock screen. Your files, apps, and settings should be preserved.

For a visual walkthrough, refer to this guide:

How to run in-place upgrade in Windows 11

Best wishes,

Ami | Microsoft Q&A Support Specialist