Cant get the microsoft store to stop automatically downloading apps, how do i tell it to only download apps i approve of?

Question

the microsoft store as soon as i go onto it just starts downloading random apps that i guess it thinks i need based on whats actually in the best financial interest of microsoft and their affiliates and not in my besat interest like it should be. and this isnt just one app here and there its 5, 6,10, or sometimes 20 apps queing up to being downloaded all at once and i cant figure out how to get it to stop this. can anyone help me please please im desperate. thank you

Answer 1

You can choose to have Microsoft Store automatically update existing apps, some of which you may not recognize because they are actually part of Windows.

However, Microsoft Store will not download and install new apps on its own, and it's in nobody's interest to do that.

Answer 2

Hi Nathan Williams,

I can see that the AI Answer has already provided some common Microsoft Store troubleshooting steps. Please give those a try if you haven't already.

If the issue continues, I'd like to gather a bit more information before suggesting additional troubleshooting. Could you let me know:

• Which apps are being downloaded automatically?
• Are they completely new apps or apps you've installed previously?
• Does the behavior occur every time you open Microsoft Store or even when Store is closed?

Please also check Microsoft Store > Library and see whether the items are listed as updates or installs.

You could also try repairing Microsoft Store by going to Settings > System > System components > Microsoft Store > Advanced options > Repair. If that doesn't help, try Reset from the same menu.

If the downloads continue afterward, please try performing a Clean Boot and check whether the behavior persists. This can help determine whether a third-party application or manufacturer utility is triggering the downloads.

*Disclaimer: A "clean boot" starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs. It helps to determine whether a background service is interfering with your game or program and to isolate the cause of a problem. 

These steps of "clean boot" might look complicated at first glance. However, to avoid any trouble for you, please follow them in order and step-by-step so that it will help you get back on track. 

Additionally, please provide your Windows version by pressing Win + R, typing winver and sharing the version and OS build shown.

A screenshot of the download queue would also be helpful, as the app names can often reveal whether the Store is downloading updates, restoring apps associated with your Microsoft account or whether there is an issue with the Store itself.

I look forward to your update.

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Answer 3

Try these checks in order:

1. Turn off automatic app updates in Microsoft Store
   • Open Start and select Microsoft Store.
   • Select Profile (account picture) > Settings.
   • Turn App updates Off.
   • This stops Microsoft Store from automatically installing app updates.
2. Check whether Windows is set to allow only Store apps or to recommend Store apps
   • In Windows 11: go to Start > Settings > Apps > Advanced app settings.
   • Under Choose where to get apps, select Anywhere if app recommendations are the issue.
   • If it is set to The Microsoft Store only (Recommended), Windows is more restrictive about non-Store apps.
3. If files are being downloaded automatically by apps, block that app
   • When the notification appears, select Cancel download > Block app.
   • This blocks that app from downloading online-only files again.
   • Note: Blocking apps can make them unstable.
4. If Store behavior seems stuck or abnormal, reset Microsoft Store
   • Press Windows key + R.
   • Enter wsreset.exe and select OK.
   • A blank command window opens, then Microsoft Store opens automatically.

If the downloads are specifically Microsoft Store app updates, step 1 is the main setting to change.

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• Turn on automatic app updates
• Change your app recommendation settings in Windows
• Automatic file download notifications in Windows
• I can't find or install an app from Microsoft Store