As a seasoned Windows expert with years of hands-on experience optimizing PCs for performance and usability, I've honed these practical tips for the Microsoft Store (formerly Windows Store) on Windows 10. It's your central hub for discovering, downloading, and updating apps and games—much like mobile app stores.
These straightforward strategies will streamline your experience. Let's jump in.
By default, Microsoft Store apps install to your C: drive alongside Windows. For better space management, privacy, or security—especially with large games—redirect them to another drive. Note: The Store won't warn you of low space until downloads fail midway, which is frustrating.
Press Windows key + I to open Settings, then select System.
In Storage (left sidebar), click "Change where new content is saved."
Set your preferred drive for new apps. This won't move existing ones, but you can adjust other file types too.
Unlike traditional web downloads requiring EXE files, the Store simplifies everything. Search for an app or game, then click Get to start.
If already installed, it shows Launch to open directly.
For paid items, view the price in your currency, buy, add to cart/wishlist, or gift. You can't uninstall directly from the Store, though.
Access Store apps easily via Start menu search, or pin them to the taskbar/Start for quick launch—no searching needed. For ultimate convenience, use the Store's Launch button.
Open Settings (Windows + I) and go to Apps.
Search for the app, then uninstall or select Advanced options.
Use Move to relocate it. Under advanced: End task (if stuck), Reset (clears cache for fresh start), or Uninstall.
Reset before reinstalling via the Store for a clean setup—old data often causes issues.
The Store doesn't handle friends directly (limit: 1,000 on Xbox). Use Xbox.com instead. Check guides for Xbox One or app details.
Visit Xbox.com.
Store apps use packages, not EXE installers. To find the executable: Open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc), go to Details, right-click the app.exe, and select Open file location. Note: Works inconsistently.
These tips unlock the Microsoft Store's full potential on Windows 10 for seamless app management.
Next: Windows app not showing in Start menu? Here's how to fix it.
