For many users, the Microsoft Store is a critical part of the Windows experience, offering access to a wide range of apps, games, and utilities. However, some users encounter a frustrating issue: every time they attempt to sign into the Microsoft Store, the sign-in window opens momentarily and then closes without allowing them to enter credentials. This sign-in loop or disappearing window issue can be maddening, but there are several potential solutions that can help resolve it and restore full store functionality.
Common Symptoms of the Issue
Users experiencing this error typically report the following:
- The Microsoft Store opens normally, but clicking the user icon to sign in causes a login pop-up window to appear briefly before closing.
- No error message is displayed, and the user is returned to the Store main screen.
- Restarting the Store or the computer does not resolve the issue.
Fortunately, a number of troubleshooting steps can fix this peculiar problem. Let’s explore several effective methods.
1. Check for Windows Updates
One of the most common culprits behind Microsoft Store malfunctions is running outdated system software. Ensure that Windows is fully updated:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security.
- Click Check for updates and install any available updates.
After installing updates, restart your PC and try signing into the Microsoft Store again.
2. Reset the Microsoft Store
The Store app itself may have become corrupt or misconfigured. Resetting it can clear glitches without removing installed apps:
- Open Settings > Apps > Apps & features.
- Scroll down and find Microsoft Store.
- Click on it, choose Advanced options, and click Reset.
Try opening the Store again and check if the sign-in window now behaves properly.
3. Clear Microsoft Store Cache
The Store cache may be causing conflicts. To clear it:
- Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
- Type
wsreset.exeand press Enter.
A command prompt will open briefly and then the Store will relaunch. Attempt to sign in again.
4. Enable Important Services
Several Windows services must be running correctly for the Microsoft Store to work:
- Press Windows + R and type
services.msc. - Ensure these services are set to Automatic and are running:
- Windows Update
- Windows License Manager Service
- Cryptographic Services
- Microsoft Store Install Service
Right-click each and choose Start if they’re not currently active, then attempt to sign in again.
5. Re-register Microsoft Store
If the Microsoft Store is misconfigured at a deeper level, re-registering it via PowerShell can help:
- Right-click the Start menu and select Windows PowerShell (Admin).
- Enter the following command and press Enter:
Get-AppxPackage -allusers Microsoft.WindowsStore | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"}Once this process completes, restart your PC and test the Store sign-in process.
6. Disable Third-Party Antivirus or System Cleaner Apps
Some antivirus programs or system optimization tools may interfere with the Microsoft Store’s sign-in components. Temporarily disable any third-party tools, especially those by vendors like Avast, AVG, or CCleaner. Once disabled, open the Microsoft Store and try to sign in.
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7. Run the Windows Store Troubleshooter
Windows comes with a built-in troubleshooter specifically designed for handling Microsoft Store issues:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
- Click on Additional troubleshooters.
- Find and run the Windows Store Apps troubleshooter.
Let the tool run and apply the recommended fixes.
8. Create a New User Profile
If the issue persists, the problem may be tied to your Windows user profile. Creating a new profile can determine if that’s the case:
- Go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users.
- Click Add someone else to this PC and follow the prompts to create a local or Microsoft account.
- Log in with the new account and try accessing the Microsoft Store.
9. Use System File Checker
Corrupt system files can cause unexpected app behavior. System File Checker (SFC) can identify and repair them:
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Type
sfc /scannowand press Enter. - Let the scan complete — this may take several minutes.
If problems are found and fixed, restart your PC and try signing in again.
10. Perform an In-place Repair Install
If all else fails, perform a repair install using the Windows Media Creation Tool. This reinstalls Windows without removing apps or data:
- Download the tool from Microsoft’s official website.
- Launch it and select Upgrade this PC now.
- Follow the prompts and choose to keep personal files and apps.
This method often corrects deep system-level issues that interfere with apps like the Microsoft Store.
FAQ
Why does the Microsoft Store sign-in window close immediately?
This usually indicates a problem with the Store’s installation, corrupted cache, conflicting software, or user profile corruption. It can also occur if required Windows services are not running.
Is this issue related to a specific Windows update?
Sometimes a buggy Windows update may lead to this problem. However, most of the time, it’s due to local system issues rather than a global update failure.
Can I reinstall the Microsoft Store?
Yes, using PowerShell, you can re-register the Microsoft Store without doing a full OS reinstall.
Will resetting the Microsoft Store delete my apps?
No. Resetting the Microsoft Store will clear app data and cache but will not remove your installed applications.
What happens during a repair install of Windows?
A repair install refreshes the operating system core files and components without deleting your apps or personal data. It’s a useful last resort if other methods fail.
By methodically working through the troubleshooting steps outlined above, most users can restore Microsoft Store functionality and resolve the issue of the expanding and disappearing sign-in window. Patience and precision in following each fix will yield the best results.