How to Use the Microsoft Store in Windows

Edited 3 weeks ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team

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The Microsoft Store is a digital distribution platform in Windows that serves as a central hub for discovering, downloading, and managing various applications. Whether you're looking for productivity tools, games, or entertainment apps, the Microsoft Store offers a wide range of software applications that meet different needs and preferences. Using the Store is straightforward, and this guide will walk you through the entire process, providing comprehensive instructions and tips for making the most of this resource in Windows.

Getting started with the Microsoft Store

To start using the Microsoft Store, you'll first need a Windows computer that has an active internet connection. The Microsoft Store comes pre-installed in Windows, so you don't have to worry about installing it separately. Here's how you can launch the Microsoft Store on your Windows device:

1. Click the Start menu, typically located in the lower-left corner of your screen, represented by the Windows icon.
2. Type "Microsoft Store" into the search box. You should see the Microsoft Store app in the search results.
3. Click on the Microsoft Store app icon to open it.

Navigating the Microsoft Store

Once the Microsoft Store opens, you'll find a clean and user-friendly interface that makes it easy to browse and find apps. Here's a description of the main components you'll find in the Microsoft Store:

• Home: The Store's home page shows featured apps, games, and collections. You'll find recommendations and new releases in this section.
• Apps: This tab allows you to explore various applications, ranging from productivity and utilities to entertainment and social networking.
• Games: If you are looking for games, this is the section where you can find and download titles suitable for all age groups.
• Entertainment: This area offers movies, TV shows, and music that can be purchased or rented through the Microsoft Store.
• Library: In the Library, you can view a list of the apps and games you already have, and manage your downloads and updates.

Search for apps and games

If you have a specific app or game in mind, you can use the search function to find it quickly:

1. In the upper right corner of the Microsoft Store there is a search bar represented by a magnifying glass icon. Click on it.
2. Type the name of the app or game you're looking for into the search bar.
3. Press the Enter key on your keyboard or click the magnifying glass to begin the search.
4. Browse the search results, and click on the app or game you were looking for to see more details.

Downloading and installing apps or games

After you find the app or game you like, the next step is to download and install it on your device. Here's how you can do that:

1. Click on the app or game you want to download. You'll be taken to a page with more information about the app, including a description, reviews, and developer information.
2. Look at the price of the app. Some apps are free, while others may require a purchase. If an app is free, you'll see a Get button. If it requires payment, you'll see a Price and a Buy button.
3. To download a free app, click the Get button. For a paid app, click the Buy button and follow the instructions to complete your purchase.
4. Once the app is downloaded it will automatically be installed on your device.
5. You can find your new app under the "Recently Added" section in the Start menu.

Managing your purchases

Managing your purchased apps and games in the Microsoft Store is easy. Follow these steps to access and manage your purchased content:

1. Open the Microsoft Store and click on your profile picture in the upper right corner of the window.
2. Select "My Library" from the dropdown menu. This will take you to a list of all your apps and games.
3. From the Library you can see which apps are installed, view download history, and monitor updates to your apps.
4. If you need to uninstall an app or game, you can do so by selecting the app from the Library and choosing "Uninstall."

Updating apps and games

To ensure that your apps run properly and take advantage of new features, it's important to keep them updated. Here's how you can update your apps and games in the Microsoft Store:

1. Open the Microsoft Store.
2. Click the Library tab in the lower-left corner of the Store window.
3. In the Library, you will see a section called "Updates and Downloads." Here, you can find a list of apps that have updates available.
4. Click the "Get Updates" button, and the Store will automatically begin updating all your installed apps and games.

Set up family and student accounts

The Microsoft Store supports family and student accounts, which allow for better control over app purchases and usage, especially for parents and teachers. Here's how to set up these accounts:

Family accounts:

1. Open Settings on your Windows device by pressing Windows + I.
2. Go to Accounts > Family & other users.
3. Click Add family member to create a child or adult account under your family group.
4. Set permissions and manage family settings online through Microsoft Family Safety.

Student accounts:

1. Educational institutions can provide student accounts that can be used to access the Microsoft Store.
2. Sign in to the Microsoft Store using your student email and password.
3. Look for discounted or free educational tools available specifically for students.

Using filters and categories

The Microsoft Store offers filtering and categorization features to simplify the app and game discovery process. Here's how you can use these options:

1. When browsing apps or games, look for filter options on the page.
2. You can filter the results based on criteria such as price, rating, or genres.
3. Select the filters that best match your search preferences to narrow down your options.
4. The available categories can cover various interests, such as productivity, health and fitness, communication, etc.

Resolving Microsoft account issues

To use the Microsoft Store, you must sign in with a Microsoft account. If you encounter problems, follow these troubleshooting steps:

1. If you can't sign in, make sure your credentials are typed correctly and your internet connection is stable.
2. If you forgot your password, reset it by visiting the Microsoft account recovery page.
3. Check the status of Microsoft services online to verify any ongoing outages that might be affecting login requests.

Using promotional codes and offers

The Microsoft Store occasionally offers promotions and discount codes that can be applied when purchasing apps or games. Here's how to use them:

1. During the checkout process, there may be an option to enter a promotional code.
2. The typed code should be input into the specified field, and then click Apply.
3. Check that the discount has been applied successfully before proceeding with the purchase.

Understanding app permissions and privacy

Many apps ask for permission to access other functionalities on your device. Granting the proper permissions ensures the app works correctly, but you need to be aware of what information is being shared. Here's what you need to know:

1. When an app asks for permission, a dialog box will appear explaining the access it requires, such as access to your location, contacts, etc.
2. You have the option to allow or deny these permissions and can change them later through your device's settings.
3. To adjust permissions for apps, go to Settings > Privacy. Go to the feature you want to control access to, and adjust the permissions accordingly.

Using the Microsoft Store on multiple devices

With your Microsoft account, you can use the same Store purchases on multiple Windows devices. Here's how it works:

1. Make sure you're signed in with a Microsoft account on all your devices.
2. Download previously purchased apps from the Library section in the Microsoft Store on each device.
3. Manage devices registered under your Microsoft account through the Microsoft account website to monitor where apps are installed and used.

Conclusion

The Microsoft Store is a versatile and resourceful platform for Windows users that offers a wide range of apps, games, and entertainment options. Understanding the various features and functionalities it offers can improve your user experience and allow you to get the most out of your device.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you will be able to effectively navigate, search, download, and manage your apps and games. We hope this comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge to explore the digital marketplace readily available at your fingertips.

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