Updating apps on Windows 11 can sometimes be a bit of a hassle, but honestly, it’s pretty straightforward once you know where to look. Just a heads-up: sometimes the Microsoft Store doesn’t wanna play ball, especially after a big Windows update or if your internet’s a bit flaky. But for the most part, these steps will keep your apps fresh and safe.
How to Update Apps on Windows 11
Making sure your apps are up-to-date is dead important. Outdated software can be a security risk or cause strange bugs. Here’s what to do.
Step 1: Open the Microsoft Store
Hit the Start button and find the Microsoft Store icon — it’s usually pinned down the bottom or you can search for it. Sometimes the Store doesn’t open straight away, so if it’s hanging, just try closing it and giving it another go, or restart your PC. Usually that sorts it out.
The Store is where all the magic (and updates) happen, so it’s handy knowing how to get in quick. You can also right-click the icon and choose Pin to Start for easy access next time.
Step 2: Head to the Library
In the Store, look at the bottom menu and click on Library. That’s where your installed apps sit, waiting for updates. If it’s not showing or not updating, try clicking the Check for updates button on the Library page. In some versions, it’s a little link at the top right that says Get updates. On others, just hit the Download and Install buttons if any updates are available.
This step’s important because sometimes the Store forgets to check for updates unless prompted, which can be frustrating.
Step 3: Check for updates
Click the Get updates button. The Store will scan everything you’ve got installed for updates. Might take a second or two, especially if your system or Store is feeling a bit sluggish.
If no updates show up, maybe everything’s current, or the Store had a hiccup. Either way, it’s a good idea to do this every now and then—staying on top of security patches and new features. On my PC, I’ve seen it fail once and then work fine after rebooting and trying again.
Step 4: Let it do its thing
Once updates start downloading, just let ‘em run. Windows 11 takes care of it quietly in the background. Sometimes, if apps are open during an update, it’ll ask you to restart the app or the system. I’ve had it work without a reboot, and other times I had to close everything manually before the updates finished. No idea why, but that’s Windows for you.
Step 5: Restart your apps
Once all’s done, restart any apps you’ve updated. Weirdly, even if you close an app, it might still run some background stuff that won’t fully update until you reboot or fully close them. It’s a pain, but the best way to be sure everything’s up to date.
For a quick tip: press Alt + F4 while the app is in focus or use Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) to force close if needed.
Additional notes: Make sure your Windows 11 itself is fully up-to-date, as some app issues come from system bugs. Head over to Settings > Windows Update and check for updates. Also, turning on automatic updates in the Store settings can save you some hassle—just ensure your connection is solid so downloads aren’t interrupted.
Tips for Updating Apps on Windows 11
- Check for updates regularly, especially if apps aren’t acting right or missing features.
- Turning on automatic updates is a good idea—go to Settings > Apps > Microsoft Store and switch on Update apps automatically.
- Keep your Windows itself up-to-date to avoid weird bugs or incompatibilities. Check out Settings > Windows Update.
- If an app just won’t update, try rebooting your PC or signing out and signing back in—sometimes that does the trick.
- Use a stable internet connection—Wi-Fi or Ethernet—so partial downloads or corrupt installs are less likely.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I check for app updates?
Probably once a week, especially for apps you use daily. It’s good practice, and it helps patch security holes before the baddies exploit bugs.
Can I set apps to update automatically?
Yep, inside the Store’s settings, toggle Update apps automatically. That way, it does the hard graft while you get on with other stuff.
Why won’t my apps update even after trying?
Could be a dodgy internet connection or the Store acting up. Try closing the Store, restarting your PC, or checking for Windows updates. Sometimes clearing the Store cache helps too: open PowerShell as admin and run wsreset.exe. No harm giving that a go.
Are updates risky?
Usually it’s safe, but it’s smart to back up important stuff just in case. Sometimes updates cause conflicts or bugs, especially with third-party apps.
Do all apps need updating?
Not always. Critical apps like browsers, security tools, or banking apps should be kept current. Others might not matter as much, but staying updated is generally a safer bet.
Summary of Steps
- Open Microsoft Store
- Head to Library
- Click Get updates
- Let it do its thing
- Restart your apps to be sure
Conclusion
Honestly, keeping your apps up-to-date on Windows 11 isn’t rocket science, but it’s easy to forget or ignore until something goes pear-shaped. Making it part of your routine—whether manually or automatically—keeps things running smoothly and securely. Of course, Windows loves to keep us on our toes, so just keep clicking that Get updates button every now and then—probably alongside your weekly Chrome cache cleanout—and you’re all set. Hope this helps someone save a bit of time or dodging a headache!