download stuck in "preparing to download" queue on Microsoft Store

Follow these steps in order on Windows 11 to resolve Microsoft Store downloads stuck at “Preparing to download. Queued” for the Minecraft Launcher:

1. Reset the Microsoft Store cache again (correct method)
   1. Press Windows logo key + R.
   2. Type wsreset.exe and select OK.
   3. A blank Command Prompt opens, then closes after a few seconds, and Microsoft Store opens automatically.
   4. In Store, confirm signed in with the same Microsoft account used to buy Minecraft.
2. Make sure Windows and Microsoft Store are fully updated
   1. Go to Start > Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates and install all available updates.
   2. Open Microsoft Store.
   3. Select Library > Get updates and let Store update itself and other apps.
   4. After updates finish, try installing Minecraft Launcher again from Library or by searching it in Store.
3. Run the Windows Store Apps troubleshooter
   1. Open Settings.
   2. Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters (or equivalent Troubleshoot page).
   3. Find Windows Store Apps and select Run.
   4. Apply any fixes it suggests, then retry the download.
4. Check that Microsoft Store is not blocked and can download updates
   If this is a managed device (school/work), Store might be restricted by policy or firewall:
   • Confirm that Microsoft Store opens normally and does not show a message that it is disabled by your organization.
   • If on a corporate/school network, contact the administrator to ensure Store and Windows Update endpoints are not blocked, as Store needs them to download and update apps.
5. Try installing via Windows Package Manager (winget)
   If Store UI is stuck but backend works, use winget:
   1. Open Windows Terminal or PowerShell (non‑elevated).
   2. Run:

            winget search "Minecraft Launcher"
      

   3. From the results, note the exact name or ID, then run:

            winget install "Minecraft Launcher"
      

   4. Wait for the command to complete and then launch Minecraft from Start.
6. Check for third‑party blockers (AV/VPN/proxy)
   From similar Store download issues:
   • Temporarily disable or uninstall any third‑party antivirus, security suite, or VPN, then retry the download.
   • If downloads work after disabling, adjust or replace that software.
7. Reinstall from Store Library
   1. Open Microsoft Store.
   2. Go to Library.
   3. Find Minecraft Launcher in the list and select Install.
      This ensures the purchase is recognized and the correct package is pulled.

If the download still never starts after these steps and other Store apps also fail to download, capture screenshots and contact Microsoft Support, or request a refund if within the refund window.

References:

• Troubleshoot Microsoft Store app download failures
• Microsoft Store doesn't open
• Fix problems with apps from Microsoft Store
• Get trusted apps and games from Microsoft Store on Windows
• I can't find or install an app from Microsoft Store
• xbox app gets stuck on same part of download everytime ever since i uninstalled it - Microsoft Q&A
• Microsoft Store not working – unable to download or update any apps - Microsoft Q&A
• Having internet, but not being able to download anything - Microsoft Q&A