When a Microsoft download won’t start (or keeps failing), it’s usually one of three things: a temporary network hiccup, not enough free space, or a security setting blocking the file.

Toolbox and stalled progress wheel metaphor for download issues

Start with the fastest fix below and stop as soon as it works.

Before you change anything: note what you’re downloading (Microsoft Store app, Office update, OneDrive file, Edge download, Windows update). The right fix depends on the source.

1. The 60-second reset (works surprisingly often)

Do these in order:

  • Pause and resume the download once.
  • Switch networks (Wi‑Fi to mobile hotspot, or a different Wi‑Fi). If it works on the other network, your original network is the culprit.
  • Restart the device (full restart, not just sleep).
  • Try again in a different Microsoft surface: if you used Edge, try another browser; if you used Microsoft Store, try downloading from the web (or vice versa).

If it starts after any step, you’re done.

2. Check storage space (and the “hidden” space issue)

A download can fail even when it looks like you have space—because the system also needs working room for temporary files.

  • Make 2–5 GB free for smaller downloads; 10+ GB for large apps/updates.
  • Empty the recycle/trash and clear large temporary files if your OS offers that tool.
  • If you’re saving to an external drive, try saving to internal storage first.

Then retry the download once.

3. If the Microsoft Store download is stuck: clear Store cache

Store cache reset concept with bag and refresh symbol

Microsoft Store downloads can hang when the Store cache or its download queue is corrupted.

  • Windows: run wsreset (it resets Microsoft Store cache). After it completes, open Store and retry.
  • Also try: in Store, cancel the stuck download, close the Store app, reopen, and start again.

If Store still won’t download anything, move on to the network/security steps below.

4. If it’s an Office/Windows update download: disable VPN/proxy temporarily

Updates often use system services that don’t behave well with VPNs, proxies, or “secure DNS” setups.

  • Turn off VPN (or try split tunneling so Microsoft services bypass it).
  • If you use a proxy at work/school, test on a personal network if possible.
  • Retry the download once, then re-enable your VPN/proxy.

If disabling the VPN fixes it, your best long-term fix is to change VPN settings rather than leaving it off.

5. Fix “download blocked” issues (without weakening your security)

Shield blocking a download arrow into a tray

If downloads start but get blocked, or instantly fail with a security message, don’t immediately disable protection. Narrow down what’s blocking it.

  • Try a different file type from the same source (for example, a PDF vs an EXE). If only executables fail, your security layer is likely blocking “risky” types.
  • Check browser download settings (Edge/Chrome/Firefox) for blocked downloads, then explicitly allow the specific file if you trust it.
  • Windows Security / antivirus: look at recent protection history/quarantine logs to see if the file was blocked, then restore/allow only if you’re confident it’s legitimate.
  • SmartScreen/reputation warnings: if it’s a Microsoft installer from a known Microsoft domain, it should pass signature checks—if it doesn’t, stop and re-download from an official Microsoft page.

If you’re not 100% sure the file is legitimate, don’t force-allow it. Instead, find the same download from an official Microsoft source.

6. Try a “clean path” download (changes where it saves and removes bad state)

This helps when a download keeps failing at the same percentage.

  • Change the download location (save to Desktop or Downloads on internal storage).
  • Rename the file (especially if it’s a repeat download with “(1)” “(2)” versions).
  • Clear the browser download list and retry (some browsers keep a stuck entry that interferes).

Then download again from a fresh link (avoid resuming an old one if it repeatedly corrupts).

7. Advanced network checks (DNS, firewall, and time)

If nothing above works, the failure may be happening before the download even begins (name resolution, TLS validation, or filtering).

  • Check date/time on the device (set to automatic). Incorrect time can break secure connections and make downloads fail.
  • Try a different DNS (temporarily): for example, your ISP DNS vs a public DNS. If that fixes it, your original DNS may be filtering or misrouting Microsoft endpoints.
  • Firewall/content filter: on managed networks (work/school), downloads from Store/Office/Windows Update may be blocked. Testing on a personal hotspot is the quickest proof.

If it works on hotspot but not on your main Wi‑Fi, focus on router/firewall/DNS rather than the Microsoft app.

Final thoughts

The fastest wins are usually: restart + change networks + free space. If it’s Microsoft Store, clearing the Store cache is the next best bet.

If downloads only fail on one network, treat it as a network/DNS/filtering problem and you’ll save a lot of time chasing app settings.