The most common cause is the installation of Windows App SDK version 1.6.2, which introduced a critical bug affecting app removals on Windows 10. Additionally, here’s detailed information about the causes. Now that we’ve reviewed the main causes, let’s walk you through some proven fixes you can try to solve this error.
1. Run the Windows Store Troubleshooter
If you only see this error when uninstalling UWP (Universal Windows Platform) apps, it could be due to a unique issue with the Windows Store. Running the Windows Store Apps troubleshooter can help find and automatically fix problems. This solution restores proper Microsoft Store operation for many people and lets you uninstall UWP apps without seeing Error 0x80073CFA.
2. Run SFC and DISM
Corrupted system or Windows update files can cause update failures. Running the System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) utilities can help repair and restore corrupted files. SFC scans for and replaces corrupted system files, while DISM can fix system issues and add updates or drivers.
3. Make sure Windows is up to Date
Microsoft has already released updates to fix this problem on both Windows 10 and 11. So before moving on to advanced fixes, be sure you’ve installed all Windows updates. If your system is missing an important Windows Update component, you might not be able to uninstall UWP apps.
4. Make sure Microsoft Store is up to Date
An outdated Microsoft Store app can block some uninstall actions, especially for system-related UWP apps. Make sure your Store app is updated.
5. Reset the Windows Store Cache
Windows Store errors can be caused by corrupted files in the cache folder. Clearing the cache using wsreset.exe often helps. Note: Corrupted cache is a common cause often overlooked. Many Windows 11 users found that resetting the entire Windows Store component solved the problem.
6. Use an Admin Account
If your Windows account does not have administrator privileges, you may run into Error 0x80073CFA. Creating a new admin account can help you bypass this issue. This problem is more common if your admin account was transferred from a previous Windows version. You can make a new admin account using the Settings app (Windows 10/11) or with Command Prompt (all Windows versions).
6.1. Create a New Admin Account in Settings
6.2. Create a New Admin Account with Command Prompt
7. Delete the Demo Version of the Game (if applicable)
If this error appears when trying to uninstall a demo of a game you already own, it’s likely due to a glitch in the Microsoft Store.
8. Remove Windows 10 Packages via PowerShell (if applicable)
If you see this error while trying to uninstall Windows 10 packages from a Windows 11 device using PowerShell, make sure to use the correct commands.
9. Perform a Repair Install or Clean Install
If none of the above solutions work, it might be time to fully replace the affected system files. You have two main options:
Repair Install (In-place Upgrade) – This keeps your personal files, settings, and apps, and replaces only system files.Clean Install – This erases everything and reinstalls Windows from scratch. Choose this if you want a completely fresh start, but remember, all personal data will be removed.
