5 Fixes for Windows Error Code 0x80072f8f

Windows 10 and 11 users have severally reported that Windows error code 0x80072f8f pops up when they use the Microsoft store. This error typically comes up when a user tries to install apps and games from the store. Other times you may also experience this error when you try to activate or update Windows.

One possible reason for this error is your computer’s incorrect date and time. Another possibility is that Windows is having difficulty connecting to the online activation service and cannot verify your product key. This article will guide you through easy solutions to get this problem in the past.

1. Re-register DLL Files

Re-registering DLL files is a good fix that can sometimes fix the error code 0x80072f8f by scanning for missing or corrupted DLL files and then registering them again. Follow the steps below to re-register DLL files.

1. Press the Windows and S keys at once, type cmd, and click Run as administrator to start the Command Prompt with administrator privileges.
   
2. Once the User Account Control prompts you, select Yes to continue.
   
3. When Command Prompt displays, enter the following commands one after the other into the prompt and hit the Enter key after each command to re-register DLL files.
   regsvr32 softpub.dll /s
regsvr32 wintrust.dll /s
regsvr32 initpki.dll /s
regsvr32 mssip32.dll /s
   
4. Finally, restart your computer to implement repairs.

2. Set Correct Date and Time

Windows uses the date and time on your computer to verify your product key and communicate with the Microsoft activation servers. If your computer’s date and time are incorrect, it can generate problems with activation and verification. Follow the steps below to set your date and time.

1. Open Settings by holding the Windows and I keys simultaneously, click Time & Language and select Date & Time.
   
2. If the time and/or date is wrong and the Change button next to Set the date and time manually is greyed out, turn the Set the time automatically switch off and click the Change button again.
   
3. Then, set the Date and Time to the correct one and click the Change button.
   
4. Finally, check if this fixes the problem.

3. Activate Windows

Activating Windows tells Microsoft you have a genuine copy of the operating system. Otherwise, Microsoft will interpret it as using an unlicensed copy of Windows. Activate Windows as shown below.

1. Press the Windows and S keys simultaneously, enter slui.exe in the search field, and tap Enter to open the Activation window.
   
2. When it opens, enter your key in the Product key field, click Next, and follow on-screen instructions.
   

4. Perform Windows Store Apps troubleshooter

If your Microsoft store is not opening, downloading apps, or showing error messages, you can perform a Microsoft Store troubleshooter. You may also use this method if you have a problematic app or the Microsoft Store app is malfunctioning. Use the steps below.

1. Press the Windows + I keys simultaneously to open Settings and click Troubleshoot under System.
   
2. Then, select Other trouble-shooters.
   
3. Next, click on the Run next to Windows Store Apps.
   

5. Reinstall Microsoft Store App

This fix is useful if your Microsoft Store app is malfunctioning or you have a problem with a specific app. Follow the steps below.

1. Press the Windows + S keys simultaneously, enter powershell in the search field, and click Run as administrator.
   
2. In the console, enter the code below and tap Enter:
   Get-AppXPackage WindowsStore -AllUsers | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"}
   
3. Finally, restart your system.

FAQs on Windows Error Code 0x80072f8f

1. What is error 0x80072f8f office activation?
   Several cases show that error 0x80072f8f occurs when the computer’s Date and Time settings are incorrect. This issue can be due to changes in the time zone during travel or your device being inactive for too long due to the complete battery drain.
2. What is error code 0x80072F8F 0x00000000?
   This error also occurs when your system date and time are incorrect. It similarly causes issues with the verification of the product keys. It may also cause problems with online activation services.
3. What does “0x80072F8F content decoding has failed” mean?
   The error 0x80072F8F ERROR_CONTENT_DECODING_FAILED means that the internet decoding failed, and restoring any timestamp between the Windows update and the update server is impossible.
4. What is error code 0X80072F8F 0x200000 while installing Windows 10?
   This error may occur due to critical services not starting correctly, application conflicts, and interference from third-party software.
5. What is Windows Update error 0x80072F8F Server 2016?
   The error code 0x80072F8F (“ERROR_INTERNET_DECODING_FAILED”) signifies that the Internet decoding has failed. Specifically, a timestamp can no longer be reconciled between Windows Update and the update server.
6. What is error code 0x80072F8F on Xbox?
   The error code 0x80072f8f appears if connecting to Xbox Live fails. Other common Xbox errors include 0x87de07d1 error, 0x80073cfc error, 0x87e0000d error, and 0x87dd0003 error.

In conclusion, these five fixes for Windows Error Code 0x80072f8f can help users effectively address the underlying causes of this error and restore the correct functionality to their Windows systems. We also recommend checking for driver and OS updates or scanning for malware.

Implement these fixes systematically or seek further assistance if you are having issues. With persistence and proper troubleshooting, you can overcome Error Code 0x80072f8f and enjoy a smooth and error-free Windows experience.