Cross Device Experience Host Won’t Install on Windows 11 – 5 Fixes to Try

Quick Tips

• The Cross Device Experience Host should install automatically when mobile access is granted.
• If not, you can try installing manually through Command Prompt.
• You can also try troubleshooting or resetting the cache of the Microsoft Store.
• If the app is installed but not working, you can repair or reset it.

The Cross Device Experience Host is a Microsoft feature that supports Windows’ cross-device and mobile-device connectivity. If, however, you can’t even get to that stage – if the Cross Device Experience Host won’t install – then this article will provide five troubleshooters to help you out.

How Is the Experience Host Usually Installed?

In a perfect scenario, installing Cross Device Experience Host involves little more than the flick of a switch. The Host itself is downloaded and installed when users activate “Allow this PC to access your mobile devices” in Settings. It’ll be downloaded and installed from the Microsoft Store. If it isn’t doing that, we’ve got some backup plans.

5 Fixes for Cross Device Experience Host Won’t Install

If you’re having trouble installing the Host the conventional way, try the workarounds and fixes below. Before you start, be sure to close all instances of the Experience Host via Task Manager.

Install via Command Prompt

An easy way to install the Host is through the simple interface of Command Prompt. You can force the installation with the right command. Here’s what to do:

Step 1. Open the Run Dialog (Win + R) and type “cmd” before hitting (Ctrl + Shift + Enter) to run as Admin.

Step 2. In Command Prompt, type in: “winget install 9NTXGKQ8P7N0” and hit “Enter.” Windows will retrieve and install the Experience Host.

Step 3. Let the app install. When you see a “successfully installed” message, you should be good to go. If the app shows as already installed, or a problem is encountered, then you’ll need another solution.

Clear the Store Cache

The Microsoft Store cache can be corrupted over time and cause problems with updates and installations. A quick resetting of the cache might be the solution you need. Here’s what to do:

Step 1. Open the “Run” dialog (Win + R).

Step 2. Type in “wsreset.exe” and hit “OK.”

Step 3. Microsoft Store will reset, as will its cache. Restart your machine to finalize and try again.

Check the Connected Devices Platform Service

One of the services Experience Host relies on is the Connected Devices Platform Service. If it isn’t enabled, it may not start. Here’s how to check:

Step 1. Open the Run Dialog (Win + R) and type “services.msc” and click “OK.”

Step 2. In Services, scroll down to “Connected Devices Platform Service” and right-click it.

Step 3. If the service isn’t running, select “Start” to do so.

Run the Store Troubleshooter

Windows has troubleshooters for most major features, including the Store. If you suspect it’s to blame, you can try the troubleshooter. Here’s how:

Step 1. Open “Settings” (Win + I) and click “System.”

Step 2. Scroll down to “Troubleshoot” and click it.

Step 3. Click “Other troubleshooters.”

Step 4. Scroll down and click “Run” next to “Windows Store Apps” and let the process run.

Repair and Reset the Host

For many app problems, you have the option to Repair problems or Reset the app entirely. It’s good to try in that order, as Reset will clear all data and start with a clean slate. If the Experience Host is installed but not working correctly, this might help. Here’s what to do:

Step 1. Open “Settings” (Win + I) and click “Apps” in the sidebar.

Step 2. Click “Installed apps.”

Step 3. Navigate to “Cross Device Experience Host” and click the three dots next to it.

Step 4. Select “Advanced Options.”

Step 5. Click “Repair” and test the feature. If that doesn’t work, return to the same menu and select “Reset.”