Solution to error 0x80073D21 on Xbox

If you have arrived here it is surely because you are experiencing the annoying error 0x80073D21 on Xbox or Windows, that message that appears just when you try to install or update some application or game, usually from Microsoft Store or Xbox ecosystem.

Understanding what this error means, why it appears, and the most effective ways to resolve it can save you time, frustration, and, most importantly, hours of searching through forums or official websites where information is often scattered and unclear. In this article, we offer a comprehensive overview of the most common errors. some solutions.

What exactly is error 0x80073D21 on Xbox and when does it usually appear?

El error code 0x80073D21 on Xbox is one of those errors related to installing or deploying UWP apps (Universal Windows Platform), present on both Windows and Mac PCs Xbox consoles. Its appearance is usually due to problems with the storage policies and permissions defined in the operating system, especially when you try to install applications or games on a drive other than the primary system drive.

It is common to find it when the default location to save applications does not correspond to the main disk, or when there are policy restrictions (in companies, managed computers or accounts with limited permissions) that prevent installation outside the system drive (usually the C: drive).

Main causes associated with error 0x80073D21

Why does error 0x80073D21 occur on Xbox on Windows? Here are some of the main reasons:

• Non-default storage locationIf you've installed new drives, changed settings for where apps are saved, or tried to install a game on an external hard drive, you may encounter this error.
• Security policies on managed computers: Corporate computers or managed accounts may have additional restrictions to prevent software installation outside of the primary drive.
• Corrupt or inconsistent configurations after updates: Major Windows updates may reset or corrupt internal preferences and policies.
• Profile errors or limited user accounts: Temporary profiles, restricted accounts, or cases where sufficient permissions have not been granted can be triggers for the error.

Comparison with other related errors

Within the scope of installing UWP packages and games in the Microsoft ecosystem, there are similar error codes which can easily be confused with 0x80073D21. Some examples are:

• 0x80073CF4: Indicates that there is not enough disk space.
• 0x80073CFD: Appears when an installation prerequisite is missing.
• 0x80073CF3: Error due to dependency or validation conflicts.
• 0x80073D22: Closely related, this refers to a machine-wide policy that restricts installation outside the system volume.

However, the 0x80073D21 specifically targets a package family restriction which only allows installation on the main disk.

Practical solutions to error 0x80073D21 on Xbox and Windows

Now we get to the point: How can you permanently resolve this error? Here are all the options reviewed and organized step by step. Remember, it's important to start with the simplest solutions before moving on to more profound changes.

Change the default save location

The main cause of the error is usually that the The default drive for new installations is not the system disk.. To modify it:

1. Accede to Configuration (Windows key + I).
2. Go to System and then to Storage.
3. Click on Change where new content is saved.
4. In the option New applications will be saved in, select the primary drive or C: drive.
5. Save the changes and restart your computer just in case.

This simple change usually unlocks the installation and allows you to download apps and games without restrictions.

Check and modify security policies

In corporate environments, managed teams, or if you are an advanced user, there may be GPO (Group Policies) or policies that restrict where applications can be installed. To review or modify them:

1. Open the Group Policy Editor (gpedit.msc) as administrator.
2. Go to Equipment setup -> Administrative Templates -> Windows components -> Application Installer.
3. Check if any restrictions are enabled and adjust them to allow installation on the head unit.
4. If the computer belongs to an organization, you may need to contact your system administrator.

Remember GPO changes may require a restart or run the command gpupdate / force to be applied correctly.

Additional solutions and key checks

• Restart the device after configuration changes: Although it may sound basic, many errors are resolved simply by restarting and applying the new settings.
• Update Windows and Microsoft Store: Make sure you have the latest version installed. The store and operating system are constantly fixing bugs and improving compatibility.
• Check system integrity: Use commands like sfc / scannow o DISM / Online / Cleanup Image / RestoreHealth from the administrator terminal to repair possible system corruption.
• Clear the Microsoft Store cache: Execute wsreset.exe to clear the cache and force the store to refresh.
• Create a new user profile: Sometimes corrupted profiles block installations. Try creating a new user and installing from there.

Official documentation and limitations of the proposed solutions

Microsoft always recommends keeping the default storage on the system unit. In addition, it warns that some UWP apps and Xbox titles They require certain security and system protection features that are only guaranteed if they reside on the main unit.

If after following all these steps you are still encountering difficulties, your equipment may be under a corporate policy or advanced settings that prevents changing the default locations. In these cases, the only solution is to contact your system administrator or, if the computer is personal, restore the settings to factory settings (reinstall Windows) as a last resort.

Experiences and tips shared by users on technical forums

While searching forums like Reddit and various technical communities, many users have shared their experiences with error 0x80073D21:

• Make sure to close all open applications before attempting to install updates, as sometimes files in use block the process.
• Do not force external installations using unofficial methodsSome people try to modify paths from the Windows Registry or with third-party tools. This may work in some cases, but it often leads to stability issues or even corrupts the operating system installation.
• Check that there are no additional restrictions in the firewall or antivirus that could be interfering with the installation of applications from the Store.
• Use accounts with administrator permissions whenever possible, especially when making changes to storage policies.

What to do if the error persists after following all the solutions?

If after changing storage settings, checking security policies, updating your system, and trying a new user you still receive the message 0x80073D21, there may be a problem. deeper problem in the Windows Registry or system policy settings. In these cases, the following actions may help:

• repair windows: Use the Windows Automatic Repair feature from the Advanced Boot Options.
• Restore default policy values: If you have advanced knowledge, you can reset group policies to their original values ​​using the command secedit / configure / cfg% windir% \ inf \ defltbase.inf / db defltbase.sdb / verbose.
• Contact MicrosoftWhen all else fails, official technical support may be the best option, especially if the equipment is under warranty or in a business environment.

Recommendations to avoid similar future mistakes

• Keep your operating system and the Microsoft Store up to date, especially if you're someone who tries out new features or installs a lot of games and apps from the Store.
• Avoid manually modifying installation paths or moving apps out of the Store If you don't have advanced experience, these actions are often a source of conflict.
• Take regular backups of your data, especially before making changes to advanced settings or major updates.
• Use external and secondary drives only for personal files or games whose own configuration allows them to be moved manually after the initial installation.

It is important to note that error 0x80073D21 on Xbox and Windows can usually be solved by using the review and adjustment of the default storage settings and, occasionally, with intervention in group policies or user permissions. In more complex scenarios, detailed information, the proper use of diagnostic tools, and, if necessary, consulting technical support, guarantee the resolution of this and other errors arising from UWP package management on Windows and Xbox.