Windows 11 - Disable Microsoft Store from Start Menu Search

Windows 11 - Disable Microsoft Store from Start Menu Search

Warning: This method modifies an internal Microsoft Store database and prevents it from being updated by making it read-only. It is unsupported by Microsoft and may permanently impair or completely break Microsoft Store functionality, including future updates and search features. Only use this method if you do not rely on the Microsoft Store and are comfortable restoring the original file or reinstalling the app if problems occur. Creating a backup of store.db before making any changes is strongly recommended.

This tutorial explains how to clear the Microsoft Store search cache and make the database read-only to prevent it from being repopulated.

1. Download DB Browser for SQLite. The x64 .zip version is sufficient.
2. Extract the archive (if necessary) and run DB Browser for SQLite.exe.
3. Open the following SQLite database:

   %LOCALAPPDATA%\Packages\Microsoft.WindowsStore_8wekyb3d8bbwe\LocalState\store.db

4. Open the Execute SQL tab, paste the following query into the editor, and click the ▶ (Execute) button:

   DELETE FROM SearchProducts;

5. Click the 💾 Write Changes button to save the modified database.
6. Make the database read-only by modifying its filesystem permissions:
   1. Right-click store.db and select Properties.
   2. Open the Security tab and click Advanced.
   3. Disable permission inheritance and choose Convert inherited permissions into explicit permissions.
   4. Edit each listed principal and remove the Write permission.

After these changes, the SearchProducts table will remain cleared unless write access to the database is restored.