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Fix: Mac App Store not loading

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Photo: Farknot Architect / Shutterstock.com

The Mac App Store is an essential part of the macOS ecosystem, providing users access to various applications, games, and software updates. However, sometimes users may encounter a frustrating issue where the App Store fails to load properly, leaving them unable to access their desired apps or updates. This problem can occur for various reasons, such as network issues, software glitches, or outdated settings.

In this article, we have discussed the causes of the Mac App Store not loading and a few ways to help you fix the issue.


What are the causes of the Mac App Store not loading issue?

We have mentioned below some of the reasons that might b causing issues while loading the Mac App Store.

  • Poor internet connection.
  • Server outage.
  • Outdated software.
  • Incorrect Date and time settings.
  • Problems with the Apple ID.

Also read: How to forget a WiFi network on Mac?


How to fix the issue?

We have explained a few methods below to resolve the Mac App Store not loading issue.

Check the Apple system server status

Maybe there’s a problem with Apple’s system. If that’s the case, the Apple Store might not work for a little while until their system starts working again. Go to the system status page to see if the Mac App Store works now.


Check the internet connection

Updating or downloading any app on your Mac requires a stable internet connection. Make sure your Mac is connected to the internet. If needed, restart the WiFi to reset the connection, or you can use an Ethernet cable to connect it to your Mac directly.

Also read: How to change your Macbook’s name?


Check for updates

It is possible you are using an outdated version of macOS, which is why you are facing problems while trying to open the app store. To check for updates, follow the steps below.

Step 1: Click on the Apple menu, then click on the System Settings option in the dropdown menu.

Step 2: In system settings, click on the General option in the sidebar and then click on the Software Update option on the right.

Step 3: If you have any available macOS updates, install them.


Check the date and time

If the date and time on your computer are incorrect, there might be a mismatch between your Mac and the Apple server. This difference can prevent the App Store from downloading and updating apps and cause the Mac app store not loading issue. To check the date and time, follow the steps below.

Step 1: Click on the Apple menu, then click on the System Settings option in the dropdown menu.

Step 2: In settings, click on the General option in the sidebar and then on the right side, click on Date & Time option.

Step 3: Turn the toggle on beside Set time and date automatically, and select the server address to time.apple.com. Lastly, turn the toggle on beside the Set time zone automatically using your current location.

Also read: Airpods not connecting to Macbook: Quick Fix


Force quit the app store and restart it

If the App Store app is not working properly, it could be due to a temporary software problem. Forcing the App Store to close and open it again can often fix the issue and make it work correctly. To force close the app, follow the steps below.

Step 1: Click on the Apple menu, then click on the Force Quit option in the dropdown menu.

Step 2: Select the app store and click the Force Quit button.

We have used different apps to show the steps to force quit; if an app store is open and stuck on your Mac, you will see it in the force quit screen.
Click here to know more about how to force quit on Mac

Sign out of Apple ID

Many users have resolved this issue by signing out of their Apple ID and then signing back in. To do that, follow the steps below.

Step 1: Click on the Apple menu, then click on the System Settings option in the dropdown menu.

Step 2: Click on Apple ID and Sign Out. Then sign in again.

Also read: Why is there an orange spot on Macbook screen?

Akash Singh

Akash Singh

Akash is a law graduate who likes to go for bike rides on the weekends soul-searching for answers to his many existential questions. You can contact him here: singhakash95@pm.me

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