Microsoft apps cannot connect to the internet

Microsoft Edge, Windows Store, and Cortana, as well as most Microsoft apps, cannot connect to the internet.

When I try to open the Windows Store it will not open and I get an Error message, 0x80072EE7.

When I try to use Edge I get an error message that says, “This website could not be found.
Error Code: INET_E_RESOURCE_NOT_FOUND.

It seems that the Microsoft apps that require the internet will not open: Weather, Skype, Solitaire Collection, Xbox, Movies & TV, OneNote, etc.

I also am unable to sign into my Microsoft Account from my computer (only a Local Account).

When I click on the Windows button and select My Account (button with my picture) it takes me to “Settings” where it indicates that I am signed into a Local Account. When I click on the link that says, “Sign into Microsoft Account instead” I get an error message that says, “Something went wrong.”

There is nothing wrong with my Internet connection. When using Google Chrome I can surf the Internet normally.

I have a notebook computer signed into my same Microsoft Account and it works normally.

I have the most recent edition of Windows 10 with all updates current.

I have scoured the Internet (using Google Chrome) and tried every solution offered by MS agents and users but nothing has worked.

It seems to me that there is something that is prohibiting my Microsoft apps from communicating with the Internet.

dalchina said:

Hi, all the above is good advice.

Thanks for the response, dalchina. My answers below in red:
Basic question: when did all these symptoms start occurring? Have they slowly built up over a period? Have they suddenly started happening? Have they started happening after some event?

They happened all at once recently. I did have an event this past week but I don't know if it happened before or after the issues described herein. A few days ago, a message from Dell appeared on my computer indicating a new BIOS was available. I installed the BIOS update with seemingly no issues. As I said, I don't know if the MS apps problem had already occurred. Today I attempted to revert to the previous BIOS but was unsuccessful.
What is your Windows build? (Windows key + R, winver)

Version 1709 (16299.192)
Start before attempting repairs by doing the following basic checks:
Test your disk: e.g. download and install Hard Disk Sentinel (trial) and post a screenshot of its GUI.

I tested the disk with Dell software and it is OK
If ok then from an admin command prompt run
chkdsk c: /scan

OK
and report the result. If OK then
sfc /scannow and report the result.
No Issues
If there are disk problems there's little point in attempting Windows repairs.
No disk problems
- could you list what you've tried to save anyone here repeating that? Thanks.

I have spent the past two days trying every solution listed in the various forums.

EdTittel said:

This kind of thing apparently happens sometimes, frequently enough that this thread on answers.microsoft.com elicited 168 responses: Windows 10 Apps cant access the Internet but desktop apps can - Microsoft Community. The solutions that emerge in this include an upgrade repair install (see this TenForums tutorial: Repair Install Windows 10 with an In-place Upgrade), and a reference to a WindowsClub article about repairing the Windows Store cache (see these TenForums tutorials instead: Clear and Reset Store Cache in Windows 10 and Reinstall and Re-register Apps in Windows 10). If none of this helps (I'd try the repairs first, then an upgrade install next, if I were you), come on back and we'll help you get it sorted out.
HTH,
--Ed--

Thank you Ed. Yes, there are numerous posts regarding this issue and Microsoft does not seem to have any answers. I have tried your suggestions with no luck, except, I have not attempted a system refresh. That would be a last resort.

dalchina said:

To eliminate one other possibility, try creating a new user account for test purposes to check if this is user account corruption. If you experience the same symptoms, then continue. If not, post back.

Given that your disk is sound and the range of symptoms, I would suggest you head straight for an in-place upgrade repair install which keeps all programs and data and most settings as Ed mentioned.

Repair Install Windows 10 with an In-place Upgrade Windows 10 Tutorials

I guess you're not using disk imaging routinely as we recommend (e.g. Macrium Reflect (free) ) - so you could quickly and easily restore your system to a previous working state from a previously created disk image. Many advantages.

I'm also going to guess that although this has happened recently, using a system restore point would be inadequate- although you are welcome to try that, assuming you enabled system restore (it's off by default).

I do have a remaining concern about issues you mention about your account.

Thanks for the tip on Macrium Reflect, I have already downloaded it. It looks like an in-place upgrade repair - install is the best option. I received an update from Microsoft this afternoon and afterwards I was able to log into my MS account. Coincidence? I appreciate the help!

phfactor said:

Thanks for the tip on Macrium Reflect, I have already downloaded it. It looks like an in-place upgrade repair - install is the best option. I received an update from Microsoft this afternoon and afterwards I was able to log into my MS account. Coincidence? I appreciate the help!

Just completed the " in-place upgrade repair install" and the operation was a success! Thank you so much dalchina and Ed, I REALLY appreciate the help!!!

dalchina said:

Good news. Consolidate your position with a Windows disk image...before....

The good news was short-lived. I have a constant blue, flashing and spinning curser. Doesn't affect performance but what an aggravation! Any ideas?