How to Fix CrossDeviceService.exe File System Error (-2147163901) in Windows

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If you’re getting this error:

Program Files\WindowsApps\MicrosoftWindows.CrossDevice_1.25071.33.0_x64_cw5n1h\CrossDeviceService.exe  
File system error (-2147163901)

It usually means your Windows Cross Device Service is corrupted, missing permissions, or isn’t properly registered.

This service is responsible for syncing your Windows PC with other devices—like your smartphone—so when it breaks, features like “Continue on PC” stop working.

The good news? You can fix it yourself without reinstalling Windows. Follow this step-by-step troubleshooting guide.

Step 1: Manually Install CrossDevice

Bypassing the Microsoft Store can resolve cases where the store version is corrupted.

  1. Download the latest CrossDevice.appx file from Microsoft’s official source or a trusted Windows package site.
  2. Right-click PowerShell and choose Run as Administrator.
  3. Enter the command (replace with your file location):
Add-AppxPackage -Path "C:\Path\to\CrossDevice.appx" -Register -ForceApplicationShutdown

Step 2: Reset WindowsApps Folder Permissions

The WindowsApps folder sometimes develops permission conflicts that stop apps from launching.

  1. Open Command Prompt (Admin).
  2. Run these commands:
icacls "C:\Program Files\WindowsApps" /reset /T /C /L /Q
takeown /F "C:\Program Files\WindowsApps" /R /A /D Y

Step 3: Repair Corrupted Windows Files

Use DISM and SFC to scan and fix system file corruption.

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
sfc /scannow

Run these in Command Prompt (Admin), one after the other.

Step 4: Force Re-Register CrossDevice

If permissions and files are fixed but the service still won’t run, re-register it manually:

Add-AppxPackage -Path "C:\Path\to\CrossDevice.appx" -Register

Step 5: Update Windows & Store Apps

Updating closes compatibility gaps that may cause the error.

  • Windows Update: Go to Settings → Windows Update → Install all updates.
  • Microsoft Store: Open the Store, go to Library → Update all apps.

Step 6: Reset Cross-Device App Settings

If the error persists, reset the app’s configuration:

  1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
  2. Navigate to Apps → Installed apps.
  3. Locate Cross Device Service → Click … → Advanced options → Reset.

Extra Tip: Create a Fresh User Profile

If all else fails, the issue may be tied to your Windows user account. Create a new local or Microsoft account and test CrossDevice there.

Final Thoughts

The CrossDeviceService.exe File system error (-2147163901) is frustrating, but in most cases it comes down to:

  • Broken app registration
  • Damaged system files
  • Incorrect permissions

By following these six steps, you should be able to restore the service and get your device’s syncing features back without a full reinstall.

FAQ

Q1: What causes File System Error (-2147163901) in Windows?
It’s usually caused by broken app registration, corrupted system files, or permission issues in the WindowsApps folder.

Q2: Can I fix this without reinstalling Windows?
Yes, following the six steps above typically resolves the issue without a full reinstall.

Q3: Will running DISM and SFC delete my data?
No, these commands only repair system files. Your files remain untouched.

Q4: Where can I get the CrossDevice.appx file?
It’s included with Windows but can also be downloaded from Microsoft’s official servers or a trusted repository.

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