Play Store errors and how to fix them
What each Play Store error means (DF-DFERH-01, RH-01, 495, 924, "download pending"…) and the 6-step method that fixes most of them.
Most Play Store errors are fixed by the same six steps, done in order. The error code mainly tells you which step holds the fix.
6-step diagnosis (gentlest first)
- Check your connection and the date. Turn on automatic date and time in SettingsSystemDate & time. A wrong clock makes Google's servers reject the connection (a classic cause of RH-01).
- Free up space. Leave at least 1 GB free in SettingsStorage.
- Clear the Play Store cache. SettingsAppsGoogle Play StoreStorage & cacheClear cache, then Force stop.
- Clear the data of Play Store and Google Play services. Clear storage on both.
- Remove your Google account and add it again. SettingsPasswords & accountsGoogleRemove account, restart and add it back. Make sure you know the password first.
- Reinstall the store. Uninstall Play Store updates or install 53.2.23 from the APK.
Error code table
| Error | Meaning | Usual fix |
|---|---|---|
DF-DFERH-01 | Error retrieving information from server | Steps 3 and 4; then step 6 |
RH-01 | Server rejects the connection, often date or account | Steps 1 and 5 |
495 | Download interrupted | Clear Download Manager cache and data, then step 3 |
924 | Download failed, sometimes due to space | Steps 2, 3 and 6 |
963 | SD card problem while updating an app | Move the app to internal storage, update, reinsert the card |
403 | Download not allowed for the account or region | Turn off VPN; buy with the account signed in to the store |
| "Download pending" | Waiting in queue | Cancel other downloads; check "Wi-Fi only" |
| "Authentication is required" | Account session expired | Step 5 |
| "App not installed" | Version conflict or wrong APK | See its guide |
Detailed guides by error
- "App not installed": why it happens and how to fix itAppears when installing an APK: version or signature conflict, or wrong file.
- "Authentication is required" in Play Store: how to fix itThe store asks you to sign in on a loop because the session expired.
- Error 495 when downloading apps from Play StoreThe download stops halfway. Usually the network or the system download manager.
- Error DF-DFERH-01: "Error retrieving information from server"Appears when opening the store or an app. Almost always corrupted cache.
- Play Store error 924: how to fix itDownload or update fails, usually space or cache.
- Play Store error RH-01: causes and fixUsually date and time, the account, or a device without complete Google services.
- Play Store keeps stopping or closes by itself: how to fix itThe store crashes. Usually cache, services or WebView.
- Play Store stuck on "Download pending": how to fix itThe download never starts. Usually a queue or the store is waiting for Wi-Fi.
Sometimes Google's own servers are having trouble. If everything suddenly fails without you changing anything, wait 30 minutes before clearing data or removing your account.
Frequently asked questions
Does clearing Play Store data delete my apps?
No. It only resets the store's settings. Your apps, purchases and account are safe.
Will a factory reset fix Play Store errors?
Almost always, but it wipes the phone. Only do it after the six steps and with a backup.