So, turning off the Microsoft-verified app setting on Windows 11 is actually pretty easy, but it’s kind of a pain because of how Windows wants to keep everything locked down by default. Basically, your system by default only lets you install apps from the Microsoft Store — which is good for security, yeah, but also super limiting if you wanna run other stuff. The goal here is to loosen that restriction so you can install from other sources, like third-party websites or local installers. Trust me, this comes in handy when a must-have app isn’t in the store, or if you’re dealing with developer setups or niche tools. Expect that once you change this, your Windows will be a bit more flexible (and a little less safe).Just a heads up though, because of course, Windows has to complicate things, so some machines throw a fit or ask for permissions after the change — not always seamless. Anyway, here’s how to do it. It’s not even that complicated once you get the hang of it.
How to Turn Off Microsoft-Verified App Setting in Windows 11
This walkthrough will help you step into an easier world of app installs. Basically, you’ll remove the gatekeeper that only allows the Store apps, which is useful when you keep hitting that “This app can’t be installed from a trusted source” message. After you tweak this, you’ll be able to run more types of software, but yeah, stay cautious. It’s kind of weird, but on some setups, the change might take a reboot or even a restart of the Explorer process (so save your work).
Navigate to the Settings menu
- It all starts with opening Settings. Click the Start menu, then hit the gear icon, or just tap Windows key + I.
- Because Windows still loves hiding stuff, you’ve gotta get comfortable poking around a bit to find the right setting.
Find your way to App Settings
- In Settings, click on the Apps section. This is where all the fun app management goodness happens.
- From the sidebar, select Apps & features. On some updates, you might see it labeled as “Install apps from anywhere” or “Choose where to get apps.”
Change the install source to “Anywhere”
- Within the Apps & features page, look for the dropdown labeled “Choose where to get apps”.
- By default, it says “The Microsoft Store only (recommended)”. Change it to “Anywhere”, or on some builds, it might say “Allow apps from anywhere”.
- If you don’t see this option, head to Settings > Privacy & Security > For Developers— sometimes, enabling “Developer Mode” pops up this option in a different place. Basically, it’s about giving Windows permission to let you install apps from other sources.
Confirm and finish up
- Some systems might prompt you with a security warning or ask for confirmation. Just click Yes or Allow.
- If nothing pops up, then you’re good to go! Just restart your system or restart the Explorer process if it doesn’t seem to have taken effect right away (
taskkill /im explorer.exe /f && start explorer.exein PowerShell if you’re feeling brave).
And that’s mostly it. Now Windows will accept apps from all kinds of sources, not just the Store. Of course, use your judgment — especially when installing stuff from shady sites. It’s a balancing act between convenience and security.
Tips for Turning Off the Setting Safely
- Only download apps from sources you trust — malware loves to lurk in the untrusted corners.
- Update your antivirus to minimize risks — more apps, more vulnerabilities, it seems.
- If you’re playing with risky sources or just to be safe, create a restore point beforehand, just in case things go sideways.
- Pay attention to app permissions during install — some apps ask for more access than they should.
- Remember, the more lax your install policies, the easier it is for bad stuff to sneak in. Stay cautious.
FAQ
What’s this Microsoft-verified app setting, anyway?
It’s basically a security feature where Windows says, “Yeah, only allow apps from the Microsoft Store so you don’t get malware, ” which works most of the time, but not always.
Why bother turning it off?
If you need apps that aren’t in the store, you kinda have to. Sometimes developers distribute outside the store, so this gives way more flexibility.
Is my PC more vulnerable?
Sort of. You’re opening the floodgates for potential malware if you’re not careful. That’s why trusting sources and running good antivirus is more important than ever.
Can I revert this change later?
Yes, just go back through the same steps and switch it back to “The Microsoft Store only.” Easy enough.
Will old apps stop working if I turn off this setting?
Nope, only new installs are affected. Your existing apps stay put.
Wrap-up
- Open Settings > Apps
- Go to Apps & features
- Find the “Choose where to get apps” dropdown
- Switch it to “Anywhere”
- Confirm and restart if needed
Final thoughts
Getting this little tweak right can make your Windows 11 experience way more flexible, especially if you’re tired of being stuck only with Microsoft Store apps. Just remember, with more freedom comes more responsibility — don’t blindly trust every download, stay vigilant, and keep your security tools updated. Worked for me on a couple of different setups, so fingers crossed it’ll help you out too. Happy installing!