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Resolving “The App You’re Trying to Install Isn’t a Microsoft-Verified App”
Resolving “The App You’re Trying to Install Isn’t a Microsoft-Verified App”
Alim Sadat avatar
Written by Alim Sadat
Updated over a year ago

Have you encountered the "The app you're attempting to install isn't a Microsoft-verified app" error when trying to install an application? This error typically arises when your system is set to exclusively allow app installations from the Microsoft Store. This configuration could be intentional or may have been set as the default option.

In addition to this, the error can also occur due to issues like a corrupted Microsoft Store cache, attempting to install an app from an unapproved source, or having Windows S mode enabled. This article will cover some steps and solutions to address the issue and ensure a successful app installation.

1. Adjust Your Operating System's App Settings

Microsoft prioritizes the safety and security of Windows users. To support this objective, Windows provides a feature that restricts the installation of apps obtained from sources other than the Microsoft Store. However, a drawback of enabling this feature is that it can prevent users from installing commonly used and secure applications from the internet.

When users attempt to install an app with this restriction in place, Windows is likely to display an error message indicating that the app is not Microsoft-verified. To avoid encountering the aforementioned error, you should configure Windows to permit the installation of apps from sources other than the Microsoft Store.

To modify app permissions on Windows 10, follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings app.

2. Navigate to the Apps settings.

3. Select "Apps and Features" from the left side and then choose "Anywhere" from the dropdown menu under "Choose where to get apps."

To modify app permissions on Windows 11, follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings app

2. Navigate to the Apps tab.


3. select Advanced app Settings

4. Select Anywhere from the dropdown menu next to Choose where to get apps.

2. Deactivate Windows S Mode

Windows S Mode is primarily designed to provide the highest level of security within the Windows ecosystem. Its main purpose is to safeguard children and protect sensitive information from unauthorized access.

While active, Windows S Mode restricts users from downloading apps solely from the Microsoft Store. It also disallows the use of command-line tools, code editors, and modifications in the Windows Registry Editor.

If your new device comes with Windows S Mode enabled by default, attempting to install apps from sources other than the store may trigger the error you've encountered. To prevent this issue, ensure that Windows S Mode is disabled.

To check if your device is running S Mode, open the Settings app, select the "System" tab on the left, and access the "About" page. If you discover that S Mode is enabled, you can turn it off by following these steps:

1. Open the Settings app.

2. Navigate to the "System" tab and select "Activation".

3. Click on "Go to the store" under "Switch to Windows 11 Home/Pro," which will take you to the Microsoft Store page where you can opt out of S Mode.

4. Click the "Get" button and follow the on-screen instructions to exit S Mode.

Re-enabling the Installation of Third-Party Applications on Windows

Microsoft restricts third-party app installations to enhance your security. However, it can be frustrating if this hinders you from installing essential applications. Hopefully, you now have a clearer understanding of why the Microsoft Store displays the "the app you're trying to install isn't a Microsoft-verified app" error. By applying the solutions mentioned above, you can regain the ability to download apps from unofficial sources.

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