The error “App you’re trying to install isn’t a Microsoft-verified app” presents itself when a user tries to download an app that has not either passed or been put to the Microsoft verification process. Microsoft tends to review apps to ensure that they are safe, reliable, and compatible with Windows systems. But this does not mean that a user cannot break free of this and regain control over which apps they decide to add to their systems.
In this article, I will be discussing four different ways in which you can turn off Microsoft-verified app obstruction and download any app you want. Make sure to follow all these steps, and happy downloading!
Key Takeaways
- The error presents itself as “App you’re trying to install isn’t a Microsoft-verified app” and wouldn’t allow your PC or Laptop to proceed with the download.
- The reason behind the error is the stringent verification process that Microsoft runs on apps, only allowing for apps that meet certain quality and security standards (and are available through the Microsoft store)
- Possible fixes to correct this error or gain more control over your app choices include changing advanced app settings, through the command prompt, the registry editor, or the group policy.
Change Advanced App Settings
The first fix, and perhaps the easiest, that my team and I realized would do the trick to remove the error: “App you’re trying to install isn’t a Microsoft-verified app” was to change the settings that specify where apps are allowed to be downloaded. This solution works well for other users around the globe as well. One endorsement of the solution can be found in the Microsoft community.
- Open settings: Click on the Windows button and find settings.
2. Search for Apps: Once in settings, go to the apps section
3. Head to Advanced App Settings: Find the Advanced app settings and look for ‘Choose where to get apps.’ Toggle that to fix the error.
Through The Command Prompt
The second fix that works like a charm to remove the error: “App you’re trying to install isn’t a Microsoft-verified app” is through the command prompt.
- Open Command Prompt: Search for ‘CMD’ in Windows Search & run as an administrator
2. Enter code: Enter the following code into the command prompt window & press enter:
reg add HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer /v AicEnabled /t REG_SZ /d Anywhere
NOTE: With this method, you might have to restart your PC or Laptop
Through Group Policy Editor
The third fix that we here at Emopulse came up with to remove the error: “App you’re trying to install isn’t a Microsoft-verified app” was to make edits to the group policy.
- Open run dialog: Open the run command window using the shortcut ‘Windows key + R’
- Enter command: Enter the following command “gpedit.msc” into the command window and hit enter. This opens the group policy editor.
Run Command Window – Image credits (Emopulse) 3. App Install Control: From the ‘Group Policy Editor > Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Defender SmartScreen > Explorer’
4. Disable App Install Control: Double-click on the Configure App Install Control option. A pop-up will appear. Select ‘disabled’ or ‘not configured’. Press ‘OK’.
Through The Registry Editor
The fourth fix to remove the error: “App you’re trying to install isn’t a Microsoft-verified app” is making edits in the registry through the registry editor. I benefited from this method multiple times.
- Open Registry Editor: Through the search menu, open the registry editor.
2. Navigate to Explorer: Enter the follower address in the address bar on the top of the registry editor (or navigate to):
Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer
3. Locate AIC Enabled
4. Edit AIC Enabled: Double-click on AIC Enabled. A pop-up will appear. Change the value data to ‘Anywhere’
Final Verdict
Turning off Microsoft-verified apps is quite common amongst users who like to experiment with a variety of apps. If you are 100% certain that the app you are trying to install is from a reputable source and would not harm your system, playing with Microsoft security features makes sense. Whether it is by locating AIC-Enabled in the registry editor & setting that to anywhere, by disabling app install control through the group policy editor, by the command prompt, or by changing advanced app settings, you can find a workaround for this barrier. For me, all these fixes worked. Still, in case these fixes don’t work for you, reach out to us in the comments.
If you found this article helpful, you might want to read:
- How To Disable Windows Firewall?
- How To Clear Your Browser Cache?
- How To Remove Bing From Windows 11?
Frequently Asked Questions
Will turning off Microsoft-verified apps void any warranties or support agreements with Microsoft?
No, turning off Microsoft-verified apps will not void any warranties or support agreements with Microsoft. It is a customization option provided by the Windows operating system.
Are there any potential risks associated with turning off Microsoft-verified apps?
Turning off Microsoft-verified apps may expose you to some additional risks, such as installing apps that have not been vetted by Microsoft for quality and security. It's important to only download apps from trusted sources.
Will turning off Microsoft-verified apps prevent me from accessing certain applications or features?
No, turning off Microsoft-verified apps will not prevent you from accessing any applications or features on your system. It simply allows you to install apps from sources other than the Microsoft Store.
What are Microsoft-verified apps in Windows 11, and why would I want to turn them off?
Microsoft-verified apps are applications that have undergone a verification process by Microsoft to ensure they meet certain quality and security standards. Users may want to turn them off to install apps from other sources or to have more control over their app choices.
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