Jump to Key Sections
As one of the latest versions of Microsoft’s operating system, Windows 11 offers many improvements and new features. However, the Microsoft Store doesn’t offer all the applications that users might want to download. Some applications may need to be sideloaded, meaning that they’re installed on the computer without accessing the Microsoft Store directly.
While sideloading apps may sound daunting, it can be done easily and safely. In this blog post, we’ll look at why you might want to sideload apps, what you need to know before you begin, and three different methods for sideloading apps on Windows 11.
Video Tutorial:
The Challenge of Sideload Apps on Windows 11
Windows 11 requires all the applications that you download from the internet to be signed to ensure that they come from a trusted source. However, not all applications are available on the Microsoft Store, so some users may want to install apps using other methods like sideloading.
Sideloaded apps can be useful to access applications that aren’t available on the Microsoft Store or bypass certain blockages like firewalls, geographical restrictions, or administrative/enterprise restrictions. At the same time, it can also pose some risk if you sideload an untrusted or fake app, and it can be dangerous for your Windows 11 system.
Things You Should Prepare for
Before sideloading apps on Windows 11, there are several things that you need to prepare:
1. A Windows 11 device that is connected to the internet.
2. A trusted source to download the app package, such as the app developer’s official website.
3. You may need to adjust your Windows security settings to allow the app installation.
4. Avoid using apps with an unverified provider.
Method 1: Sideloading using the Microsoft Store Collection
The Microsoft Store Collection is a group of apps curated by Microsoft, where you can find and download third-party applications that aren’t available on the Microsoft Store. Here’s how you can sideload apps on Windows 11 using the Microsoft Store Collection:
1. Open the Microsoft Store app and go to Settings.
2. In the Settings window, toggle on the “Show apps from outside the Microsoft Store” option.
3. Go back to the Microsoft Store homepage and search for the Microsoft Store Collection. Download it if you haven’t already.
4. Choose the app that you want to sideload and click the “Get app” button.
5. After the download is complete, the app will be installed on your Windows 11 device.
Pros:
– The Microsoft Store Collection includes a wide range of apps that aren’t available on the Microsoft Store.
– It’s easy to use, and you don’t need to download any additional software.
Cons:
– You need to change your security settings beforehand to allow installation from outside the Microsoft Store.
– The collection is limited, and you may not find the app that you want.
Method 2: Sideloading using a PowerShell Script
PowerShell is a powerful tool that is installed by default on Windows 11. It allows you to write and run scripts that can automate many tasks and processes, including sideloading applications. Here’s how you can sideload apps on Windows 11 using a PowerShell script:
1. Download the app package from the developer’s website or a trusted source.
2. Open PowerShell with administrative rights by typing “PowerShell” in the Windows search bar, then right-click on PowerShell and select “Run as administrator.”
3. Inside PowerShell, navigate to the folder where the app package is downloaded. For example, if the app package is saved on the desktop, type “cd C:\Users\USERNAME\Desktop” (replace USERNAME with your Windows username) and hit Enter.
4. Type the following command to allow sideloading: “Set-ExecutionPolicy RemoteSigned.” This will allow PowerShell to run your script.
5. Type the following command to install the app: “Add-AppxPackage -Path ‘C:\Path\To\AppPackage.appx’”, replacing ‘C:\Path\To\AppPackage.appx’ with the path to the downloaded app package.
6. Once PowerShell finishes installing the app, you’ll see it appear in your Start Menu.
Pros:
– PowerShell can automate the process of sideloading apps, saving you time and effort.
– It’s a built-in feature that doesn’t require installing any additional tools.
Cons:
– PowerShell is a command-line interface, and if you’re not familiar with using it, it could be difficult to understand for new users.
– There is no easy way to uninstall apps installed via PowerShell.
Method 3: Sideloading using the App Installer
The App Installer is a tool available through Microsoft’s official website that simplifies the process of sideloading applications. The App Installer takes care of the installation process automatically, so you don’t need to worry about using PowerShell. Here’s how you can sideload apps on Windows 11 using the App Installer:
1. Download and install the App Installer from Microsoft’s website.
2. Download the app package from the developer’s website or a trusted source.
3. Open the app package by double-clicking on it.
4. When Windows asks you how you want to install the app, choose “App Installer.”
5. Follow the prompts, and the App Installer will take care of the rest.
Pros:
– The App Installer simplifies the process of sideloading apps, especially for new users.
– It can automatically uninstall apps that are sideloaded.
Cons:
– The App Installer is only available after downloading, and you need to install it before sideloading any apps.
– It has limited options and may not work for all application package types.
Why Can’t I Sideload Apps on Windows 11?
Here are some common reasons why you may not be able to sideload apps on Windows 11 and how to fix them:
1. Your Windows 11 device is not connected to the internet. Make sure you have a stable internet connection before sideloading apps.
2. You don’t have administrative permissions. Log in to Windows 11 with an account that has administrative permissions, or ask the admin to grant you permissions.
3. Your security settings are blocking app installation. Go to Windows Security and toggle on the “Install apps from outside the Microsoft Store” option.
4. The app package that you’re downloading is invalid or corrupted. Download the app from a trusted source and verify its authenticity.
Additional Tips
– Always use a trusted source to download the app package.
– Before sideloading apps, make sure your Windows 11 device is up-to-date with the latest security patches.
– Be cautious when sideloading apps, especially if they come from unofficial sources or have not been verified.
– Always backup your data before sideloading any applications.
5 FAQs about Sideload Apps on Windows 11
Q1: Do I need to have administrative permissions to sideload apps on Windows 11?
A: Yes, you need to log in with an account that has administrative permissions or have the admin grant you permissions.
Q2: Is sideloading apps on Windows 11 safe?
A: Sideloading apps can pose some risks, including installing unverified or fake apps that could harm your device. Be cautious when downloading apps, use trusted sources, and make sure your security settings are up to date.
Q3: What happens if I sideload an app that’s not compatible with Windows 11?
A: The app may not run or cause errors on your device. Ensure that the app is compatible with Windows 11 before sideloading.
Q4: What should I do if an app that I sideloaded doesn’t work?
A: Uninstall the app and try downloading it from a different source or sideloading it again.
Q5: Can I uninstall sideloaded apps?
A: Yes, you can uninstall sideloaded apps just like any other applications on Windows 11.
In Conclusion
Sideloading apps on Windows 11 can provide you with access to many applications that aren’t available on the Microsoft Store. While it may seem daunting at first, it can be done easily and safely. By using the tools and tips described in this blog post, you can download and install apps that can help you be more productive and efficient with your Windows 11 device.