How to fix “The app you’re trying to install isn’t a Microsoft-verified app” error in Windows 10 or 11

What is “The app you’re trying to install isn’t a Microsoft-verified app” error?

If you’re encountering the error message “The app you’re trying to install isn’t a Microsoft-verified app,” it means that the app you’re attempting to install hasn’t undergone Microsoft’s verification process. Microsoft introduced this verification system to enhance security and protect users from potentially harmful or unreliable apps. Remember, it’s important to exercise caution when installing apps from unverified sources. Ensure you trust the source and the app itself, as there is always a risk associated with installing software that hasn’t undergone thorough verification. However, if you still want to proceed with installing the app despite the warning, here are a few possible solutions:

How to fix “The app you’re trying to install isn’t a Microsoft-verified app” error manually

Proceed anyway

Proceed with caution: While Microsoft-verified apps are generally safer, you can still install apps from other sources. However, be aware that installing apps from unverified sources can pose a security risk. Ensure you trust the source and the app itself before proceeding.

Enable unverified app installation

Enable app installations from unverified sources: By default, Windows 10 blocks the installation of apps from unverified sources. To change this setting, follow these steps:

1. Go to Settings by clicking the Start button and selecting the gear icon.
2. In the Settings window, select Apps.
3. Choose Apps & features from the left sidebar.
4. Under the Installing apps section, locate the drop-down menu labeled Choose where to get apps.
5. Select Anywhere from the list. Please note that the wording might differ slightly depending on your Windows 10 version.
6. A warning message will appear, notifying you about the potential risks. Read it carefully, and if you still wish to proceed, click Yes.

Enable unverified app installations via Registry Editor

Important Note: Modifying the Windows Registry can have serious consequences if not done correctly. It’s highly recommended to create a backup of your registry or create a system restore point before proceeding. If you’re not familiar with the Registry Editor or uncomfortable making changes, it’s best to seek assistance from someone experienced or consider alternative methods.

1. Open the Registry Editor: Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box. Type regedit (without quotes) and press Enter. If prompted by the User Account Control (UAC), select Yes to grant permission.
2. Navigate to the appropriate key: In the Registry Editor, navigate to the following location:
   HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System
3. Create a new DWORD value: Right-click on the right-hand side of the window and choose New > DWORD (32-bit) Value. Name the new value EnableAppInstallControl (without quotes).
4. Modify the new value: Double-click on the newly created EnableAppInstallControl value and set its Value data to 1. Click OK to save the changes.
5. Close the Registry Editor: Close the Registry Editor window.
6. Restart your computer: After making the changes, restart your computer to apply the modifications.

Check for alternative sources

If the app you’re trying to install isn’t Microsoft-verified, consider checking the developer’s website or other trusted software repositories. Many legitimate software vendors provide downloads directly from their websites or through reliable third-party platforms.

Contact app developer

If the app you want to install is from a trustworthy developer but isn’t Microsoft-verified, you can reach out to them for assistance. They may be able to provide guidance on how to proceed or offer alternative methods of installation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, encountering the error message “The app you’re trying to install isn’t a Microsoft-verified app” can be a roadblock when attempting to install an app that hasn’t undergone Microsoft’s verification process. While Microsoft has implemented this system to enhance security and protect users, there are ways to address the issue if you choose to proceed with installing the app from an unverified source. By enabling app installations from unverified sources through the Windows settings or modifying the Registry Editor, you can bypass the restriction imposed by Microsoft. However, it’s essential to exercise caution and consider the potential security risks associated with installing apps from unverified sources.

Ultimately, it’s important to strike a balance between convenience and security. While there may be valid reasons to install apps from unverified sources, it’s crucial to be vigilant and make informed decisions to protect your system and personal data.