In Windows 11, Microsoft has its own applications set by default for most types of files. But you can change default applications in Windows 11. This allows you to set third-party applications like Chrome as the default browser or VLC as the media player, for example.
This is great for experienced users who know what they want on their PC. But if you are an inexperienced user just getting started with Windows 11, you may want to configure your applications to be signed by Microsoft. This is where the Microsoft App Store. You can limit apps to only install from the Store. Here’s how to do it.
How to Install Applications in Windows 11 Only From the Microsoft Store
To get started, open the Setting going to Home> Settings. You can also use the keyboard shortcut Windows + I to directly open the Setting.
It’s also worth noting that it can be opened by right-clicking the Start button and then Setting from the menu.
Whichever way you open it, tap on Applications from the list on the left once it appears Setting. Then on the right, click Apps and Features from the list of options.
Then in the section Apps and Features, find the option “Choose where to get the applications” and click on the drop-down menu next to it.
In the drop-down menu, click on the option “Only the Microsoft Store (recommended)”At the end of the list. Once done, you can close the settings.
Going forward, if someone tries to run an installation file for a downloaded .exe or .msi application, the following message will appear on the desktop. It tells you that it has not been “verified by Microsoft.” At this point, the user can click the “Get apps from the store” button to launch the Microsoft Store and find an app.
Summary
Now, it’s worth noting that you can also click the “Change my app recommendations settings” link below that button. That will take you to the “Applications and Features” section, where you can change it again.
Another thing worth mentioning is that you can choose other options like install apps from anywhere but notify you if there is a comparable app in the Store. Or to notify you before installing an app from the Store.
Still, if you’re new to Windows 11, this is a good first step in educating you on the importance of malware prevention.
For more information on the new operating system, see how to move the Home button to the left. Or, if you haven’t found it yet, learn how to open Task Manager in Windows 11.
