How to Install Unverified Apps on Windows: A Step-by-Step Guide

Windows, by default, prioritizes your security and often blocks the installation of apps from sources it doesn’t recognize. These apps are often labeled as “unverified” or “unknown publisher.” While this mechanism is intended to protect you from malware, sometimes you might need to install a legitimate program that Windows flags. This guide will walk you through the process of safely installing unverified apps on Windows, covering different scenarios and offering important considerations.

Understanding the Risks

Before proceeding, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks involved in installing unverified software. Unverified apps may contain malware, viruses, or other harmful software that could compromise your system’s security. Always make sure you trust the source of the app and have scanned the downloaded file with a reliable antivirus program before proceeding.

Methods for Installing Unverified Apps

Windows offers several ways to install apps that it considers unverified. Here are the most common methods:

1. Using the “Run anyway” Option

This is the most straightforward method and works when Windows displays a security warning during installation. Here’s how it works:

1. Download the App: Download the desired unverified app from its source. Be very cautious about the source.
2. Run the Installer: Locate the downloaded installer file (.exe or .msi file) and double-click it.
3. Security Warning: A Windows security prompt will appear, stating that the app is from an unknown publisher.
4. Click “More info”: Click the “More info” link (usually located under the app name and publisher warning).
5. Select “Run anyway”: A button labeled “Run anyway” will appear. Click this to proceed with the installation.

Important Note: Clicking “Run anyway” is essentially bypassing the security check, so be absolutely certain you trust the source of the app.

2. Temporarily Disabling SmartScreen

SmartScreen is a security feature that blocks unrecognized apps. Temporarily disabling it allows you to install an unverified app, but it’s crucial to re-enable it afterward for continued protection. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open Windows Security: Search for “Windows Security” in the Start menu and open the app.
2. Select App & Browser Control: Click on “App & Browser control” on the left-hand menu.
3. Reputation-based Protection Settings: Click “Reputation-based protection settings”.
4. Turn Off Check apps and files: In the section of “Check apps and files”, turn off the switch.
5. Install the App: Now proceed with the installation of the unverified app.
6. Re-enable SmartScreen: After the installation is complete, immediately go back to the Reputation-based protection settings and turn on the switch for “Check apps and files”.

Warning: Disabling SmartScreen leaves your computer vulnerable to threats. Only use this method if you are confident about the app’s source and remember to re-enable it immediately after installation.

3. Adjusting the User Account Control (UAC) Settings (Not Recommended)

Adjusting UAC can lower the security prompts, but this is generally not recommended for everyday use as it can make your system less secure. If you really need to, here is the method:

1. Open Control Panel: Search for “Control Panel” in the Start menu and open it.
2. Search User Accounts: Select “User Accounts”.
3. Select Change User Account Control Settings: Click on this.
4. Lower the Security Level: Lower the slider from its default position to a lower level of security. Note: This step is NOT recommended for general use.
5. Install the App: Install the app.
6. Revert UAC Settings: Revert the security level to default or to higher level.

Warning: Lowering UAC settings can significantly reduce your system’s overall security. It should only be done as a last resort and immediately revert after installation.

Important Safety Considerations

• Only Install Trusted Apps: Only install unverified apps from sources you trust completely. If you have doubts, it’s better to avoid the app.
• Scan with Antivirus: Always scan downloaded files with a reliable antivirus program before you install them, even if you trust the source.
• Backup Your System: Before making any changes to your system, make a backup of your system or create a restore point in case something goes wrong.
• Read Reviews: Search online for reviews or experiences from other users of the app before you install it.
• Keep Software Updated: Ensure your operating system and antivirus software are up to date. This reduces vulnerabilities to malware.

Conclusion

Installing unverified apps on Windows can be necessary in some cases, but it comes with risks. Always exercise caution, verify the app’s source, and use antivirus protection. Following the steps in this guide should help you proceed safely and install necessary apps, while keeping your system as secure as possible. Always remember: prevention is the best protection when dealing with unverified software.