Installing apps on Windows without using the Microsoft Store can be tricky, especially if you’ve uninstalled the store app. Fortunately, there are multiple ways to download and install Microsoft Store apps directly, bypassing the need for the store itself. In this guide, I’ll show you three effective methods to install these apps safely and easily, including a new method using UniGetUI.
Key Takeaways
- Multiple Methods Available: You can install Microsoft Store apps without the store by using UniGetUI, an online link generator, or a dedicated app download website.
- Flexible Options: These methods allow you to download and install
.msixbundlefiles, the format used by Microsoft Store apps. - Safe and Effective: All methods are safe and let you install apps even if the Microsoft Store is uninstalled.
Why You Might Need to Install Apps Without the Microsoft Store
Some users prefer to uninstall the Microsoft Store for various reasons, such as limiting app access, managing resources, or simply preferring to download apps manually. However, this can present challenges when you need to install or update apps that are typically only available through the Microsoft Store. Thankfully, alternative methods exist that let you download and install apps without relying on the store.
Method 1: Using UniGetUI to Install Microsoft Store Apps
The first method involves using UniGetUI, a versatile tool that allows you to install Microsoft Store apps without using the store itself. UniGetUI provides a graphical user interface for various package managers, making it easy to install apps directly from sources like Winget, Scoop, and Chocolatey.
Note: WinGetUI was renamed to UniGetUI by the developer, but it’s still the same application.
Steps to Use UniGetUI to Install Microsoft Store Apps
Step 1: Download and Install UniGetUI
- Open your web browser and go to the UniGetUI download page.
- Click “Download UniGetUI” and follow the prompts to install the software on your PC.
Step 2: Search for the App in UniGetUI
- Launch UniGetUI and ensure “Discover Packages” is selected.
- Type the name of the app you want to install (e.g., TikTok) in the search bar.
Step 3: Install the App Using UniGetUI
- Check the box next to the app you want to install.
- Click “Install Selected Packages” at the bottom to begin the installation.
Step 4: Launch the Installed App
- Once the installation is complete, search for the app on your computer and launch it.
UniGetUI also allows you to manage updates for installed software, making it a powerful tool for maintaining apps on your system.
Method 2: Using an Online Link Generator for Microsoft Store Apps
This method involves using a website that generates direct download links for Microsoft Store apps. It’s a great alternative if you prefer not to use third-party applications like UniGetUI.
Steps to Use the Online Link Generator
Step 1: Access the Online Link Generator
Navigate to the Online link generator for Microsoft Store web page.
Step 2: Get the App URL
Visit the official Microsoft Store page of the app you want to install. Copy the URL from the address bar.
Step 3: Paste the URL
In the link generator, paste the app URL into the designated field. Select “URL” as the request type and click the checkmark to generate the download links.
Step 4: Identify the Correct File
Once the links are generated, look through the list for the correct file. Typically, you will see multiple options. Look for the file with the .msixbundle extension, which indicates it’s the installable package. Pay attention to the file size to ensure you’re downloading the correct version.
Step 5: Download and Install
Click the download link for the .msixbundle file. Once downloaded, open the file to install or update the app. You may get security prompts; allow the download as it’s safe.
Example: Downloading WhatsApp
For instance, if you’re downloading WhatsApp Desktop, you’ll see two files—one large and one small. The larger file (around 100MB) is the one you want. Download it, and then install it directly on your computer, no Microsoft Store required.
Method 3: Downloading Apps from a Dedicated Website
The second method uses a website specifically designed for downloading apps directly, bypassing the Microsoft Store.
Steps to Download Apps from a Third-Party Hosting Website
Step 1: Visit the App Hosting Download Website
Navigate to the uptodown website that allows you to search for Microsoft Store apps.
Step 2: Search for the App
Enter the name of the app you’re looking for (e.g., Instagram).
Step 3: Choose the Latest Version
Find the version of the app that’s available for Windows and click on the latest version.
Step 4: Download the .msixbundle File
Once on the download page, you’ll get a link to download the .msixbundle file. Although downloads might be temporarily unavailable due to maintenance, this process works the same way as the first method.
Example: Downloading Instagram
For Instagram, you’d search for it on the website, find the Windows version, and download the .msixbundle file. You’d then install the app exactly as you did in the first method.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
What if the Download is Blocked by Security Software?
Sometimes, Windows security settings or antivirus software may flag the downloaded file as a potential threat. This is common with files not directly downloaded from the Microsoft Store. You can usually bypass this by allowing the download in your security settings or marking the file as safe.
What if the File Doesn’t Install?
If the file doesn’t install, ensure that it’s the correct file type (e.g., .msixbundle) and that you have administrative privileges on your computer. If issues persist, try downloading a different version of the app or using an alternative method.
Conclusion
Whether you’ve uninstalled the Microsoft Store or simply want an alternative way to download apps, these three methods offer reliable solutions. By using UniGetUI, an online link generator, or a dedicated download site, you can install Microsoft Store apps directly on your computer. This guide covers the essential steps, ensuring you can access the apps you need without relying on the Microsoft Store itself.
FAQs
Can I Install Paid Apps Without Using the Microsoft Store?
No, these methods are designed for free apps. Paid apps require verification through the Microsoft Store for licensing, so you’ll need the store to download them.
Are These Methods Safe?
Yes, the methods outlined here are safe. However, always ensure you’re downloading files from reputable sources and verify the file sizes and extensions before installing.
What Happens If the Download Site Is Down?
If the download site is down, check back later or use the first method, which relies on UniGetUI, a different tool.
Do These Methods Work on Windows 11?
Yes, these methods work on both Windows 10 and Windows 11, as long as you can access the necessary websites and download the required files.
Can I Reinstall the Microsoft Store?
Yes, you can reinstall the Microsoft Store using PowerShell commands or through other Microsoft-provided methods if you decide to restore it.
