How to Fix the “Choose Where to Get Apps” Option Missing in Windows
Installing apps on your Windows device should be a straightforward process but sometimes, you may encounter difficulties, particularly when it comes to choosing where to obtain apps from. The “Choose where to get apps” option in Windows allows you to control the source of app installations.
Below, we take a look at the solutions to try when this option goes missing in the Windows Settings app.
What Is the “Choose Where to Get Apps” Option and Why Is It Missing?
The “Choose where to get apps” option in Windows allows you to control the source from which the system can download new programs on your computer. It is basically a security feature that helps prevent the installation of unwanted or potentially harmful software.
By default, Windows allows you to install apps from the Microsoft Store, which is a safe and curated marketplace.
The “Choose where to get apps” option, however, provides additional options for app installation, including:
The “Choose where to get apps” setting can be accessed in the Windows Settings app under “Apps” or “Apps & features,” depending on the version of Windows you’re using. However, if you are not able to locate it or it’s greyed out, it might be because of issues with the Microsoft Store itself (the app may be outdated or corrupt) or due to misconfigurations in the Registry Editor.
Below, we have discussed the different fixes you can try to get this option back in both Windows 10 and 11. However, before you proceed, make sure you are logged into Windows as an administrator, as some methods can only be executed with admin privileges.
1. Turn Off S Mode
Windows S mode is a streamlined version of Windows that provides better security and performance. It only allows the users to download apps from the Microsoft Store and use Microsoft Edge for browsing.
If you have S mode enabled in Windows, you might not be able to use the “Choose where to get apps” option because of that. Here is how you can disable S mode to fix the problem:
Once the process is complete, check if you can now use the desired option.
2. Modify the Registry
Alternatively, you could also modify the ConfigureAppInstallControl key in the Registry Editor. However, before you proceed, we recommendcreating a Registry backup, just to be safe.
Once that is done, proceed with the steps below:
Hopefully, upon reboot, you should be able to use the “Choose where to get apps” option.
3. Use the Group Policy Editor
You can also make the same changes in the Group Policy Editor if you are having trouble with the Registry.
Here is how you can proceed:
4. Additional Fixes to Try
If the fixes listed above have not worked for you, then there is a chance the issue is with the Microsoft Store itself.
Here are a few scenarios where Microsoft Store issues could impact the “Choose where to get apps” option:
In this case, we recommend starting by checking for Microsoft Store updates and downloading them. You can also reset the Store cache. If nothing helps, go ahead and re-register the Microsoft Store. Hopefully, one of these fixes will help you fix the underlying issue and bring the “Choose where to get apps” option back.
We have explained the steps for performing these troubleshooting methods in ourguide on fixing common Microsoft Store errors. check that you check it out for further assistance.
Control Where You Get Apps From on Windows
The “control where to get apps” option provides you the ability to download your favorite applications from anywhere on the internet. Hopefully, the solutions we have listed above will help you fix issues with this option for good.
If you encounter this problem again, it is best to reach out to the official Microsoft support team and report the issue to them. They will be able to identify the underlying problem and suggest a fix accordingly.
Get System Restore open and ready on Windows 11 with this guide.
My foolproof plan is to use Windows 10 until 2030, with the latest security updates.
Not Linux, not Windows. Something better.
Flagship price, mid-range phone.
Make sure you don’t miss these movies and shows before Netflix removes them.
Now, I actually finish the books I start.
