When it comes to installing apps from the Microsoft Store, many users are left wondering where these apps actually reside on their Windows devices. The answer might seem straightforward, but it’s not as simple as it appears. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Microsoft Store apps and explore where they’re installed, how they’re managed, and what implications this has for users.
Understanding Microsoft Store Apps
Before we dive into the installation locations, it’s essential to understand what Microsoft Store apps are and how they differ from traditional desktop applications. Microsoft Store apps, also known as Universal Windows Platform (UWP) apps, are designed to run on multiple devices, including Windows 10, Windows 10 Mobile, Xbox One, and even HoloLens. These apps are built using the Universal Windows Platform (UWP) and are distributed through the Microsoft Store.
One of the key characteristics of Microsoft Store apps is their sandboxed environment. This means that each app runs in its own virtual container, isolated from other apps and the underlying system. This isolation provides an additional layer of security, as apps can’t access system resources or files without explicit permission.
Where Are Microsoft Store Apps Installed?
So, where do Microsoft Store apps get installed on your Windows device? The answer might surprise you. Unlike traditional desktop applications, which are installed in the C:\Program Files or C:\Program Files (x86) directories, Microsoft Store apps are installed in a different location.
When you install an app from the Microsoft Store, it gets installed in the following location:
C:\Users\<Username>\AppData\Local\Packages\
Here, <Username> is your actual Windows username. Within the Packages folder, you’ll find a series of folders, each corresponding to a specific app. For example, if you’ve installed the Netflix app, you might see a folder named Netflix-netflixapp_8wekyb3d8bbwe.
Inside this folder, you’ll find the app’s executable files, resources, and configuration files. However, don’t be tempted to tamper with these files, as this can cause the app to malfunction or even prevent it from launching.
Why Are Microsoft Store Apps Installed in the AppData Folder?
So, why does Microsoft install Store apps in the AppData folder instead of the traditional Program Files directory? There are several reasons for this:
Security: By installing apps in the AppData folder, Microsoft can maintain a higher level of security. This folder is protected by Windows, and apps can’t access system resources or files without explicit permission.
Isolation: The AppData folder provides a sandboxed environment for each app, ensuring that they don’t interfere with other apps or system components.
Per-User Installation: By installing apps in the AppData folder, Microsoft can provide a per-user installation experience. This means that each user on the same device can have their own set of installed apps, without affecting other users.
How to Manage Microsoft Store Apps
Now that you know where Microsoft Store apps are installed, let’s explore how to manage them. Microsoft provides several ways to manage Store apps, including:
Microsoft Store App Settings
You can access app settings by following these steps:
- Open the Microsoft Store app.
- Click on your profile picture in the top-right corner.
- Select Settings from the dropdown menu.
- Scroll down to the App settings section.
Here, you can configure app updates, reset apps, and even uninstall them.
Windows Settings App
You can also manage apps through the Windows Settings app:
- Press the Windows + I keys to open the Settings app.
- Click on Apps.
- Click on Apps & features.
- Find the app you want to manage and click on it.
Here, you can uninstall the app, move it to another location, or configure its settings.
Troubleshooting Microsoft Store Apps
Sometimes, Microsoft Store apps can malfunction or fail to launch. If you’re experiencing issues with an app, try the following troubleshooting steps:
Reset the App
You can reset the app by following these steps:
- Open the Microsoft Store app.
- Click on your profile picture in the top-right corner.
- Select Settings from the dropdown menu.
- Scroll down to the App settings section.
- Click on the Reset button next to the app you want to reset.
This will reset the app to its default state, deleting any user data and settings.
Reinstall the App
If resetting the app doesn’t work, you can try reinstalling it:
- Open the Microsoft Store app.
- Search for the app you want to reinstall.
- Click on the Install button.
- Wait for the app to download and install.
This will reinstall the app, potentially resolving any issues you were experiencing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Microsoft Store apps are installed in the C:\Users\<Username>\AppData\Local\Packages\ folder, providing a sandboxed environment for each app. This installation location offers several benefits, including improved security, isolation, and per-user installation. By understanding where Microsoft Store apps are installed and how to manage them, you can make the most of your Windows device and enjoy a seamless app experience.
Whether you’re a casual user or a power user, knowing the intricacies of Microsoft Store apps can help you troubleshoot issues, manage your apps more effectively, and get the most out of your Windows device.
Where are Microsoft Store apps installed on my Windows 10 device?
Microsoft Store apps are installed in the WindowsApps folder, which is located in the Program Files directory on your Windows 10 device. The full path is typically C:\Program Files\WindowsApps. This folder is hidden by default, which is why you may not have noticed it before. Note that you need administrative privileges to access this folder.
When you install an app from the Microsoft Store, it gets downloaded and extracted to this folder. The app’s executable file, along with other dependencies and resources, are stored in a subfolder with a unique name, which is used to identify the app.
Can I move the WindowsApps folder to a different location?
While it’s technically possible to move the WindowsApps folder to a different location, it’s not recommended. Microsoft does not support moving this folder, and doing so may cause issues with app functionality or even prevent them from working altogether. The WindowsApps folder is specifically designed to be in the Program Files directory, and changing its location can disrupt the way apps interact with the operating system.
Additionally, moving the WindowsApps folder can also lead to issues with app updates and installations, as the Microsoft Store relies on the default location to manage apps. It’s best to leave the folder in its default location to ensure a seamless app experience on your Windows 10 device.
How do I access the WindowsApps folder if it’s hidden?
To access the WindowsApps folder, you need to enable the “Show hidden files, folders, and drives” option in the File Explorer. To do this, open File Explorer, click on the “View” tab, and check the box next to “Hidden items” in the Show/hide section. This will allow you to see hidden files and folders, including the WindowsApps folder.
Alternatively, you can also type the full path “C:\Program Files\WindowsApps” in the File Explorer address bar to access the folder directly. Keep in mind that you need administrative privileges to access this folder, so you may be prompted to provide permission or enter administrator credentials.
Can I uninstall Microsoft Store apps from the WindowsApps folder?
It’s not recommended to manually uninstall apps by deleting the app folder from the WindowsApps directory. Instead, you should use the “Uninstall” option from the Microsoft Store or the “Apps & features” section in the Settings app. This ensures that the app is properly uninstalled, and all associated files and dependencies are removed.
Manually deleting app folders can lead to errors and residual files, which can cause issues with future app installations or updates. By using the recommended uninstallation methods, you can ensure a clean and safe removal of unwanted apps.
Can I install Microsoft Store apps on an external drive?
By default, Microsoft Store apps are installed on the system drive (typically C:), and it’s not possible to install them directly on an external drive. However, you can change the default installation location for new apps through the Microsoft Store settings.
To do this, open the Microsoft Store, click on the three dots in the top right corner, and select “Settings.” Scroll down to the “App install preferences” section and toggle the switch next to “Install new apps on” to select your preferred drive. Note that this only affects new app installations, and existing apps will remain on the system drive.
How do I troubleshoot issues with Microsoft Store apps?
If you’re experiencing issues with a Microsoft Store app, such as crashes, errors, or failure to launch, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take. First, try restarting the app or your device. If the issue persists, try uninstalling and reinstalling the app. You can also check for updates for the app, as well as Windows 10 itself, to ensure you have the latest fixes and patches.
If the issue remains, you can try resetting the app or performing a system file check (SFC) to identify and repair corrupted system files. For more complex issues, you may need to seek guidance from Microsoft support or online forums dedicated to Windows 10 and Microsoft Store apps.
Are Microsoft Store apps available on Windows 7 or 8?
No, Microsoft Store apps are exclusive to Windows 10 devices. The Microsoft Store, formerly known as the Windows Store, was introduced with Windows 8, but it offered a limited selection of apps, and the experience was not as seamless as on Windows 10.
Windows 7 and 8 users can still download and install traditional desktop applications, but they do not have access to the modern apps available on the Microsoft Store. If you’re using an older version of Windows, it’s recommended to upgrade to Windows 10 to take advantage of the latest features, including the Microsoft Store and its apps.