How to fix the error of not being able to install software on Windows

Why can't you install apps or software on Windows 10/11? Here’s everything you need to know about how to fix software not installing errors on Windows.

Table of Contents

1. Restart the Computer
2. Check Application Installation Settings
3. Free Up Storage Space
4. Run the Installer with Admin Rights
5. Check 64-bit Compatibility of Your App

1. Restart the Computer

This is a common troubleshooting step but essential for a reason. The software installation issue may stem from a temporary problem. Before diving into more in-depth fixes, try restarting your system first.

If you still cannot install the software thereafter, proceed to the following methods.

2. Check Application Installation Settings

Windows 10 and Windows 11 permit the installation of traditional desktop applications and programs from the Microsoft Store. Certain settings can limit your capabilities, restricting app installations to only the Store. Therefore, verify these settings first.

Navigate to Settings > Apps > Apps & features. You'll find the Choose where to get apps section at the top. If the drop-down menu reads The Microsoft Store only (recommended), you will not be able to install apps from other sources.

Modify this setting to Anywhere (or Anywhere, but let me know if there's a comparable app in the Microsoft Store if preferred). This adjustment will enable you to install the software freely.

If you're using an older version of Windows 10, check for a similar setting in Settings > Update & Security > For developers. Within this menu, ensure Sideload apps is selected. Selecting Microsoft Store apps may restrict your installation options further.

If you are trying to install an app that requires this setting to be enabled, please ensure that it is from a trustworthy source. Installing software from unknown sources can jeopardize your computer's security.

3. Free Up Storage Space on Your PC

Limited disk space can cause installation failures. While smaller applications might install without issue, larger programs such as Microsoft Office or Adobe products, which require several GB, necessitate ample free space. Regularly check and remove unnecessary files to maintain sufficient storage.

4. Run the Installer with Admin Rights

Windows User Account Control (UAC) grants your account admin rights only as necessary. Most software installations require these rights, hence the UAC prompt during new app installations.

If you're installing an app limited to your current user, admin rights might not be necessary. However, installations meant for all users will require admin approval. Always keep UAC enabled to ensure that you receive permission notifications.

In some cases, UAC browsing may not function correctly, and you might encounter errors indicating that the installer cannot access a specific folder. In such scenarios, you must manually run the installer with admin rights.

To do this, close any open installer dialog, right-click the installation file, and select Run as administrator. After granting admin rights, try the installation once again.

5. Check Your App's 64-bit Compatibility

Many applications support both 32-bit and 64-bit versions. A 64-bit application will only run on a 64-bit Windows version, while 32-bit apps are compatible with both architectures due to their backward compatibility.

Typically, the software automatically selects the right version for installation. However, keep an eye on the software download pages for the appropriate version for your system—look for X86 for 32-bit and x64 for 64-bit Windows.

Conclusion

In summary, these are the simplest but most effective methods to troubleshoot installation errors on Windows. Implementing these solutions should help alleviate your installation issues. We hope this article proves useful to you!