How to Allow Apps from Unknown Sources on Android

This wikiHow teaches you how to allow installation of apps from other sources than the Play Market on an Android device.

Things You Should Know

  • Open your settings app. Tap Security.
  • Check the box next to Unknown Sources.
  • Hit OK to confirm.

Steps

  1. Image titled Allow Apps from Unknown Sources on Android Step 1
    1
    Open your Android's Settings app. The Settings icon looks like a gray gear or wrench icon on your Apps list.
  2. Image titled Allow Apps from Unknown Sources on Android Step 2
    2
    Scroll down and tap Security. This menu will let you customize your device's privacy, password, and administration settings.
    • On some devices, this option may be titled Lock Screen & Security.
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  3. Image titled Allow Apps from Unknown Sources on Android Step 3
    3
    Check the box next to Unknown Sources. Turning this option on will let you install apps on your device from sources other than the Play Store. You will have to confirm your action in a pop-up box.
    • On some devices, you may need to slide a switch instead of checking a box. In this case, slide the Unknown Sources switch to On position.
  4. Image titled Allow Apps from Unknown Sources on Android Step 4
    4
    Tap OK to confirm. This will confirm your action and check the Unknown Sources box.
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Community Q&A

  • Question
    Is it safe to download?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    It depends on what you are trying to download. Be careful, though. If it is blocked by your browser, don't download it.
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About This Article

wikiHow Staff
Co-authored by:
wikiHow Staff
wikiHow Staff Writer
This article was co-authored by wikiHow Staff. Our trained team of editors and researchers validate articles for accuracy and comprehensiveness. wikiHow's Content Management Team carefully monitors the work from our editorial staff to ensure that each article is backed by trusted research and meets our high quality standards. This article has been viewed 126,725 times.
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Co-authors: 5
Updated: October 25, 2022
Views: 126,725
Categories: Android
Article SummaryX

1. Open your Settings.
2. Tap Security.
3. Check the box next to Unknown Sources.
4. Tap OK to confirm.

Did this summary help you?
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