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Android: Allow Installation from Unknown Sources

Android protects users from inadvertent downloading and installing apps from locations other than the Google Play store. Even if you wanted to add our apps, they will be blocked. It blocks these installs until the user opts into/enables “Unknown sources” in Settings > Security on their device.

To install apps that you downloaded from somewhere besides the Google app store or the company that made your phone, you need to allow installation from “unknown sources“.

How to allow installation from “unknown sources” on your phone

Android® 8.x & higher

  1. From a Home screen, navigate to Settings.
  2. Tap the Apps and Notifications.
  3. Note If unavailable, tap Apps.
  4. Tap the Apps special access.
  5. Tap the Install unknown apps.
  6. Select Chrome.
  7. Tap the Allow from this source to turn it on.

Android® 7.x & lower

  1. From a Home screen, navigate to Settings.
  2. Tap Lock screen and security.
  3. Note If unavailable, tap Security.
  4. Tap the Unknown sources switch to turn on or off.
  5. To continue, review prompt then tap OK.

Since there are so many phones and Android OS versions, the process of enabling installation from unknown sources may differ, please use the links below for more information.

How to Install Apps From Unknown Sources on Android

https://www.techbout.com/install-apps-from-unknown-sources-android-54957/

How to Install Apps on Android 8.0 Without “Unknown Sources” Setting
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XIl9wPRYdEU

How To Enable Third Party App Installing On Android – Unknown Sources Tutorial
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0C8Myzgw2pA

How to Allow Unknown Sources on SAMSUNG Galaxy A11 – Install and Download Apps From Unknown Sources
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rb5ww9DS3TE

It’s important that you disable this setting once you’re done using it. To turn it off, simply toggle the setting to off.