How To Find The Microsoft Store Apps Install Folder On Windows 11
Introduction
Microsoft Store apps on Windows 11 are installed differently from traditional desktop programs. Unlike standard software that usually installs in folders like Program Files, Microsoft Store apps are stored in protected system directories with restricted permissions. This security-focused design helps protect app files from accidental deletion, malware, and unauthorized changes. However, many users may still need to locate these installation folders for troubleshooting, backup purposes, storage management, or advanced customization.
Finding the Microsoft Store apps install folder on Windows 11 can be confusing because these apps are typically hidden inside protected directories such as WindowsApps. Access is restricted by default, which means even administrators may need to change permissions before viewing the contents.
This guide explains multiple methods to find Microsoft Store app install locations on Windows 11 safely and effectively. Whether you are trying to locate game files, troubleshoot apps, free storage, or simply understand where Windows stores modern apps, this article covers everything in easy-to-follow steps.
Understanding Where Microsoft Store Apps Are Installed
By default, Microsoft Store apps are usually stored in the following folder:
C:\Program Files\WindowsApps
This folder is:
- Hidden by default
- Protected by Windows security settings
- Owned by the TrustedInstaller system account
- Restricted even for administrators
Each app is stored inside its own package folder, often named with:
- App publisher
- Version number
- Architecture type
For example:
Microsoft.WindowsCalculator_11.2309.9.0_x64__8wekyb3d8bbwe
Because of this structure, locating the exact app folder may require additional steps.
Why Microsoft Store Apps Use Protected Folders
Microsoft designed the WindowsApps folder to:
- Prevent accidental file deletion
- Improve app security
- Isolate apps from system files
- Support app sandboxing
- Manage updates automatically
- Reduce malware risks
This means users should be careful when accessing or modifying files inside these folders.
Method 1: Show Hidden Items in File Explorer
Before accessing the install folder, you need to make hidden folders visible.
Steps:
- Open File Explorer
- Click View on the top menu
- Select Show
- Click Hidden items
This allows hidden system folders to appear, including WindowsApps.
Important:
Even after enabling hidden items, you may still receive access denied messages when opening WindowsApps.
Method 2: Access the WindowsApps Folder Directly
Steps:
- Open File Explorer
- Navigate to:
C:\Program Files
- Look for the WindowsApps folder
- Double-click it
Expected Result:
You will likely see a permission warning.
This is normal because the folder is protected.
Method 3: Take Ownership of the WindowsApps Folder
To fully access the folder, you must change ownership.
Steps:
- Right-click WindowsApps
- Select Properties
- Go to the Security tab
- Click Advanced
- Next to Owner, click Change
- Enter your Windows username
- Click Check Names
- Click OK
- Enable:
- Replace owner on subcontainers and objects
- Click Apply
- Confirm prompts
Result:
You should now have permission to open and browse the folder.
Warning:
Changing ownership may affect security. Avoid deleting or modifying files unless necessary.
Method 4: Use PowerShell to Locate Specific Microsoft Store Apps
PowerShell provides a safer and easier way to identify app installation paths.
Steps:
- Right-click Start
- Select Terminal (Admin)
- Run:
Get-AppxPackage *appname* | Select InstallLocation
Example:
Get-AppxPackage *calculator* | Select InstallLocation
Output:
C:\Program Files\WindowsApps\Microsoft.WindowsCalculator_…
Benefits:
- No manual folder searching
- Faster results
- Exact install path
- Safer than changing permissions
Method 5: Use Settings to Find App Storage Information
Although Settings may not show the full install path, it helps identify installed apps and storage usage.
Steps:
- Press Windows + I
- Go to Apps
- Select Installed apps
- Find the Microsoft Store app
- Click the three-dot menu
- Select Advanced options
Information Available:
- App size
- Reset options
- Background permissions
- File associations
This method is useful for app management but limited for direct folder access.
Method 6: Check Secondary Install Drives
If you configured Microsoft Store to install apps on another drive, the WindowsApps folder may also exist there.
Example Locations:
- D:\WindowsApps
- E:\WindowsApps
Steps:
- Open the alternate drive
- Enable hidden items
- Locate WindowsApps
- Adjust permissions if required
Tip:
Go to:
Settings > System > Storage > Advanced storage settings > Where new content is saved
This helps identify default installation locations.
Method 7: Use Command Prompt
Command Prompt can also help locate folders.
Command:
dir "C:\Program Files\WindowsApps"
This lists folder contents if permissions are available.
Understanding Folder Names Inside WindowsApps
Each app folder typically includes:
- Publisher name
- App name
- Version
- CPU architecture
- Package ID
Example:
SpotifyAB.SpotifyMusic_1.220.1127.0_x64__zpdnekdrzrea0
Common Architecture Labels:
- x64 = 64-bit
- x86 = 32-bit
- arm64 = ARM systems
Knowing this helps identify specific applications.
Common Reasons to Find Microsoft Store Install Folders
Troubleshooting
You may need to inspect files when apps malfunction.
Backup
Some users want to preserve app files before reinstalling Windows.
Storage Management
Large apps or games may consume significant disk space.
Modding or Customization
Advanced users may access files for supported modifications.
Security Audits
Checking installed app files may help detect issues.
Risks of Editing WindowsApps Folder
Directly modifying app files can:
- Break app functionality
- Prevent updates
- Cause launch failures
- Trigger permission errors
- Reduce system stability
Best Practice:
Only access files when necessary, and avoid deleting anything unless you fully understand its purpose.
How to Restore Default Ownership
If needed, you can return ownership to TrustedInstaller.
Steps:
- Open Properties
- Security > Advanced
- Change Owner
- Enter:
NT SERVICE\TrustedInstaller
- Apply changes
This restores default security protections.
Alternative: Using Third-Party Tools
Some file managers or app package viewers can help locate app files more easily.
Examples:
- Process Explorer
- Package managers
- Advanced file explorers
Caution:
Only use trusted software from reliable sources.
How to Move Microsoft Store Apps to Another Drive
Windows 11 allows moving many Store apps.
Steps:
- Open Settings
- Go to Apps > Installed apps
- Select the app
- Click Move (if available)
- Choose another drive
Benefits:
- Saves SSD space
- Improves organization
- Better for large games
Troubleshooting Access Denied Errors
Common Fixes:
- Verify administrator account
- Recheck folder ownership
- Restart File Explorer
- Use PowerShell instead
- Disable antivirus temporarily if blocking access
If Folder Still Cannot Be Opened:
Some system protections may remain in place.
In most cases, PowerShell is the safer option.
Best Practices for Managing Microsoft Store App Files
Do:
- Use PowerShell for safer access
- Backup before major changes
- Keep permissions secure
- Use official Windows settings
- Verify app names carefully
Avoid:
- Deleting package folders manually
- Renaming files
- Changing permissions unnecessarily
- Editing critical system apps
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are Microsoft Store apps installed on Windows 11?
Most apps are stored in:
C:\Program Files\WindowsApps
Why can’t I open the WindowsApps folder?
The folder is protected by Windows security permissions.
Is it safe to change WindowsApps permissions?
Yes, but only if done carefully. Avoid unnecessary modifications.
Can I move Microsoft Store apps?
Yes, many apps can be moved through Settings.
How do I find a specific app folder quickly?
Use PowerShell:
Get-AppxPackage *appname* | Select InstallLocation
Can deleting WindowsApps files uninstall apps?
Manual deletion is not recommended and may cause problems.
Final Thoughts
Finding the Microsoft Store apps install folder on Windows 11 may seem complicated at first due to Windows security protections, but it becomes much easier once you understand where these apps are stored and how permissions work.
For most users, PowerShell is the safest and most efficient method to locate app install directories without altering sensitive system settings. Advanced users who need direct file access can take ownership of the WindowsApps folder, though caution is strongly advised.
Understanding Microsoft Store app locations can help with troubleshooting, storage management, backups, and system customization. However, because these folders are protected for security reasons, changes should always be made carefully.
By following the methods in this guide, you can confidently locate Microsoft Store app installation.
