To download and install an app on a laptop, get the installer from the official source, either the Microsoft Store on Windows or the App Store on Mac, or the developer’s own website, then run the downloaded file and follow the on-screen setup steps. This applies whether you’re on Windows or macOS, though the exact steps differ slightly.
Downloading Apps on Windows
1. Open the Microsoft Store from the Start menu, or visit the developer’s official website.
2. Search for the app or locate its download link.
3. Click Get or Download, then wait for the file to finish downloading.
4. If you downloaded an .exe file, double-click it and follow the installation wizard.
5. Launch the app from the Start menu once installation completes.
Additionally, always check the publisher name and file size before running an installer from outside the Microsoft Store, since this confirms you’re installing genuine software.
Downloading Apps on a MacBook
1. Open the App Store from the Dock or Launchpad.
2. Search for the app you want.
3. Click Get (or the price for paid apps), then authenticate with Touch ID or your Apple ID password.
4. The app installs automatically and appears in Launchpad.
Furthermore, some Mac apps are distributed as .dmg files outside the App Store; in that case, double-click the file, drag the app icon into the Applications folder, then eject the disk image.
Installing Software From a Developer’s Website
Not every application is available through an app store. Consequently, many desktop programs like browsers, creative tools, and business software are downloaded directly as .exe (Windows) or .dmg (Mac) files from the developer’s site, then installed by running the downloaded file and following the prompts.
Staying Safe When Installing Apps
Only download software from official stores or the developer’s verified website. In contrast, third-party download sites often bundle unwanted extra software with the installer, so it’s best to avoid them. Always check the publisher’s name in the installer prompt before granting permission to make changes to your device.
Fixing Common Installation Problems
“Windows protected your PC” warning
This appears for unsigned or less common apps. If you trust the source, click More info, then Run anyway to proceed.
App won’t open after installing on Mac
Go to System Settings, then Privacy & Security, and look for a message allowing the app to open, since macOS blocks apps from unidentified developers by default.
Verifying a Download Before Installing
Before running any installer downloaded from outside an official app store, it’s worth checking the file’s digital signature and publisher name, which most operating systems display during installation. Additionally, comparing the file size listed on the developer’s official download page against what you actually downloaded can catch a corrupted or tampered file before it’s too late.
Using a Package Manager for Faster Installs
Advanced users on Windows can use a package manager like Winget, and Mac users can use Homebrew, to install and update common applications through the command line instead of manually downloading each installer. Therefore, this approach can save time when setting up a new laptop with several familiar applications at once.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install apps on a laptop without an app store?
Yes. You can download installer files directly from a developer’s official website and run them manually on both Windows and Mac laptops.
Do I need an account to download apps on a laptop?
For app stores, yes, you’ll need a Microsoft account or Apple ID. For installers downloaded from a website, no account is required.
Why does my laptop block an app I’m trying to install?
Windows and macOS both include built-in protections that flag unsigned or unrecognized software. You can bypass this only if you trust the source, using the “Run anyway” or Privacy & Security settings.
How do I uninstall an app I no longer need?
On Windows, go to Settings, then Apps, then Installed apps, and select Uninstall. On Mac, drag the app from Applications to the Trash.
Need more device help? See our App Guides section, browse Fix & Support articles, or read how to download apps on iPhone XR for mobile devices.
