Installing an App from Unknown Sources on Android

Overview

Android devices are designed to install apps only from the Google Play Store to ensure user safety.
However, you can manually install applications (APK files) from third-party sources by enabling Unknown Sources in your device settings.
This process is known as sideloading.

Caution:
Installing apps from unknown sources may expose your device to security risks.
Only install APKs from trusted or verified sources.

What Are “Unknown Sources”?

“Unknown sources” refer to locations outside of the Google Play Store from which APK files can be downloaded.
These apps are considered unverified by Android since they haven’t undergone Google’s official review process.

While this can be risky, it’s useful for: Private app distribution Beta testing Custom internal apps

How to Enable Unknown Sources

For Older Android Versions

 *(Android 4.0 – 7.0: Ice Cream Sandwich, Lollipop, Marshmallow, Nougat)*
  1. Open the Settings app.
  2. Tap Security.
  3. Enable the checkbox for Unknown sources.
  4. Tap OK when prompted.

  5. Select Trust to confirm your choice.

    For Newer Android Versions

    (Android 8.0 Oreo and later — including Pie, Android 10, 11, and 12)

    1. Open the Settings app.
    2. Tap Apps & notifications.
    3. Tap Special app access.
    4. Tap Install unknown apps.
    5. Choose the app (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Files) you’ll use to download the APK.
    6. Toggle Allow from this source to ON.

    Note: From Android 9.0 onwards, permissions must be granted per app (not globally).

    Installing the APK File

    1. Download the APK file from the trusted source.
    2. Locate the downloaded file in your File Manager or Downloads folder.
    3. Tap the APK file to start installation.
    4. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the process.
    5. Once installed, open the app from your home screen or app drawer.

    Summary

    Android Version Path to Enable Unknown Sources Access Type
    4.0 – 7.0 Settings → Security → Unknown sources Global
    8.0 and above Settings → Apps & notifications → Special app access → Install unknown apps → [App] → Allow from this source Per-app

    Security Recommendations

    • Download APKs only from trusted websites or developers.
    • Always scan APK files using an antivirus tool before installing.
    • Disable “Allow from this source” once installation is complete.
    • Keep your device updated with the latest Android security patches.

    How to Allow Apps from Unknown Sources on Android

    Quick Steps to Allow Unknown App Sources

    1. Open Settings and select Apps.
    2. Tap the three-dots icon.
    3. Tap Special app access.
    4. Tap Install unknown apps.
    5. Select an app.
    6. Toggle on Allow from this source.

    Step 01 : Open Settings Android 7 Settings.

    Tap the gear app icon in the app drawer or pull down the Quick Menu panel and tap the gear icon there. If you start downloading an APK in your browser before completing this method you'll see a pop-up that asks if you want to continue downloading from an unknown source. Tap Ok > Install then tap Settings to toggle on "Allow from this source." If you want to allow downloads from all sources going forward instead of just one continue with this method.

    Setting

    Step 02 : Tap Apps

    Depending on your phone manufacturer, this might say "Apps & Notifications" instead. If you're using a Samsung, tap Security and privacy instead.

    three-dots icon

    Step 03 :Tap the three-dot icon and select Special app access.

    This will be in the drop-down menu. If there's no three-dots icon, scroll down and check under the General subheader. If you're using a Samsung, tap More Security settings instead.

    Special App

    Step 04

    Tap Install unknown apps. It should be located towards the bottom third of the menu.

    Install Apps

    Step 05

    Select an app for which you want to allow the installation of unknown apps. You can only allow apps from unknown sources on an app-by-app basis. You likely want to allow it for your browser, but you may see apps like Gmail, WhatsApp, and Files by Google listed as well. If you do not see the app you are looking for, your Android does not support the downloading of APKs from that specific app. Try finding the same or a similar APK on an app that is listed, and using that app instead.

    Install

    Step 06

    Toggle the "Allow from this source" switch on Android 7 Switch On. Doing so will allow you to download APK files from the selected app. Repeat this process for any other apps where you want to enable downloads from unknown sources. Be aware that downloading apps from untrusted sources has risks, like losing data from your phone or exposing your personal data to hackers. Alternatively, download these files on your computer then transfer them to your Android. By enabling this app to download from unknown sources, you will not get a pop-up confirming the action every time.

    Android 7