If you’ve ever tried to install or run software on Windows 11 only to see a scary message saying “Publisher Could Not Be Verified,” you’re not alone. This common error appears when Windows can’t confirm the authenticity of the software’s publisher, raising a security warning to protect your device. While this ultimately keeps your PC safer, it can also be frustrating when you’re trying to install trusted applications. In this guide, you’ll learn how to safely fix this error with step-by-step solutions that work on Windows 11.
What Causes the “Publisher Could Not Be Verified” Error?
This error happens because Windows uses digital signatures to identify and verify software publishers. A digital signature is a form of electronic certification proving that the software comes from a trusted source and hasn’t been tampered with. When you download or run an application that lacks this verified certificate, or if the certificate is unrecognized, Windows issues the warning to prevent potential risks like malware or corrupted files. Understanding why this happens helps you make informed decisions about when and how to bypass the message.
How to Safely Fix the Publisher Could Not Be Verified Error on Windows 11
Method 1: Unblock the File via Properties
Usually, Windows blocks files downloaded from the internet by default as a precaution. The quickest fix is to unblock the file manually:
- Right-click the installer file (for example, .exe, .msix, or .appxbundle) and select “Properties.”
- In the “General” tab, look near the bottom for the “Security” section.
- Check the box that says “Unblock,” then click “Apply” and “OK.”
- Double-click the file again to run it.
This simple step removes the security block and resolves the warning in most cases without compromising safety.
Method 2: Install the Publisher’s Certificate Manually
If the app includes a digital signature, you can add its certificate to your trusted list:
- Right-click the installer file and open “Properties.”
- Navigate to the “Digital Signatures” tab and select “Details.”
- Click “View Certificate,” then “Install Certificate.”
- Choose “Local Machine” when the Certificate Import Wizard opens, then click “Next.”
- Select “Place all certificates in the following store,” then “Browse.”
- Pick “Trusted People” as the destination store and continue with “Next” and “Finish.”
- After installing the certificate, try running the software again. You should no longer see the warning if the certificate is valid.
Method 3: Use PowerShell to Sideload Unsigned Apps
For apps without an official digital signature, especially MSIX or APPX packages, sideloading via PowerShell is a clean solution:
- First, unblock the file using Method 1.
- Extract the contents with a tool like 7-Zip if necessary.
- Enable Developer Mode on your PC by going to Settings > Privacy & security > For developers, then toggle on Developer Mode.
- Open PowerShell as Administrator.
- Run the following command, replacing the path to match where the AppxManifest.xml file is located:
Add-AppxPackage -Register "C:\Path\To\AppxManifest.xml"
- This lets you install unsigned apps without triggering the publisher verification error.
Method 4: Modify Group Policy Settings (Advanced Users)
If you frequently deal with trusted software that triggers verification warnings, tweaking Group Policy can help:
- Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.
- Navigate to User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Attachment Manager.
- Double-click “Inclusion list for moderate risk file types,” set it to “Enabled.”
- Add file extensions like .exe to the list to disable warnings for those files.
- Apply changes and restart your computer.
Note: Use this method with caution, as it reduces Windows’ protective prompts.
How to Prevent Publisher Verification Issues on Windows 11
- Always download software from official, trusted sources like verified websites or the Microsoft Store.
- Keep your Windows system and security certificates up to date.
- Use robust antivirus and malware protection tools.
- Avoid forcing installations of unknown or suspicious applications.
Final Words
The “Publisher Could Not Be Verified” error on Windows 11 exists to protect your system from possible threats. However, it can sometimes block legitimate software from installing. Using the methods above, you can safely unblock files, install certificates, sideload unsigned apps, or adjust settings to resolve the issue while keeping your PC secure. Always exercise caution by verifying software sources and maintaining your system’s security posture for a smooth Windows experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why does Windows say publisher cannot be verified?
Windows shows the “Publisher Cannot Be Verified” message when an app lacks a valid digital signature. This security feature protects users from potentially harmful software. The error appears when Windows cannot confirm the software’s authenticity.
How do I bypass publisher not verified?
Users can bypass this error by clicking “More Info” in the warning window. Select “Run Anyway” to continue the installation. This method works for trusted applications from known sources.
Is it safe to run unverified publisher?
Running unverified publisher software carries security risks. Users should only run unverified programs from trusted sources. Microsoft recommends using verified software to maintain system security.
How do I fix Windows security publisher not verified?
Right-click the application file and select Properties. Click the Digital Signatures tab. Select Advanced Options and check “Run this program as an administrator.” Click Apply and OK to save changes.
Why does Windows 11 block exe files?
Windows 11 blocks exe files to protect users from malware and unauthorized software. The system’s SmartScreen feature identifies potentially harmful programs. This security measure prevents accidental installation of dangerous applications.
How do I allow untrusted publishers in Windows 11?
Open Windows Security settings. Select “App & Browser Control.” Choose “Smart Screen for Microsoft Edge.” Turn off “Check apps and files.” This action allows installation from untrusted publishers.
Can Windows Defender block verified publishers?
Windows Defender can block verified publishers if it detects suspicious behavior. The security system updates its threat definitions regularly. Users can add exceptions in Windows Defender settings for trusted applications.
Priya Mervana
Verified Web Security Experts
Priya Mervana is working at SSLInsights.com as a web security expert with over 10 years of experience writing about encryption, SSL certificates, and online privacy. She aims to make complex security topics easily understandable for everyday internet users.
