SideStore is a convenient alternative for sideloading apps on iOS devices, allowing you to install apps that are not available in the official App Store. While traditional sideloading methods require jailbreaking or using third-party tools that rely on Apple’s revoked certificates, SideStore works without these hassles. This guide will walk you through the process of installing SideStore on a Windows PC, so you can manage apps efficiently on your iPhone or iPad.
What is SideStore?
SideStore is an iOS app that lets you sideload and run apps on your device without relying on Apple’s App Store. It uses a method called “on-device signing,” meaning the apps are signed locally on your device using a personal Apple ID. This prevents Apple from revoking the certificates, making it a more stable method for sideloading.
One of the key advantages of SideStore is that it allows you to install apps without jailbreaking your device, and it’s compatible with the latest iOS versions. However, you still need a Windows PC to perform the installation.
Pre-Requisites
Before you start installing SideStore, make sure you have the following:
1. Windows PC: Ensure your Windows machine is running Windows 10 or later.
2. iPhone or iPad: Ensure the device is running iOS 14 or later. Some features may not work on older iOS versions.
3. iTunes: Download and install iTunes from Apple’s official site. Avoid using the Microsoft Store version.
4. AltServer: SideStore requires AltServer to work. This tool runs on your PC to help you install and manage apps on iOS.
5. Apple ID: A valid Apple ID (free or paid) is needed to sign apps for sideloading.
Step-by-Step Guide to Install SideStore on Windows
Step 1: Install iTunes and iCloud
Before anything else, make sure you have iTunes and iCloud installed on your Windows PC. These are necessary for connecting your iPhone or iPad to your computer and transferring apps. Follow the steps below:
1. Download iTunes: Go to the [Apple iTunes download page](https://www.apple.com/itunes/download/) and download the latest version for Windows. Install it and ensure it’s the standard desktop version, not the Microsoft Store version.
2. Install iCloud: Download iCloud for Windows from Apple’s official website. Sign in with your Apple ID to set it up.
Step 2: Download AltServer
AltServer is the software you’ll use to sideload SideStore onto your iPhone or iPad. Follow these steps:
1. Download AltServer: Visit the [official AltServer website](https://altstore.io/) and download the Windows version.
2. Install AltServer: Once downloaded, run the installer and follow the instructions to complete the installation.
Step 3: Connect Your iPhone or iPad to Your PC
After setting up AltServer, connect your iPhone or iPad to your Windows PC using a USB cable. Make sure the connection is stable because any disconnection during the installation process can result in errors.
1. Trust the Computer: When you connect the device, a prompt may appear asking you to trust the computer. Tap Trust on your device and enter your passcode to authorize the connection.
2. Keep iTunes Running: iTunes needs to recognize your device for the installation process, so keep it running in the background.
Step 4: Install AltStore on Your iOS Device
Now that your device is connected to the PC, use AltServer to install AltStore, which is necessary for running SideStore.
1. Launch AltServer: Find the AltServer icon in your system tray (bottom-right corner of the Windows taskbar). Right-click the icon, and hover over Install AltStore.
2. Select Your Device: From the list, select your connected iPhone or iPad.
3. Enter Apple ID: AltServer will ask for your Apple ID and password. Enter the credentials to sign the app (this is necessary because Apple limits sideloading to personal developer accounts).
4. Install AltStore: AltStore will now be installed on your device. You should see the app icon on your home screen once the installation is complete.
Step 5: Trust the AltStore Certificate
To run AltStore and SideStore apps on your iPhone or iPad, you’ll need to trust the developer certificate.
1. Go to Settings: On your iPhone, navigate to Settings > General > Device Management or Profiles.
2. Trust the Certificate: Find the profile associated with your Apple ID and tap Trust to allow apps signed with that ID to run on your device.
Step 6: Install SideStore via AltStore
Now that you have AltStore installed and running, you can use it to sideload SideStore.
1. Download the SideStore IPA file: Visit the official [SideStore GitHub repository](https://github.com/SideStore/SideStore) and download the latest IPA file of SideStore to your PC.
2. Open AltStore: Launch AltStore on your iPhone or iPad.
3. Install SideStore: Tap on the My Apps tab in AltStore and press the + icon in the top-left corner. Navigate to the downloaded SideStore IPA file and select it. AltStore will now install SideStore on your device.
Step 7: Launch SideStore
Once SideStore is installed, it will appear on your home screen. You can now use it to sideload other apps directly onto your iPhone or iPad, without needing to connect to a PC every time.
Troubleshooting Tips
– Error Signing Apps: If you encounter errors when signing apps, try re-entering your Apple ID credentials, ensuring a stable connection between your device and PC.
– App Expiration: SideStore apps expire after 7 days if you are using a free Apple ID. You’ll need to re-sign them using AltStore before this happens.
– AltStore Not Appearing: If AltStore doesn’t appear in your system tray, try reinstalling it or checking your firewall settings to ensure the app isn’t blocked.
Installing SideStore on your iOS device using a Windows PC is a relatively straightforward process, thanks to AltServer and AltStore. By following the steps outlined above, you can enjoy sideloading apps without the limitations of Apple’s App Store or the need for jailbreaking. SideStore provides a more permanent and stable way to install apps, making it a great tool for advanced iPhone users who want more control over their devices.
