When you double-click a file type that Windows 11 does not recognise (such as a specific programmer’s code file, an obscure 3D model format, or a file missing an extension), a large pop-up box appears. It usually says “How do you want to open this file?” and prominently offers a link to “Look for an app in the Microsoft Store.”
If you are a power user who never installs applications from the Microsoft Store, this prompt is essentially useless spyware disguised as a helpful suggestion. Clicking it usually results in the Store returning zero relevant results. If you prefer to manually select the correct executable from your hard drive, you can completely remove the Store suggestion from this dialogue box.
How to Disable the Microsoft Store Prompt
You can turn off this internet-based file lookup feature using the Group Policy Editor.
- Click the Start button, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter to launch the Local Group Policy Editor. (Note: Group Policy Editor is only available in Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise editions. It is not available in Windows 11 Home).
- In the left-hand navigation pane, follow this exact folder path by expanding the folders: Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Internet Communication Management > Internet Communication settings.
- Once you have clicked on the “Internet Communication settings” folder, look at the main window on the right.
- Locate the policy named Turn off access to the Store.
- Double-click this policy to open its settings window.
- In the top-left corner of the new window, click the radio button to change the setting from “Not Configured” to Enabled. (Yes, you must “Enable” the policy to “Turn off” the feature).
- Click Apply, and then click OK.
You do not need to restart your computer. The next time you try to open an unknown file, Windows 11 will simply ask you to select a program from a list of installed apps on your hard drive, without ever suggesting you search the Microsoft Store.