How to Enable Permission to Install Apps from Unknown Sources

This guide explains how to enable permission for installing apps from unknown sources on Android devices, including Samsung, Xiaomi, and Huawei. It covers step-by-step instructions for different Android versions and provides safety tips for installing trusted APK and XAPK files from sources like APKDock. The article ensures users can securely sideload apps while protecting their devices.

Chloe Harper

2025-08-26

How to Enable Permission to Install Apps from Unknown Sources

Safe & Easy Guide for All Android Devices

At APKDock, we provide trusted APK files for popular games and apps. To install these apps on your Android device, you’ll need to enable "Install from Unknown Sources" — a standard Android setting that allows apps from outside the Play Store.

This step-by-step guide will show you how to safely enable that setting on any Android phone, using Samsung, Xiaomi, and Huawei as example devices.

What Are "Unknown Sources"?

By default, Android devices block app installations from outside the Play Store. This includes APK files downloaded from browsers or file managers.

“Unknown sources” simply means any app not installed through Google Play, such as:

● APKs downloaded from APKDock

● Region-restricted or geo-locked titles

● Beta apps and unreleased updates

● Internal or enterprise tools

This is a standard security feature, and you can safely enable it for specific apps you trust.

General Steps for Most Android Devices (Android 8+)

Since Android 8 (Oreo), enabling unknown apps is handled per app (e.g., Chrome, Files, etc.).

Basic Steps:

1. Open Settings

2. Go to Apps or Apps & notifications

3. Tap Special app access or Advanced

4. Select Install unknown apps

5. Choose the app (usually a browser or file manager)

6. Toggle Allow from this source to ON

You can now open the APK file and install it.

Device-Specific Examples

To help you locate the correct settings on your phone, here are real examples from popular Android brands.

1. Samsung Galaxy Devices (Example: Galaxy S23 Series, Fold6, Flip6)

Samsung devices, including the Galaxy S23, Fold6, and Flip6, are designed to block installations from unknown sources by default to protect users from potential security threats. However, if you're downloading a trusted APK from APKDock, you can safely enable this setting.

How to Enable APK Installation on Samsung Phones (One UI 6+)

1. Open the Settings app

2. Tap Security and privacy

3. Select More security settings

4. Tap Install unknown apps

5. Choose the app you’ll use to install the APK (e.g., Chrome, My Files)

6. Toggle the switch next to Allow from this source to ON

Once enabled, simply locate your downloaded APK and proceed with installation.

Security Note: Enabling this option gives the selected app permission to install APKs. We recommend disabling it again after your installation for extra safety.

All APKs on APKDock are verified and scanned for malware to ensure your device stays safe.

2. Xiaomi Devices (Example: MIUI 7)

On Xiaomi smartphones running MIUI 7, the system blocks third-party app installations by default to prevent potential security risks. To install APK files downloaded from outside the Play Store—such as from APKDock—you’ll need to manually enable the "Unknown sources" setting.

How to Enable Unknown Sources on MIUI 7:

1. Open Settings

2. Tap Additional settings

3. Select Privacy

4. Enable Unknown sources

For Newer Xiaomi Phones (MIUI 12/13/14 or HyperOS)

On modern Xiaomi devices, MIUI handles unknown app installation per app. Here’s how to enable it safely:

1. Go to Settings > Apps > Manage apps

2. Tap the ⋮ (three dots) in the top-right corner

3. Select Special permissions

4. Tap Install unknown apps

5. Choose the app (e.g., Chrome, File Manager)

6. Toggle Allow from this source to ON

3. Huawei Devices (EMUI)

Huawei uses per-app permissions for sideloading.

Steps:

1. Open Settings

2. Tap Security > More settings

3. Choose Install apps from external sources

4. Select your app (e.g., Chrome or Files)

5. Toggle Allow app installs to ON

How to Install the APK

Once you've enabled the "Install unknown apps" setting on your Android device, installing an APK file is quick and simple:

Step-by-Step:

1. Download the APK from APKDock.com

2. Open the file using your browser’s download list or a file manager

3. Tap Install when prompted

4. Once installation is complete, tap Open to launch the app or game

Tip: Installing APK vs. XAPK

In addition to standard APKs, some apps may come in XAPK format, which includes extra resources like OBB files or split APKs. These require a different installation method.