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How to Fix “Publisher Cannot Be Verified” Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

When you try to open or install an app on Windows 11, you might see a message saying, “Publisher cannot be verified.” This warning appears to protect your computer from potentially harmful software. It means Windows cannot confirm the source of the app, so it asks for your confirmation before proceeding.

This error can be frustrating, especially if you trust the app but want to avoid security risks. Fortunately, there are several simple ways to fix this problem and safely run your program.

In this guide, we will walk you through easy, step-by-step solutions to resolve the “Publisher cannot be verified” error on Windows 11. You don’t need to be a tech expert to follow these instructions.

By the end, you will know how to bypass this message safely and understand why it happens in the first place.

Quick Note Before You Begin

  • Make sure the app you want to run is from a trusted source. Avoid running software from unknown or suspicious websites.
  • Check if your Windows 11 is up to date. Sometimes, updates fix security certificate issues.
  • Have administrator access on your PC, as some solutions require changing system settings.
  • Disable your antivirus temporarily only if you are sure the app is safe. Sometimes antivirus software can block apps incorrectly.

Step 1: Run the App as Administrator

Sometimes, simply running the app with administrator rights can bypass the warning. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Right-click on the app’s icon or setup file.
  2. Choose Run as administrator from the menu.
  3. If a User Account Control window appears, click Yes to allow.

This step helps because some apps need higher permissions to install or run properly. By running as administrator, Windows may skip the publisher verification check.

Step 2: Unblock the File in Properties

Windows sometimes blocks files downloaded from the internet. You can unblock it manually:

  1. Right-click the app or installer file and select Properties.
  2. In the General tab, look near the bottom for a checkbox or button that says Unblock.
  3. If you see it, check the box or click the button, then click Apply and OK.
  4. Try running the app again.

This process removes the “blocked” flag that Windows adds to downloaded files, helping it trust the file more.

Step 3: Adjust SmartScreen Settings

Windows SmartScreen helps protect your PC by warning about unverified apps. You can change its behavior temporarily:

  1. Open Settings by pressing Win + I.
  2. Go to Privacy & security > Windows Security > App & browser control.
  3. Under Check apps and files, select Warn or Off instead of Block.

Important: Turning off SmartScreen reduces security, so only do this if you trust the app and re-enable it afterward.

Step 4: Use Command Prompt to Run the App

If normal clicks don’t work, try running the app using Command Prompt:

  1. Press Win + S, type cmd, then right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  2. Navigate to the folder containing your app using the cd command. For example:
    3. cd C:UsersYourNameDownloads
  3. Type the app name and press Enter to run it. For example:
    4. setup.exe

This method can bypass some GUI-related restrictions and run the app directly with admin rights.

Step 5: Temporarily Disable User Account Control (UAC)

User Account Control prompts can block apps from unverified publishers. You can lower UAC settings temporarily:

  1. Press Win + S, type uac, and select Change User Account Control settings.
  2. Move the slider down to Never notify.
  3. Click OK and restart your PC.
  4. Try running the app again.
  5. After installing or running the app, it is strongly recommended to return the UAC slider to its original setting to protect your computer.

Disabling UAC reduces warnings but also lowers security, so use this option only if necessary.

Alternative Method: Add the Publisher to Trusted Publishers

If you often use software from the same publisher, adding them to your trusted publishers list can prevent warnings:

  1. Press Win + R, type certmgr.msc, and press Enter.
  2. In the Certificate Manager window, expand Trusted Publishers.
  3. Right-click on Certificates under Trusted Publishers and select All Tasks > Import.
  4. Follow the wizard to import the publisher’s certificate file (.cer or .crt).
  5. After importing, Windows will recognize this publisher as trusted.

This method is more advanced and usually used in business environments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does Windows say “Publisher cannot be verified”?

This message appears when Windows cannot confirm the digital signature of the software publisher. It means the app is not signed with a trusted certificate or the certificate is missing or invalid.

Is it safe to run apps with this warning?

Only run apps from sources you trust. If you’re unsure, do not proceed. The warning is designed to prevent malware.

Does disabling SmartScreen or UAC affect my security?

Yes. These features protect your PC from harmful software. Disable them only temporarily and re-enable after use.

Can I permanently stop this warning for a specific app?

Yes, by unblocking the file or adding the publisher’s certificate to trusted publishers. But be cautious and only do this for known and trusted software.

Why does running as administrator help?

Running as administrator gives the app higher privileges, which sometimes bypasses security prompts blocking installation or execution.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and still see the “Publisher cannot be verified” error, consider the following:

  • Download the app again from the official website to ensure the file is not corrupted or tampered with.
  • Contact the software publisher for a digitally signed version of the app.
  • Run a full antivirus scan to rule out malware interference.
  • Visit the official Microsoft support page on app installation errors: https://support.microsoft.com.

Conclusion

The “Publisher cannot be verified” error in Windows 11 is a common security feature meant to protect your PC. By following the simple steps above—from running the app as administrator to adjusting SmartScreen and UAC settings—you can safely bypass this warning when you trust the software.

Always prioritize security by verifying the source of your apps before bypassing these warnings. With patience and care, you can fix this issue and enjoy your trusted apps without unnecessary interruptions.

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