This is the most important part of using a free Apple ID with AltStore. The digital signature Apple gives to your apps . If the signature expires, you won't be able to open the app until it's refreshed.
To connect your iOS device to your computer initially.
Hover over and select your connected iOS device.
AltStore works by tricking your iOS device into thinking you are a developer testing your own apps. It uses your free Apple ID to sign the IPA files with a personal development certificate.
: On iOS 16 or later, go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Developer Mode and toggle it on. 2. Steps to Install the IPA File how to install ipa file using altstore
Enter your and password. (Note: Your credentials are sent directly to Apple for app-signing purposes; AltStore does not harvest them).
AltServer is the companion desktop application that manages the signing and wireless refreshing of your IPA files. For Windows Users
AltStore Ultimate Guide : IPA Install & Refresh Guide (No VPN) 25 Oct 2025 —
If you are doing this wirelessly, ensure your computer is powered on with AltServer running in the background on the same Wi-Fi network. If it fails, plug your device back into the computer via USB. This is the most important part of using
: A standard Apple ID (burner account recommended for privacy). Phase 1: Preparing Your Computer
: Free Apple developer accounts are strictly limited to 3 active sideloaded apps at one time. AltStore itself counts as one app, meaning you can install a maximum of two additional custom IPA files.
Because free developer certificates expire every , AltStore automatically refreshes your apps in the background over Wi-Fi to keep them working permanently. Prerequisites Before You Begin Before installing AltStore, you need a few things ready:
Now that AltStore is configured and fully functional, you can sideload any third-party .ipa file. To connect your iOS device to your computer initially
Launch AltServer. It will run silently in your Windows Taskbar notification area (system tray) near the clock. Step 3: Configure Your iOS Device and Computer
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Click . A notification will appear on your computer stating that AltStore is being installed. This process typically takes 1–2 minutes. Step 4: Configure Device Security Permissions
Do not download these apps from the Microsoft Store. AltStore requires the direct Apple-hosted versions to communicate with your device.
Download and install iTunes for Windows (64-bit) and iCloud for Windows. Do not use the Windows Store versions. Extract the downloaded AltStore ZIP file and run Setup.exe . Open iCloud and sign in with your Apple ID.
Launch AltServer. It will appear as an icon in your system tray (bottom right corner).