Windows

How to Change Default Installation Drive for Microsoft Store

Written by

Richard

Nov 15, 2023 Updated Jul 13, 2026 2 min read

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Changing the default installation drive for Microsoft Store apps in Windows 11 lets you save space on your main C: drive.

This setting tells the Microsoft Store to download and install new apps and games onto a different drive, such as a secondary SSD or HDD, instead of your system drive.

Windows 11, by default, installs everything from the Microsoft Store onto your C: drive. This can quickly fill up your primary drive, especially with large games.

By moving these installations, you gain better control over your storage and prevent your C: drive from becoming too full.

⚡ Quick Answer

Go to Settings > System > Storage > Advanced storage settings > Where new content is saved. Select your desired drive from the dropdown menu for new app installations. This ensures future downloads go to your chosen location.

Quick Answer: Change Where New Apps Save

To change where your apps install, go to Settings > System > Storage > Advanced storage settings > Where new content is saved. This setting determines the default location for new apps and games in Windows 11.

Why Change Your Default Installation Drive?

Moving Microsoft Store apps to another partition (a section of a drive) or an external drive frees up space on your main drive (C:). This helps your computer run smoothly and prevents those annoying ‘Disk Full’ warnings.

What Happens When You Change the Drive?

Changing the default installation drive only affects new Microsoft Store app installations. Apps already installed will stay on their current drives. If you remove an external drive with installed apps, those apps won’t work until the drive is reconnected.

How to Change Default Installation Location in 🪟 Windows 11

Follow these steps to update your storage settings:

Open Settings on your computer.
Go to System and select Storage.
Click Advanced storage settings.
Select Where new content is saved.
Choose your preferred drive from the dropdown menu under New apps will save to:.
Click Apply.

Using the Microsoft Store and Xbox App

The Microsoft Store and Xbox app share the same installation rules. If you use Game Pass, you can manage your game library location directly within the Xbox app. Just open the Xbox app, navigate to Profile, then Settings, and finally General.

Troubleshooting: Why is the Option Greyed Out?

If the option to change where new apps save is greyed out, it often means you need administrator permission to make changes.

Moving Already Installed Apps

You can move Microsoft Store apps without uninstalling them. Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps. Click the three dots next to an app and choose “Move” if the option appears. Keep in mind, some system apps cannot be moved.

Summary

Changing the default installation drive for Microsoft Store apps helps you manage your computer’s storage space better.

Can I install apps to an external hard drive?

Yes, you can use an external hard drive. However, ensure the drive is always connected before launching your apps. External drives can be less stable than internal ones, so avoid unplugging the drive while the computer is running to prevent data corruption or app crashes.

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Tags: #Windows 11

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About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

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