1. Open GiliSoft EXE Lock
Start EXE Lock on the Windows PC where Store app access needs to be controlled.
Control Microsoft Store and UWP App Launches
Windows users increasingly install utilities, media apps, communication tools, games, and productivity software through the Microsoft Store. These apps may not appear like ordinary desktop EXE programs, so they need a dedicated management view.
GiliSoft EXE Lock separates Desktop Apps (EXE) from Store Apps (UWP). In the Store Apps list, you can search detected targets, review package or identifier details, select apps, and apply the same launch-control policy used for protected desktop software.
Recommended choice: use GiliSoft EXE Lock when supported Microsoft Store apps should be blocked or require approval before opening on a shared Windows PC.
How to Lock a Microsoft Store App
2. Select Store Apps (UWP)
Open the dedicated Store Apps list instead of the Desktop Apps (EXE) area.
3. Find the target app
Search the detected list by app name, review its path or package identifier, and select the Store app that needs protection.
4. Add or drag the app target
Use the available app controls or drag a supported target into the protected apps area.
5. Choose the lock policy
Use Password Verification for approved access or Direct Block when the Store app should not run.
6. Test and review logs
Launch the app to confirm the policy, then check blocked attempts and recent intercept records on the dashboard.
Why Store Apps Need a Separate App List
Store apps use package identities
Modern Windows apps may be represented by package names or identifiers rather than a familiar desktop shortcut and EXE path.
Detected apps are easier to review
The Store Apps view lists detected targets with app names and path or identifier information for clearer selection.
Desktop and Store apps stay organized
Separate management areas reduce confusion when one PC contains both traditional software and Microsoft Store apps.
The same policy controls launch access
After selection, supported Store apps can use password verification or direct block policies like desktop targets.
Ways to Control Microsoft Store Apps
Require a password before launch
Use Password Verification when parents, administrators, or supervisors may still approve access.
Block the app completely
Use Direct Block when the selected Store app should not start on the computer.
Select locked or unlocked apps
Use list filters and selection controls to review which detected Store apps are currently protected.
Track blocked attempts
Use the dashboard and logs to see whether users attempted to launch a protected Store app.
Common Microsoft Store App Lock Scenarios
Block Store games on family PCs
Restrict selected games while leaving school, communication, or productivity apps available.
Control entertainment apps at work
Prevent unrelated media and entertainment apps from opening on front-desk, support, or shared office computers.
Protect communication apps
Require approval before selected Store-based messaging or collaboration apps can open saved accounts.
Keep school PCs focused
Allow approved educational software while restricting Store apps that distract from lessons or lab tasks.
Related Windows App Lock Guides
Lock desktop apps on Windows 11
For traditional desktop software, see how to lock desktop apps on Windows 11.
Block programs from running
For direct program restrictions, read how to block programs from running on Windows.
Password protect EXE files
For executable programs, see how to password protect an EXE file.
View EXE Lock features
See the complete product overview for GiliSoft EXE Lock.
Microsoft Store App Lock FAQ
Can I lock Microsoft Store apps on Windows?
Yes. The new EXE Lock interface includes a Store Apps (UWP) area for supported modern Windows app targets.
Can I require a password before a Store app opens?
Yes. Choose Password Verification when authorized users may open the protected app after entering the password.
Can I block a Store app completely?
Yes. Choose Direct Block when the selected app should be prevented from launching.
Can I keep important system apps unlocked?
Use the whitelist and system-protected entries to keep approved and critical targets away from the lock list.
Lock supported Microsoft Store apps before they launch
Use GiliSoft EXE Lock to apply password verification, direct block policies, whitelist control, and launch logs to supported Store Apps (UWP).
Buy EXE Lock