Microsoft Store Installation Requirement and Universal Windows Platform (UWP)
Summary: Learn about the Universal Windows Platform (UWP), Microsoft’s app platform for Windows 11 and Windows 10.
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Instructions
This article describes the Dell transition of applications to the Universal Windows Platform (UWP) using the Windows Store. Due to this change, some applications such as Waves MaxxAudio or Dell Touchpad Settings require access to the Microsoft Store to be installed.
What is UWP?
The Universal Windows Platform (UWP) is Microsoft’s app platform for Windows 11 and Windows 10. UWP is the replacement for the legacy executable file-based application processes that have been used in the past.
UWP applications are exclusively installed using the Microsoft Store.
Transitioning to UWP
To remain in compliance with Microsoft requirements for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), Dell is transitioning current 32-bit applications to the Windows Store for UWP.
As applications transition to UWP, the reference pages and Dell Driver and Downloads pages for these applications refer to the Microsoft Store to reinstall the software.
As part of the transition, some applications must be converted to UWP apps. Be advised that the apps can still be found on the Dell Support drivers and downloads page. As previously noted, these pages redirect to the Microsoft Store to complete the download. The Microsoft Store can also be searched for the application directly.
For more information about UWP apps, refer to What's a Universal Windows Platform (UWP) app?
Article Properties
Article Number: 000131351
Article Type: How To
Last Modified: 17 Jul 2025
Version: 5
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