The Windows Store, introduced with Windows 8, allows users to download and install applications directly from Microsoft's repository. However, in certain scenarios, such as enterprise environments or on shared computers, administrators may want to disable access to the Windows Store to prevent users from installing unauthorized applications. This article will guide you through the process of disabling the Windows Store in Windows 8 using Group Policy Editor and Registry Editor.

Method 1: Using Group Policy Editor

Step 1: Open Group Policy Editor

1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type gpedit.msc and press Enter to open the Local Group Policy Editor.

Step 2: Navigate to the Store Policy

1. In the Local Group Policy Editor, navigate to the following path:

   Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Windows Components -> Store

Step 3: Disable the Store Application

1. In the Store folder, locate the policy named "Turn off the Store application".
2. Double-click on this policy to open its properties.
3. Select Enabled to disable the Windows Store.
4. Click Apply, then OK to save the changes.

Step 4: Update Group Policy

1. Open the Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Type the following command to force an update to the group policy settings:

   gpupdate /force

3. Press Enter.

Method 2: Using Registry Editor

Step 1: Open Registry Editor

1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type regedit and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.

Step 2: Navigate to the Store Registry Key

1. In the Registry Editor, navigate to the following path:

   HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\WindowsStore

Step 3: Create a New DWORD Value

1. If the WindowsStore key does not exist, right-click on Microsoft, select New -> Key, and name it WindowsStore.
2. Right-click on the WindowsStore key, select New -> DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it RemoveWindowsStore.
3. Double-click on RemoveWindowsStore and set its value to 1.

Step 4: Restart the Computer

1. Close the Registry Editor.
2. Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

Conclusion

By following the steps above, you can disable the Windows Store in Windows 8, preventing users from accessing and installing applications through it. This can help maintain control over the software environment, especially in managed or shared settings.