SideStore

What is SideStore?

• SideStore is an alternative sideloading tool for iOS. Unlike AltStore, SideStore doesn’t require AltServer to be running on your computer all the time — once it’s paired, you can install apps directly from your iPhone or iPad over Wi-Fi.

Why do I need AltServer to install SideStore?

• AltServer is required for the initial installation of SideStore because it’s the only way to sideload apps onto iOS devices without jailbreaking. Once SideStore is installed and paired with your computer (using a pairing file), you no longer need AltServer, SideStore can refresh and install apps directly on your iPhone or iPad over Wi-Fi.

What is a pairing file, and why do I need it?

• A pairing file is a small file that links your iPhone/iPad with your computer. It’s required so SideStore can refresh apps over Wi-Fi without needing to plug in every time.

Why do I need LocalDevVPN?

• SideStore uses a specially designed VPN (LocalDevVPN) to “trick” iOS into allowing apps signed with your personal development certificate to be installed and refreshed. The VPN doesn’t route your internet traffic, it only handles the signing and refreshing process.

Will the VPN track my activity?

• No. The VPN profile used by SideStore (LocalDevVPN) does not monitor or route your internet traffic. It only exists to allow SideStore to install and refresh your sideloaded apps.

I get an error saying “Untrusted Developer.” What should I do?

• On your iPhone or iPad, go to Settings > General > VPN & Device Management, tap your Apple ID under Developer App, and select Trust.

How do I get the pairing file?

• You’ll need to use idevice pair (a helper tool on your computer) to generate the pairing file. Once created, you can import it into SideStore on your iOS device.

Do I need to re-pair every week?

• No. You only need to generate and import a pairing file once, unless you reset your device or reinstall SideStore.

Do I still need a computer after setup?

• Only for the initial pairing and installation of SideStore. After that, you can install and refresh apps directly from your device over Wi-Fi.

Why do I need to enter my Apple ID?

• Apple requires apps to be signed with an Apple ID before they can run on iOS. SideStore uses your Apple ID only for signing, it is not shared or stored by SideStore.

My app expired after 7 days. Why?

• Free Apple IDs require apps to be refreshed every 7 days. SideStore makes this easier by allowing you to refresh apps directly from your device without reconnecting to a computer.

Is the SideStore safe

• Yes. The SideStore (and AltServer) are trusted open-source tools. They do not pose any harm to your devices, and are only meant to enable the installation of apps on your iPhone or iPad.