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The Ultimate Guide to Troubleshooting AltStore
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ultimateguidetoaltstore.md

The Ultimate Guide to Troubleshooting AltStore

Having issues with AltStore? This is the right place for you.

Wi-Fi Sideloading/Refreshing Is Not Working

  • Check that your Mac or PC and your device are connected to the same network.

  • Check that iTunes/Finder Wi-Fi Sync is turned on.

    1. Plug in your device to your computer.
    2. Launch iTunes (or Finder on Catalina and later).
    3. Select your device in the sidebar or top bar.
    4. Scroll down and look for "Sync with this iDevice over Wi-Fi". Check the box.

    Picture of Wi-Fi Checkbox

    1. Hit Apply in the bottom right.

    Picture of Apply Button

    1. Check that AltStore is sideloading/refreshing over Wi-Fi by unplugging your device from your computer.

  • Check that the required helper apps and dependencies are running on the computer.

    1. On a Mac, check that AltServer and the Mail app are running. On a PC, check that AltServer and the iCloud app are running, and that Bonjour is installed.
    2. Restart each of those apps.
    3. If the problem persists, restart your Mac or PC.

  • Check that AltServer is broadcasting over Bonjour to your device.

    1. Download this app on your device. It will allow you to browse Bonjour services on your network.
    2. Check for _altserver._tcp. in the list. If it appears, tap it. It should display your Mac or PC's name.
    3. If you see this, then AltServer is running and should be working properly. If not, try troubleshooting with the above methods.

  • Check that you are not on a school or work network.

    • These networks are usually spread across multiple networks, which can cause issues with Bonjour and trying to refresh over Wi-Fi.

If all else fails, you can always plug your phone directly into your computer via USB, and sideload/refresh. Of course, this is not as convenient as Wi-Fi sideloading/refreshing, but it can get the job done and is usually more reliable.

Cannot Install New Apps

  • Check that you have App IDs available.

    1. Open the AltStore app on your device.
    2. Go to My Apps.
    3. Check that you have App IDs remaining.
    • If you have 0 App IDs remaining, you need to wait 1 week for any unused App IDs to expire.

  • Check that you have no offloaded apps.

    1. Go to Settings > iTunes & App Stores > Turn off "Offload Unused Apps".
    2. Go to your device's home screen, and check for apps that have a cloud icon next to them.
    3. If you find any with cloud icons, delete them, or tap them to reinstall them. Any data for them will be lost if you delete them.
    4. Try installing a new app with AltStore.

  • Check that you are not using the same Apple ID for multiple devices with AltStore.

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