What Is Sideloadly?
Sideloadly is a desktop app that installs IPA files on iOS devices without requiring jailbreak or App Store approval. The tool works as a bridge between your computer and iPhone, handling code signing and app deployment automatically.
Sideloading means installing applications from sources other than the official App Store. Unlike Android’s straightforward APK installation, iOS requires proper code signing and provisioning profiles for every app.
Sideloadly simplifies this complex process by:
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Automatically signing IPA files with your Apple ID credentials
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Handling certificate generation and provisioning profile creation
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Managing device registration and app deployment
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Providing a drag-and-drop interface for installation
When you load an IPA file into Sideloadly, the tool communicates with Apple’s developer servers to generate a valid signing certificate tied to your Apple ID. It then re-signs the app bundle with your certificate, creates a provisioning profile including your device’s UDID, and transfers the signed app to your iPhone or iPad via USB connection.youtube
Sideloadly operates entirely on your local computer. Your Apple ID credentials authenticate directly with Apple’s servers, not with third-party intermediaries.
Supported Devices and iOS Versions:
Sideloadly offers exceptional compatibility across iOS versions and device types, making it one of the most versatile sideloading tools available.
iOS version compatibility:
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iOS 7.0 through iOS 26.1 (latest versions)
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iPadOS 13 through current releases
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tvOS support for Apple TV devices
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Beta iOS versions with latest Sideloadly updates
Device compatibility:
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All iPhone models from iPhone 4s onward
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All iPad models including iPad mini and iPad Pro
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iPod Touch (5th generation and later)
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Apple TV 4th generation and Apple TV 4K
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Apple Silicon Macs for iOS app testing
Computer requirements:
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Windows: Windows 7, 8, 10, 11 (32-bit and 64-bit)
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macOS: macOS 10.12 Sierra and later
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iTunes installed (non-Microsoft Store version for Windows)youtube
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Functional USB port for device connection
The broad compatibility makes Sideloadly suitable for legacy devices running older iOS versions and cutting-edge devices on the latest beta releases.
Limitations of Sideloadly Free vs Paid Apple IDs
Understanding account-type restrictions helps you plan app installations and manage expectations.
Free Apple ID limitations:
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7-day signing validity: Apps expire exactly one week after installation
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3-app maximum: Only three sideloaded apps can coexist on your device simultaneously
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Basic capabilities only: Advanced features like push notifications unavailable
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Manual re-signing required: Must reconnect and reinstall weekly to continue using apps
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App ID change limits: Maximum 10 bundle identifier modifications per week
Paid Developer account benefits ($99/year):
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1-year signing validity: Apps remain functional for 365 days without reinstallation
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Unlimited app installs: No restriction on number of simultaneous sideloaded apps
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All capabilities enabled: Push notifications, CloudKit, Apple Pay, etc.
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TestFlight access: Distribute beta versions to up to 10,000 testers
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Team collaboration: Share provisioning profiles with other developers
Practical workflow implications:
With a free Apple ID, you must reconnect your device to Sideloadly every 7 days and reinstall each expired app. The app icons remain on your home screen, but tapping them shows “Unable to verify app” errors. This cycle works acceptably for occasional testing but becomes tedious for regular app usage.
Preparing Your iPhone or iPad Before Installing IPA Files
Proper preparation prevents common installation failures and saves troubleshooting time. Complete these steps before attempting your first Sideloadly installation.
Required Tools (Apple ID, Computer, Lightning Cable)
Gather these essential items before starting the sideloading process:
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Valid Apple ID (free or paid developer account)
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Two-factor authentication enabled (recommended for security)
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Password readily available for credential entry
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App-specific password if using 2FA (generated through appleid.apple.com)
Computer specifications:
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Windows PC (7/8/10/11) or Mac (macOS 10.12+)
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Administrator access for software installation
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At least 2GB free storage space for tools and temporary files
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Stable internet connection for Apple server authentication
Required software installations:
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iTunes (Windows users must download non-Microsoft Store version)youtube
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iCloud for Windows (Windows users only)youtube
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Sideloadly application from official website
Connection hardware:
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Authentic Apple Lightning or USB-C cable
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Avoid cheap third-party cables that cause connection failures
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USB hub compatibility varies; direct port connection recommended
iOS device preparation:
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Device charged above 50% battery to prevent mid-installation interruptions
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iOS updated to compatible version (check Settings > General > Software Update)
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Sufficient storage space (at least 2GB free for installation process)
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Developer Mode enabled on iOS 16+ devices
Trusting Developer Certificates on iOS
Certificate trust authorization is mandatory before sideloaded apps launch successfully.
Why trust is required:
iOS treats all non-App Store applications as potentially untrusted by default. This security measure protects users from unauthorized app installations. After Sideloadly installs an app, iOS requires explicit user confirmation before allowing execution.
Trust procedure (complete after installation):
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Open Settings app on your iOS device
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Navigate to General > VPN & Device Management
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Locate your Apple ID email under “Developer App” section
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Tap the Apple ID profile to view details
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Select “Trust [Your Apple ID]” button
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Confirm by tapping “Trust” in the popup dialog
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Return to home screen and launch the app normally
Trust profile characteristics:
The developer profile persists across multiple app installations using the same Apple ID. Once trusted, all future apps signed with that Apple ID launch without additional trust prompts until certificate expiration.
Developer Mode requirement (iOS 16+):
Apple introduced Developer Mode as an additional security layer in iOS 16. Enable it through:
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Settings > Privacy & Security > Developer Mode
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Toggle Developer Mode to On
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Restart your device when prompted
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Confirm enabling Developer Mode after restart
Without Developer Mode enabled, sideloaded apps fail to install on iOS 16 and later versions.
Common Setup Problems and How to Fix Them
Connection and detection issues frequently prevent Sideloadly from recognizing your iOS device.
“Device not detected” problem:
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Cause: iTunes drivers not installed or outdated on Windows
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Solution: Install iTunes from Apple’s website (not Microsoft Store version)
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Verification: Check if device appears in iTunes/Finder before using Sideloadly
“Trust This Computer” prompt not appearing:
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Cause: USB Restricted Mode blocking data connections
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Solution: Unlock device, go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode > USB Accessories > Enable
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Alternative: Use different Lightning/USB-C cable or USB port
iTunes installation conflicts on Windows:
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Cause: Microsoft Store iTunes version incompatible with Sideloadly
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Solution: Uninstall Microsoft Store version completely
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Fix: Download iTunes from apple.com/itunes directly
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Install: Also install iCloud for Windows from Apple
Sideloadly fails to launch:
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Cause: Antivirus blocking application execution
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Solution: Add Sideloadly to antivirus exception list
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Windows Defender: Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Manage settings > Add exclusion
Apple ID authentication failures:
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Cause: Two-factor authentication blocking login
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Solution: Generate app-specific password at appleid.apple.com
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Usage: Use app-specific password instead of regular password in Sideloadly
How to Verify Your Device Is Ready
Before starting the installation process, confirm all prerequisites are satisfied to avoid mid-process failures.
Device readiness checklist:
- ✓ Device appears in iTunes/Finder “Devices” section
- ✓ “Trust This Computer?” prompt accepted on iOS device
- ✓ Developer Mode enabled (iOS 16+ only)
- ✓ At least 2GB free storage space available
- ✓ Battery level above 50% or device connected to power
- ✓ WiFi/cellular disabled during installation (reduces conflicts)
Computer readiness verification:
- ✓ Sideloadly application launches without errors
- ✓ iTunes recognizes and syncs with connected device
- ✓ Apple ID credentials ready and verified
- ✓ IPA file downloaded and accessible on computer
- ✓ Antivirus allows Sideloadly network access
Testing connection integrity:
Open iTunes or Finder and confirm your device name appears with accurate storage information displayed. This verifies drivers are properly installed and communication channels function correctly. If device details don’t load, restart both computer and iOS device before proceeding.
How to Install IPA Files Using Sideloadly
The installation process follows a straightforward sequence that typically completes within 3-5 minutes.
Step 1 – Install Sideloadly on Windows or macOS
Download and install the Sideloadly application from the official source before connecting your device.
Download procedure:
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Visit sideloadly.io in your web browser
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Click the download button for your operating system (Windows or macOS)
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Wait for the installer file to download completely
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Verify file integrity by checking file size matches website specifications
Windows installation:
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Locate the downloaded Sideloadly installer (.exe file)
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Right-click and select “Run as Administrator”
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Accept User Account Control prompt if it appears
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Follow installation wizard, accepting default settings
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Launch Sideloadly from Desktop shortcut or Start Menu
macOS installation:
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Open the downloaded Sideloadly .dmg file
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Drag Sideloadly icon to Applications folder
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Open Applications folder and locate Sideloadly
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Right-click Sideloadly and select “Open” (first launch only)
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Confirm “Open” in security dialog to bypass Gatekeeper
First launch setup:
When Sideloadly opens for the first time, it checks for required dependencies. Windows users see prompts if iTunes or iCloud components are missing. macOS users typically have all requirements pre-installed with the operating system.
Step 2 – Connect Your iPhone or iPad
Physical USB connection establishes the communication channel between Sideloadly and your iOS device.
Connection sequence:
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Launch Sideloadly application on your computer
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Unlock your iOS device and keep it awake during connection
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Connect device to computer using Lightning or USB-C cable
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Watch for “Trust This Computer?” prompt on iOS device
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Tap “Trust” and enter device passcode when requested
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Wait 10-20 seconds for Sideloadly to detect the device
Verification of successful connection:
Your device name appears in the device dropdown menu at the top of Sideloadly’s window. The dropdown shows device model and iOS version, confirming proper recognition and communication.
Connection troubleshooting during setup:
If your device doesn’t appear within 30 seconds:
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Unplug cable and reconnect firmly
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Try different USB port (avoid USB hubs)
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Restart Sideloadly application
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Ensure iTunes recognizes device first
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Check cable isn’t damaged or counterfeit
WiFi connection option:
After initial USB pairing, some Sideloadly versions support WiFi installation. However, first-time setup always requires physical USB connection for trust establishment and device registration.
Step 3 – Load the IPA File into Sideloadly
Sideloadly accepts IPA files through multiple input methods for user convenience.
Drag-and-drop method (recommended):
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Open File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (macOS)
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Navigate to folder containing your IPA file
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Position windows so both Sideloadly and file browser are visible
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Click and hold the IPA file
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Drag file over Sideloadly window
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Release mouse button when drop target highlights
Browse method (alternative):
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Click the IPA icon in Sideloadly’s main window
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System file picker dialog opens
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Navigate to IPA file location
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Select the IPA file and click “Open”
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Sideloadly loads and displays app information
After loading the IPA:
Sideloadly automatically extracts and displays:
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App name and version number
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Bundle identifier (can be modified if needed)
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Minimum iOS version required
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File size and estimated installation time
Advanced options (optional):
Click “Advanced Options” to customize:
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Bundle identifier modification
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App file sharing enablement
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Plugin/extension removal
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Custom app name and version overrides
For most installations, default settings work perfectly without adjustments. Advanced options serve specific use cases like avoiding bundle ID conflicts or reducing app size.
Step 4 – Enter Your Apple ID Credentials Safely
Credential entry requires your Apple ID to generate signing certificates through Apple’s developer program.
Apple ID input procedure:
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Locate the “Apple Account” field in Sideloadly
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Enter your complete Apple ID email address
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Click the password field and enter your password
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If using two-factor authentication, enter app-specific password instead
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Optional: Check “Save credentials” to avoid re-entering for future installations
Security considerations:
Your Apple ID credentials authenticate directly with Apple’s servers, not with Sideloadly’s developers. The tool acts as a secure intermediary similar to how Xcode handles authentication.
Sideloadly stores credentials locally on your computer using encrypted storage. No credentials transmit to third-party servers during the signing process. For maximum security, consider creating a separate Apple ID exclusively for sideloading activities.
Two-factor authentication handling:
If your Apple ID uses 2FA, Sideloadly requests verification:
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Enter Apple ID and password as normal
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Approve login request on your trusted device
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Enter the 6-digit verification code when prompted
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Alternatively, use app-specific password to skip 2FA during signing
Generating app-specific passwords:
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Visit appleid.apple.com and sign in
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Navigate to Security section
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Select “Generate Password” under App-Specific Passwords
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Enter label like “Sideloadly” for reference
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Copy the generated password and use it in Sideloadly
Step 5 – Start the Sideloading Process
Initiating installation triggers the automated signing and deployment sequence.
Starting installation:
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Verify device appears in dropdown menu
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Confirm IPA file loaded successfully
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Check Apple ID credentials entered correctly
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Click the “Start” button in Sideloadly
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Watch progress bar and status messages
Installation phases:
The process proceeds through several automated stages:
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Authenticating: Sideloadly contacts Apple servers to verify credentials
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Generating certificate: Creates development certificate tied to your Apple ID
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Signing app: Re-signs IPA bundle with your certificate and provisioning profile
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Preparing device: iOS allocates storage and prepares for installation
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Transferring: App bundle copies to device via USB connection
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Installing: iOS unpacks and installs application
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Verifying: Final signature validation and registration
Typical installation timeline:
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Small apps (under 100MB): 1-2 minutes
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Medium apps (100-500MB): 2-4 minutes
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Large apps (over 500MB): 4-8 minutes
Status messages indicate progress:
Watch the status area at bottom of Sideloadly window for real-time updates. Successful installation shows “App installed successfully” message. The app icon appears on your iOS device’s home screen immediately upon completion.
What to do during installation:
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Keep device connected and unlocked throughout process
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Don’t launch other apps on device during installation
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Avoid using Sideloadly for other installations simultaneously
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Monitor for error messages requiring user action
Step 6 – How to Trust the App After Installation
Trusting the developer certificate enables the app to launch on your iOS device.
Trust procedure (first-time for each Apple ID):
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Locate the newly installed app icon on home screen
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Tap the app icon to attempt launch
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iOS displays “Untrusted Enterprise Developer” warning
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Tap “Cancel” and proceed to Settings app
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Open Settings > General > VPN & Device Management
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Find your Apple ID email under “Developer App” section
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Tap the profile to open details screen
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Select “Trust [Your Apple ID]” button
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Confirm action by tapping “Trust” in confirmation dialog
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Return to home screen and launch app normally
After initial trust:
Future apps signed with the same Apple ID launch immediately without additional trust prompts. The trust relationship persists until:
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Certificate expires (7 days for free accounts, 1 year for paid)
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You manually revoke trust in device management settings
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iOS version upgrade requiring trust re-confirmation
Developer Mode requirement (iOS 16+):
If the app still won’t launch after trusting, enable Developer Mode:
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Settings > Privacy & Security > Developer Mode
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Toggle to On
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Restart device when prompted
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Confirm enabling Developer Mode after restart
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Retry launching the app
Step 7 – Launching and Testing the Installed App
Verify successful installation by thoroughly testing basic app functionality.
Initial launch checklist:
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Tap the app icon on home screen
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Grant permission requests (camera, notifications, location) if prompted
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Navigate through main screens and features
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Test core functionality to ensure proper operation
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Check that app data saves and persists between launches
Performance verification:
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App launches within 3-5 seconds normally
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No immediate crashes or freezes
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UI elements render correctly
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Touch interactions respond properly
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Network connectivity functions if app requires internet
Common post-installation issues:
App crashes immediately on launch:
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Cause: Incompatible iOS version or device architecture
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Solution: Verify IPA supports your iOS version and device model
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Check: IPA deployment target must be at or below your iOS version
App shows blank screen:
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Cause: Missing resources or corrupted IPA download
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Solution: Download fresh IPA file and reinstall
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Alternative: Try different IPA source if problem persists
“This app cannot be installed” error:
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Cause: Certificate already revoked or Apple ID issues
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Solution: Check Apple Developer portal for account status
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Fix: Try different Apple ID or wait 24 hours before retry
Maintaining sideloaded apps:
Remember that free Apple IDs require re-installation every 7 days. Set calendar reminders to reconnect your device and refresh apps before expiration. App data typically persists through reinstallation, but backup important information regularly as a precaution.
Troubleshooting Errors While Installing IPA Files with Sideloadly
Even with proper preparation, technical issues can interrupt the sideloading process. These solutions address the most frequent Sideloadly errors.
Fixing “Unable to Login” or “Invalid Apple ID” Issues
Authentication failures prevent Sideloadly from generating signing certificates for your apps.
Common causes and solutions:
Error: “Could not find the Apple ID credentials”
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Cause: Password incorrect or account details mistyped
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Solution: Verify Apple ID email spelling is exact
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Fix: Re-enter password carefully, checking caps lock status
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Alternative: Copy-paste credentials to avoid typing errors
Error: “Your Apple ID or password was incorrect”
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Cause: Two-factor authentication blocking standard login
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Solution: Generate app-specific password at appleid.apple.com
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Process: Security section > App-Specific Passwords > Generate
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Usage: Use generated password instead of regular password
Error: “This Apple ID has been locked for security reasons”
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Cause: Multiple failed login attempts triggering security lockout
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Solution: Visit appleid.apple.com to unlock account
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Reset: Follow Apple’s account recovery process
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Prevention: Use correct credentials and avoid rapid retry attempts
Error: “Could not communicate with Apple servers”
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Cause: Network firewall blocking Sideloadly connections
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Solution: Disable VPN or proxy temporarily during signing
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Fix: Add Sideloadly to firewall exceptions
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Alternative: Try different network connection (mobile hotspot)
Apple ID verification best practices:
Create a dedicated Apple ID specifically for sideloading separate from your primary account. This protects your main Apple ID from potential restrictions and simplifies troubleshooting. Free throwaway accounts work equally well for signing purposes.
Solving “Sideload Failed” Error Codes
Generic “Sideload Failed” messages require examining specific error codes and descriptions for resolution.
Error code analysis:
Sideloadly displays error codes in the status area at installation failure. Note the exact error code and description for accurate troubleshooting.
Maximum apps limit exceeded:
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Error: “The maximum number of apps for free development profiles has been reached”
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Cause: Free Apple IDs support only 3 simultaneous apps
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Solution: Delete existing sideloaded apps from device
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Process: Settings > General > VPN & Device Management > Remove apps
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Alternative: Use different Apple ID or upgrade to paid Developer account
Provisioning profile error:
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Error: “A valid provisioning profile for this executable was not found”
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Cause: Device UDID not registered or profile corrupted
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Solution: Let Sideloadly generate new profile automatically
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Fix: Click “Advanced Options” and ensure “Apple ID Sideload” is selected
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Retry: Clean Sideloadly cache and attempt installation again
Bundle identifier conflicts:
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Error: “An app with this identifier already exists”
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Cause: Previous installation or conflicting app present
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Solution: Delete existing app with same bundle ID from device
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Alternative: Modify bundle ID in Sideloadly’s Advanced Options
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Process: Click Advanced Options > Change “Bundle ID” field to unique value
Storage space insufficient:
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Error: “Not enough storage available to install”
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Cause: iOS requires 2-3x IPA size during installation
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Solution: Free up at least 3GB space on device
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Method: Delete unused apps, clear Safari cache, remove photos/videos
Device communication error:
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Error: “Failed to communicate with device”
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Cause: USB connection interrupted or unstable
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Solution: Use different USB cable or port
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Fix: Disable USB Restricted Mode in iOS settings
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Alternative: Restart both device and computer, then reconnect
How to Deal with Certificate Expiration
Certificate expiration is inevitable with free Apple IDs after exactly 7 days from installation.
Symptoms of expired certificates:
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App icon remains on home screen but won’t launch
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Tapping app shows “Unable to verify app” message
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Error states “The app is no longer available”
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Settings shows expired certificate in device management
Re-signing expired apps:
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Connect device to computer running Sideloadly
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Load the same IPA file used originally
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Enter your Apple ID credentials
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Click “Start” to reinstall with fresh certificate
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App data typically persists through reinstallation
Batch re-signing workflow:
If multiple apps expired simultaneously:
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Install them one by one through Sideloadly
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Keep device connected throughout all installations
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Trust certificate once after first app installation
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Remaining apps launch immediately without additional trust
Preventing expiration disruption:
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Set calendar reminder for day 6 after installation
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Keep IPA files organized for easy re-signing access
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Consider upgrading to paid Developer account ($99/year) for 1-year validity
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Use automation tools like AltStore for automatic refresh
When certificates unexpectedly revoke:
Apple occasionally revokes certificates before natural expiration if they detect policy violations. If apps stop working before 7 days with free accounts:
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Use different Apple ID for fresh certificate
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Avoid installing obvious pirated or modified apps
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Don’t sideload excessive number of apps rapidly
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Check Twitter/Reddit for reports of Apple crackdowns
When IPAs Crash on Launch — Causes & Fixes
Post-installation crashes prevent app usage despite successful installation and trust.
Immediate crash scenarios:
Incompatible iOS version:
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Symptom: App closes instantly after launch splash screen
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Cause: IPA requires newer iOS than device runs
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Solution: Update iOS if possible, or find IPA version compatible with your iOS
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Check: IPA’s Info.plist MinimumOSVersion must be at/below device iOS
Architecture mismatch:
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Symptom: App crashes before any UI appears
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Cause: IPA built for ARM64 but device uses older architecture
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Solution: Obtain universal IPA containing multiple architecture binaries
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Devices affected: iPhone 5 and earlier (use ARM64 IPAs for iPhone 5s+)
Missing frameworks:
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Symptom: Crash report mentions specific framework unavailable
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Cause: App compiled with newer SDK than device supports
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Solution: Request IPA version built with older deployment target
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Example: iOS 12 device can’t run app requiring iOS 15+ frameworks
Modified IPA corruption:
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Symptom: Random crashes or unstable behavior
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Cause: IPA modified incorrectly or download corrupted
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Solution: Download fresh IPA from original source
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Verification: Check IPA file size matches expected value
Diagnostic steps:
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Check device Console logs for crash details
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Settings > Privacy > Analytics & Improvements > Analytics Data
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Find recent crash reports matching app name
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Review crash log for specific error details
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Search error messages for known solutions
Prevention measures:
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Only install IPAs from trusted, reputable sources
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Verify iOS compatibility before installation
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Keep device iOS updated to latest version your model supports
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Test apps immediately after installation to catch issues early
Alternative Methods to Install IPA Files
While Sideloadly offers excellent balance of features and usability, alternative tools serve specific use cases better depending on your requirements.
| Feature | Sideloadly | AltStore | TrollStore |
|---|---|---|---|
| Setup Complexity | Low | Moderate | High |
| Computer Required | For each install | Initial + refresh | No |
| Auto Refresh | No | Yes (WiFi) | Not needed |
| iOS Version Support | iOS 7-26+ | iOS 12.2-18.0 | iOS 14-18 |
| Platform | Windows/Mac | Windows/Mac | iOS only |
| Signing Duration | 7 days / 1 year | 7 days / 1 year | Permanent |
| App Limit (Free ID) | 3 apps | 3 apps | Unlimited |
| Installation Speed | 1-3 min | 2-5 min | 30 sec |
| User Friendliness | Excellent | Good | Advanced |
| Certificate Expiration | Yes | Yes | No |
| Active Development | Yes | Yes | Limited |
AltStore advantages:
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Automatic refresh via WiFi when AltServer runs in background
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Built-in app repository for verified sideload apps
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Open-source code allows community security audits
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No need to manually reinstall every 7 days
AltStore disadvantages:
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Requires AltServer running on computer for refresh functionality
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More complex initial setup than Sideloadly
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WiFi requirements for automatic refresh
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Occasional sync issues between device and AltServer
TrollStore advantages:
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Permanent app installation without expiration
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No computer needed after initial jailbreak
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Unlimited apps without 3-app restriction
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Fastest installation speed of all methods
TrollStore disadvantages:
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Only compatible with iOS 14.0-15.5 (limited range)
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Requires initial exploit to install TrollStore itself
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Not actively supported for newer iOS versions
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Higher technical complexity for setup
Sideloadly’s balanced position:
Sideloadly sits between AltStore’s convenience and Xcode’s complexity. It requires computer connection like Xcode but offers AltStore’s user-friendly interface. The manual re-signing requirement is the main drawback compared to AltStore’s automation.
Is Sideloadly Always the Best Choice?
Context determines the optimal installation method rather than one universal solution.
Choose Sideloadly when:
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You need widest iOS version compatibility (iOS 7-18+)
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Using Windows computer without access to Mac
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Installing apps occasionally rather than daily
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Want fastest setup without complex configuration
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Don’t mind reconnecting device weekly for free accounts
Choose AltStore when:
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You install many apps and need automatic refresh
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Your computer runs continuously on home network
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You want open-source transparency for security
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Prefer background automation over manual reinstalls
Choose Xcode when:
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You’re actively developing iOS applications
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Need comprehensive debugging and logging tools
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Already own a Mac computer
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Require professional development environment
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Corporate policies mandate official Apple tools
Choose TrollStore when:
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Your device runs iOS 14.0-15.5 specifically
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You want permanent installation without expiration
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Comfortable with jailbreak-adjacent tools
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Need unlimited app installations
For most non-developer users, Sideloadly offers the best balance of simplicity and functionality. The straightforward installation process and broad compatibility make it accessible to beginners while providing advanced options for experienced users. The lack of automatic refresh is acceptable for users installing only 1-2 critical apps.
If you have a $99/year Apple Developer account, all methods work equally well since 1-year signing eliminates the refresh burden. Choose based on other factors like platform availability (Mac vs Windows) and desired features (debugging, automation, etc.).
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do sideloaded apps work before expiring?
Apps installed with free Apple IDs work for exactly 7 days before requiring reinstallation. The apps remain on your device but display “Unable to verify app” errors when launched. Paid Developer accounts extend validity to 1 year. You must reconnect to Sideloadly and reinstall to refresh certificates.
Can I use Sideloadly without a computer?
No. Sideloadly requires a Windows or Mac computer for every installation. Unlike some alternatives that offer on-device signing after initial setup, Sideloadly always needs computer connection. Consider AltStore or SideStore if you want computer-free refresh capabilities.
Is Sideloadly safe for my device and data?
Yes, when used properly. Sideloadly itself is safe and doesn’t compromise your device. However, safety depends on IPA sources. Installing modified apps from untrusted sources exposes you to malware risks. Only install IPAs from reputable sources, and never install modified versions of banking or security apps.
Why does Sideloadly show “Maximum apps reached” error?
Free Apple Developer accounts limit you to 3 simultaneously installed apps (including AltStore if you use it). Delete existing sideloaded apps through Settings > General > VPN & Device Management to free slots. Paid Developer accounts ($99/year) remove this limitation entirely.
Can I update sideloaded apps without reinstalling?
No. Sideloaded apps don’t receive automatic updates like App Store apps. You must download updated IPA files and reinstall through Sideloadly manually. The reinstallation typically preserves app data, but backup important information before updating to prevent data loss.
Does Sideloadly work on iOS 18 and newer versions?
Yes. Sideloadly supports iOS versions from iOS 7 through the latest iOS 18.6 releases. The developers actively maintain compatibility with new iOS versions, usually updating within days of major iOS releases. Check sideloadly.io for the latest compatible version.
What’s the difference between Sideloadly and jailbreaking?
Sideloadly uses Apple’s official developer signing infrastructure without modifying iOS system files. Jailbreaking removes iOS security restrictions by exploiting vulnerabilities. Sideloadly maintains iOS security while jailbreaking compromises it. Sideloaded apps have limited system access; jailbroken apps can access anything.
Can I sideload paid apps for free using Sideloadly?
Yes but it violates intellectual property laws, Apple’s terms of service, and ethical developer support principles. Always purchase apps legitimately to support developers.