Installing YouTube on a laptop running Windows 11 is a straightforward process. Although you can’t download YouTube as a standalone app from the Microsoft Store, you can use a web browser like Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge to “install” it as a Progressive Web App (PWA). This allows you to have a YouTube icon on your desktop or start menu just like a traditional app. Simply navigate to YouTube in your browser, access the browser’s settings, and look for the option to install or create a shortcut. Once done, you can access YouTube directly from your desktop.
How to Install YouTube in Laptop Windows 11
Following the steps below will enable you to have YouTube accessible directly from your desktop or start menu, making it feel like a native application on your Windows 11 laptop.
Step 1: Open Your Web Browser
First, open a web browser like Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge on your laptop.
Browsers are your gateway to the internet, and both Chrome and Edge support the installation of web apps as PWAs, so you can treat websites like apps.
Step 2: Navigate to YouTube
In the address bar, type www.youtube.com and press enter to go to the YouTube website.
YouTube is the world’s largest video-sharing platform, and accessing it through your browser lets you explore its vast content library.
Step 3: Access Browser Menu
Look for the three-dot menu in the top-right corner of your browser window and click on it.
This menu houses a variety of options for browser settings and additional features, including the option to install websites as apps.
Step 4: Install YouTube as an App
In the dropdown menu, select “Install YouTube” or “Create Shortcut” depending on your browser.
This step allows you to create a shortcut on your desktop or start menu, so you can access YouTube as if it were a native app on your laptop.
Step 5: Confirm the Installation
A prompt will appear asking if you want to install YouTube; click on “Install” or “Add” to confirm.
Once confirmed, YouTube will be accessible right from your start menu or desktop, making it easier to watch your favorite videos with just a click.
After following these steps, YouTube will be installed as a PWA on your Windows 11 laptop. You can open it directly from your desktop or start menu, simplifying your access to videos and channels.
Tips for Installing YouTube in Laptop Windows 11
- Ensure your browser is up-to-date to support the latest web technologies.
- You can uninstall the PWA by right-clicking the shortcut and selecting “Uninstall.”
- For a faster experience, pin the YouTube shortcut to your taskbar.
- If you use multiple browsers, you might need to install it separately on each one.
- Keep your browser’s cache clear to improve performance and loading times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install YouTube directly from the Microsoft Store?
No, YouTube doesn’t have a standalone app in the Microsoft Store, but you can install it as a PWA through your browser.
What is a Progressive Web App (PWA)?
A PWA is a web application that behaves like a native app, allowing you to install websites on your device.
Is it safe to install YouTube as a PWA?
Yes, it’s safe as long as you install it through a trusted browser like Chrome or Edge.
Can I use other browsers to install YouTube as a PWA?
Currently, Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge are the most popular browsers that support installing PWAs.
Will this method work on Windows 10?
Yes, the method of installing YouTube as a PWA is also applicable to Windows 10.
Summary
- Open your web browser.
- Navigate to YouTube.
- Access the browser menu.
- Install YouTube as an app.
- Confirm the installation.
Conclusion
In today’s digital age, having quick and easy access to your favorite content is essential. By installing YouTube on your laptop running Windows 11 using the steps outlined above, you can enjoy a more streamlined and efficient experience. This method leverages the power of Progressive Web Apps, bringing the convenience of mobile app usage to your desktop environment. Not only does it enhance accessibility, but it also keeps your desktop organized without the need for additional software installations.
As you continue to explore the vast world of video content online, consider utilizing other PWAs for a seamless digital workflow. Whether it’s keeping up with the latest trends or finding inspiration for your next project, having YouTube just a click away ensures that you’re always connected to the content that matters most. So why not give it a try? Elevate your browsing experience, and make accessing YouTube on your laptop easier than ever before.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.