Windows Store apps (also called UWP apps) work differently from traditional desktop software. Here’s how to block them.
The Challenge
Many Windows Store apps run under a shared process called ApplicationFrameHost.exe. Blocking this process would block all Store apps, which is usually too aggressive.
Recommended Approach: Window Title Matching
- Open the Store app you want to block
- Use the Helper Tool to see its window title
- In your plan, add the app by window title rather than process name
Example: To block the Windows Store TikTok app, add a title match for TikTok.
Some Store Apps Have Unique Processes
Not all Store apps use ApplicationFrameHost.exe. Some have their own process names:
- Use the Helper Tool or Task Manager to check
- If the app has a unique process name, you can block by process as normal
Block All Store Apps
If you want to block every Store app:
- Add
ApplicationFrameHost.exe as a blocked process
- Add exceptions by whitelisting specific window titles you need (e.g., Calculator, Settings)
Blocking ApplicationFrameHost.exe also blocks some built-in Windows apps like Settings and Calculator. Only do this if you’re sure you don’t need any Store apps during your focus period.