Information
This policy setting specifies whether to use the Store service for finding an application to open a file with an unhandled file type or protocol association.
When a user opens a file type or protocol that is not associated with any applications on the computer, the user is given the choice to select a local application or use the Store service to find an application.
The recommended state for this setting is: 'Enabled'.
Rationale:
The Store service is a retail outlet built into Windows, primarily for consumer use.
In an enterprise managed environment the IT department should be managing the installation of all applications to reduce the risk of the installation of vulnerable software.
Solution
To establish the recommended configuration via GP, set the following UI path to 'Enabled':
Computer Configuration\Policies\Administrative Templates\System\Internet Communication Management\Internet Communication settings\Turn off access to the Store
Note: This Group Policy path may not exist by default.
It is provided by the Group Policy template 'ICM.admx/adml' that is included with the Microsoft Windows 8.0 & Server 2012 (non-R2) Administrative Templates (or newer).
Impact:
The 'Look for an app in the Store' item in the Open With dialog is removed.