What is the "Untrusted Enterprise Developer" Error?

The "Untrusted Enterprise Developer" error appears when you try to open an app on your iPhone or iPad that wasn't downloaded from the App Store. This security feature is Apple's way of protecting users from potentially malicious apps that haven't been reviewed through their official app review process.

Quick Facts

What it affects: Enterprise apps, beta apps, and sideloaded applications
iOS versions: iOS 9 and later
Time to fix: 2-3 minutes

Untrusted Enterprise Developer warning message on iOS
The "Untrusted Enterprise Developer" warning that appears when trying to open an enterprise app

When you encounter this error, you'll typically see a message like "Untrusted Enterprise Developer" followed by the developer's name, with options to "Cancel" or "Settings." The app won't launch until you manually trust the developer certificate.

Why Does This Error Occur?

Apple implemented this security measure to protect users from potentially harmful applications. Here are the main reasons why you might encounter this error:

  • Enterprise Distribution: The app was distributed using an Enterprise Developer Certificate
  • Beta Testing: You're testing a pre-release version of an app
  • Sideloading: The app was installed through alternative methods (not App Store)
  • Corporate Apps: Company-specific applications for internal use
  • Development Testing: Apps installed directly from Xcode during development
Important Security Note

Only trust developers and install apps from sources you completely trust. Enterprise certificates can be revoked by Apple if misused, which would make the app unusable.

Quick Fix: Trust the Developer

Here's the fastest way to resolve the "Untrusted Enterprise Developer" error:

Quick Solution

Settings → General → VPN & Device Management → Trust Developer

Detailed Step-by-Step Solution

Follow these comprehensive steps to fix the untrusted enterprise developer error on your iOS device:

1
Open Settings App

Locate and tap the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad home screen. It's the grey icon with gears.

2
Navigate to General

Scroll down and tap on "General" in the Settings menu. This section contains system-wide settings for your device.

3
Find VPN & Device Management

Look for "VPN & Device Management" (or "Device Management" on older iOS versions). If you don't see this option, it means no enterprise apps are currently installed.

VPN & Device Management settings showing untrusted enterprise app
VPN & Device Management screen showing an untrusted enterprise developer
4
Select Developer App

Under the "Developer App" section, you'll see the name of the untrusted developer. Tap on it to proceed.

5
Trust the Developer

Tap "Trust [Developer Name]" and then confirm by tapping "Trust" again in the popup dialog that appears.

6
Launch the App

Return to your home screen and try opening the app again. It should now launch without any error messages.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you're still experiencing problems after following the steps above, try these troubleshooting solutions:

Issue 1: "VPN & Device Management" Not Visible

If you don't see the "VPN & Device Management" option in Settings, it typically means:

  • No enterprise apps are currently installed on your device
  • The app installation didn't complete properly
  • You need to try installing the app again

Issue 2: Developer Not Listed

If the developer doesn't appear in the Device Management section:

  • Wait a few minutes and check again
  • Restart your device
  • Reinstall the app from the original source

Issue 3: "Trust" Button Grayed Out

If you can't tap the Trust button:

  • Check if your device has restrictions enabled
  • Ensure you're not in Guided Access mode
  • Try restarting your device and attempting again
Certificate Revocation

If Apple revokes the enterprise certificate, the app will stop working even after you've trusted it. This is a security measure to prevent abuse of enterprise certificates.

How to Prevent This Error

While you can't completely avoid this security feature, here are ways to minimize encountering this error:

For Users:

  • Stick to App Store: Download apps primarily from the official App Store
  • Verify Sources: Only install enterprise apps from trusted organizations
  • Regular Updates: Keep your iOS updated to the latest version
  • Be Cautious: Research any enterprise app before installation

For Developers:

  • Use Proper Certificates: Ensure you're using appropriate distribution methods
  • Clear Instructions: Provide users with detailed installation guides
  • TestFlight: Consider using TestFlight for beta testing instead of enterprise distribution
  • App Store Submission: Submit to the App Store when possible

Security Considerations

Understanding the security implications of trusting enterprise developers is crucial for maintaining your device's security:

Security Best Practices
  • Only trust developers from organizations you know and trust
  • Regularly review trusted developers in your settings
  • Remove trust for developers you no longer need
  • Be aware that trusted apps can access sensitive data
  • Monitor app behavior after installation

Removing Trust from a Developer

If you no longer need an enterprise app or want to revoke trust from a developer:

Delete app option in VPN & Device Management settings
Option to delete an enterprise app and revoke developer trust
  1. Go to Settings → General → VPN & Device Management
  2. Find the developer under "Developer App"
  3. Tap on the developer name
  4. Tap "Delete App" to remove the app and revoke trust
Final Tips

Remember that this security feature exists to protect you. While it may seem inconvenient, it's an important layer of protection against malicious applications. Always exercise caution when trusting enterprise developers.