Fix Unknown Error code during application installation -24 in Google Play Store

Most people are getting unknown error 24 in Google Play while installing or downloading Whatsapp, Viber, Facebook messenger, Skype etc. This problem is also common in Android that have just received a software update. The "Unknown error code during application installation: -24"

Unkown Error code during application installation 24

error pops up when you're trying to download or update apps on Google Play Store. This app installation error is an Android Runtime related error which affects some devices running Android 4.4 KitKat and 5.0 Lollipop. There are couple of methods to solve this issue but the most effective solution will require you to root your Android if it already isn't. The instructions below will save you the trouble of factory resetting. Read the methods below to fix Unknown Error Code 24 in Google Play Store:

How to fix Google Play Store Unknown Error code -24

1. First root your Android device using instructions available on forums like XDA or Cyanogenmod. If you don't want to root your device skip to the other method.

2. Install a file manager like "Root Explorer" that can access Android Data files

3. Open the file manager app and navigate to the root folder

Go to "/data/data/" and search for your application package (for the app that is causing the error). The package or folder should be in the format com.abc.xyz.
If you are unsure of the package name just Google your app and find the details. Delete the entire package folder

4. Now re-install your app from the Google Play Store

The above method has worked for almost all people who have experienced the -24 error on their android phone or tablets. The only thing required is to root your device, which is a simple process nowadays with easy methods available on the internet. However, if you have a relatively new phone, rooting can potentially void its warranty.

How to fix unknown error code during installation -24 for unrooted devices

The simplest method that has solved error -24 on most Android device, is clearing of data and cache of Google Play Store and Google Play Services from the app settings. Here are the steps:

Go to Settings >> Apps >> scroll down and select "Google Play Store"

Tap "Clear Cache" and "Clear Data"

Go to Settings >> Apps >> scroll down and select "Google Play Services"

Tap "Clear Cache" and "Clear Data"

Optionally, go to Settings >> Apps >> scroll down and select "Google Services Framework"

Tap "Clear Cache" and "Clear Data"

Do you have any other methods/fix for this error code -24 in Google Play Store? Drop a comment below.