What is S Mode?
S Mode in Windows is a locked-down version of the Windows Operating System designed to improve performance and security. In S Mode, users are restricted to installing applications from the Windows Store only. Swapping out of S Mode is permanent. Once you switch, it is not possible to go back into S mode.
Disabling S Mode in Windows 10
- Open the "Settings" app:
- Click on the "Start Menu" (the Windows icon in the bottom-left corner).
- Select "Settings" (the gear icon).
- Select the "Update & Security" section in the app.
- Select "Activation" on the left sidebar.
- Find the "Go to the Store to switch to Windows 10 Home/Pro" section.
- Click the "Go to the Store" link.
- In the Microsoft Store, you'll be taken to a page that explains the switch from S Mode to a regular version of Windows. On this page, click "Get."
See also: Switching out of S mode in Windows 10
Disabling S Mode in Windows 11
- Open the "Settings" app:
- Click on the "Start Menu" (the Windows icon in the bottom-left corner).
- Select "Settings" (the gear icon).
- By default, it opens to the "System" page. If not, select "System" on the left sidebar.
- Select "Activation."
- Find the "Switch to Windows 11 Home/Pro" section.
- Click the "Go to the Store" link.
- In the Microsoft Store, you'll be taken to a page that explains the switch from S Mode to a regular version of Windows. On this page, click "Get."
See also: Switching out of S mode in Windows 11