How to turn off Windows 10 and 11 S Mode - Which? (2024)

The restricted S mode from Microsoft offers a streamlined experience, but also limits what you can do with your computer

Tom MorganSenior content writer

New laptops and desktop PCs can come with Windows S Mode enabled. Microsoft claims this feature keeps your device secure while ensuring it runs smoothly.

However, due to the features that Windows S disables (you can only install software from the Microsoft Store, for example) you might want to disable it.

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Below, we go into more detail on what Windows S mode offers, plus how to switch out of S Mode for good if you'd like unrestricted access to your system.

What is Windows 10 and 11 S?

Windows S is a mode on top of Windows 10 Home and Windows 11 Home that imposes three key restrictions:

1. You can only install software from the Microsoft Store, which means you're much less at risk of accidentally installing something with a nasty payload of malware.
2. You can't launch the Command prompt, which means you can't invoke potentially risky commands that could damage your system if you're not sure what you're doing.
3. You can only use Microsoft's own Edge browser – you can't install Firefox, Chrome, or any other third-party browser.

You might find that running in Windows 10 S Mode is absolutely fine for your everyday use, but if it's too restrictive, you can turn it off in a couple of easy steps.

Do note that this is a one-way street: you can't revert to S Mode without completely resetting your PC.

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Turning off Windows 10 S and Windows 11 S

To get started, press the Windows keyand type activationin the search box, then select Activation settingsat the top of the results box.

You'll now be looking at the Activationwindow of the Settingsapp. There, you'll see confirmation of the version of Windows you have – our screenshot was taken on a PC that has already had S Mode turned off, but if yours has S Mode enabled, it will say so in the Editionline.

Underneath that, you'll see an option toSwitch to Windows 10 Home(Switch to Windows 11 Pro, in Windows 11 - but if you see 'Upgrade your edition of Windows, do not click the 'Go to the store' link that appears there).Click on Go to the Storeunderneath that.

The Microsoft Storewill load up now, where you'll be offered the option to Switch out of S Mode. Choose Get, and then you'll see a message confirming that you've switched out of S Mode.

Once you've switched out of S Mode, you'll be able to install software from anywhere on the web, and other browsers too. You should consider installing antivirus software if you've switched out of S Mode – see our pick of the best antivirus software.

If you're thinking about upgrading your laptop, consult our expertlaptop reviews.

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