How to switch Windows out of S mode

Running Windows in S mode can be beneficial for marginal performance gains and a more streamlined user experience. However, it has drawbacks too. Arguably, the largest disadvantage is that when Windows is in S mode, you can't install applications from anywhere but the Windows Store. While this feature helps keep your computer more secure, it does limit your software choices.

If you recently purchased a computer that came with Windows 10 or 11 running in S mode, the following section shows how to turn it off or disable it.

How to switch Windows out of S mode

1. Press the Windows key, type Activation Settings, and press Enter. Alternatively, click the Activation Settings selector on the Start menu.

2. On the next screen, under System, click the S mode option to expand the section.

3. In the expanded S mode section, click the Open Store button.

4. On the Switch out of S mode screen, click the Get button.

5. When the confirmation message is displayed, click the Close button.