What disabling S Mode changes
Windows 11 in S Mode only lets you install apps from the Microsoft Store. That restriction can stop you from installing software you download from the web, such as Google Chrome, Steam, or other desktop programs. When you disable S Mode, your computer switches to the full version of Windows 11 Home or Pro that came with the PC.
Before you make the change, know that switching out of S Mode is permanent. You cannot turn S Mode back on later. The Microsoft Store also warns that allowing apps from outside the Store can affect security or performance if you install unsafe software. Disabling S Mode itself does not cause those problems. What you download and install after the switch is what matters.
Video Tutorial
How to disable S Mode on Windows 11
You will start in Windows Settings, then use the Microsoft Store page that Windows opens for you. Make sure you are ready to keep the change before selecting the final option.
- Right-click the Windows Start button on the taskbar.
- Select Settings from the menu.
- Choose System in the left sidebar.
- Scroll down and select Activation.
- Look under Activation state for S mode.
- Expand the S mode section, then select Open Store.
- Windows opens the Microsoft Store directly to the Switch out of S mode page.
- Review the warning on the page. When you are ready, select Get.
- Enter your computer PIN if Windows asks for it.
- Wait a moment while Windows completes the switch. You should return to the Activation screen, where S Mode is turned off.
Check that S Mode is off
After selecting Get and entering your PIN, Windows returns you to the Activation area in Settings. Check the Activation state section again. If the S Mode entry is no longer shown as active, the switch is complete.
You can now install apps and games that are not available through the Microsoft Store. This includes standard Windows installers downloaded from the official websites for the software you want to use.
Why the Microsoft Store shows a warning
S Mode limits app installations to the Microsoft Store, where apps are reviewed by Microsoft. After you switch out of S Mode, Windows can run programs from other sources. This gives you more choice, but it also means you need to be more careful about where software comes from.
Download programs from their official developer websites when possible. Pay attention to what an installer offers during setup, and avoid installing software you do not recognize. Running virus scans regularly is also a good habit after you begin installing apps from outside the Store.
The warning does not mean that every app outside the Microsoft Store is unsafe. Many common Windows programs are installed this way. It is simply a reminder that you are responsible for choosing trustworthy downloads.
Things to remember before switching
- The change is permanent. Windows 11 does not provide a way to re-enable S Mode after you switch out.
- You need to use the Microsoft Store page opened from Settings, System, and Activation.
- You may need to enter the PIN for your Windows computer to confirm the change.
- Once S Mode is off, you can install apps, games, browsers, and other desktop software that are not in the Microsoft Store.
- Keep using care with downloaded files, especially installers from unfamiliar websites.
If you only need one app
Consider why you need to disable S Mode before making the permanent switch. If the app you want is already available in the Microsoft Store, you can install it without changing anything. If you need a program that is only available from the developer’s website, switching out of S Mode lets you use it.
For most people, the decision comes down to app compatibility. S Mode works well when you only use Microsoft Store apps. Turning it off makes your Windows 11 PC more flexible when you need software from outside the Store.
More Windows 11 Tips & Tutorials:
Subscribe Now! 🙂
Discover more from Gauging Gadgets
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
