Microsoft – Disable Windows S mode

Microsoft – Disable Windows S mode

Problem

A user has a laptop that is running in Windows S mode and wishes to use non-Microsoft Store apps.

Applies to

  1. Windows 11

Resolution

Some laptops may come supplied wit Windows running in S mode.  This is a special secure mode where only Microsoft Store apps will run and Win32 apps will not run.  For some this may be impractical to use.

1.     On your PC running Windows 10 in S mode, open Settings  > Update & Security  > Activation.

2.     Find the Switch to Windows 10 Home or Switch to Windows 10 Pro section, then select the Go to the Store link.

Note: Don't select the link under Upgrade your edition of Windows. That's a different process that will keep you in S mode.

3.     On the page that appears in Microsoft Store (Switch out of S mode or a similar page), select the Get button. After you confirm this action, you'll be able to install apps from outside Microsoft Store.



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