Disabling 'S Mode' in Windows

Owned by Skylar Grant
Sept 03, 2024
2 min read

Some Windows 10 and Windows 11 machines are in ‘S Mode’ to streamline security and performance. It only allows apps from the Microsoft Store and requires the use of Microsoft Edge for safe browsing. S Mode will block the ability to install any third-party (non-Microsoft) programs that may be required for certain degree paths here at KVCC. Some examples of these software programs are Google Chrome, Respondus LockDown Browser, CAD software, and more.

This article will walk you through disabling S Mode in Windows 10 and 11.

Disabling S Mode is a permanent change, S Mode cannot be enabled again once disabled.

Windows 10

These instructions apply to Windows 10 machines:

  1. 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

Do not select the link under Upgrade your edition of Windows, that is a different process that will keep you in S Mode.

  1. Click on Get after the Microsoft Store opens to the Switch out of S Mode page

 

Windows 11

These instructions apply to Windows 11 machines:

  1. Open Settings → System → Activation

  2. Find the Switch to Windows 11 Home or Switch to Windows 11 Pro section, then select the Go to the Store link

Do not select the link under Upgrade your edition of Windows, that is a different process that will keep you in S Mode.

  1. Click on Get after the Microsoft Store opens to the Switch out of S Mode page

 

For more information, please read this support article from Microsoft and the FAQ section towards the middle of the page: Windows 10 and Windows 11 in S mode FAQ