How to Fix: Smart App Control is Blocking Your Installation File & How to exit S-mode

In Windows 11, Smart App Control can sometimes block installation files, even when they are perfectly safe. You can remove the block using the instructions below.

---

Follow these steps #

1. Right-click the downloaded installation file.
2. Select Properties.
3. At the bottom of the window, check Unblock.
4. Click Apply, then click OK.
5. Double-click the file, or right-click it and select Mount.

Then run the installation of the software by clicking on the Setup-file.

---

Check if your computer is in S mode #

Windows S mode can also block the installation of programs that are not downloaded from the Microsoft Store. You can check if your computer is in S mode by following the steps below.

1. Click Start.
2. Open Settings.
3. Go to System.
4. Select Activation.
5. Look for Windows 11 Home in S mode or Windows 11 Pro in S mode.

If you see that your computer is in S mode, you need to exit S mode before installing the software.

---

How to exit S mode #

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to System.
3. Select Activation.
4. Under Switch to Windows 11 Home or Switch to Windows 11 Pro, click Go to the Store.
5. In the Microsoft Store window, click Get.
6. Follow the instructions on the screen.

Once S mode has been turned off, restart the computer and try installing the software again.

Please note that exiting S mode is permanent. You cannot switch back to S mode afterwards.