Windows in S mode is a restricted version of Windows that only allows apps from the Microsoft Store. It is designed to improve security and performance, but it can prevent you from installing normal desktop programs downloaded from the internet.
If you want to install software outside the Microsoft Store, you need to switch out of S mode first.
Important Before You Continue #
Switching out of S mode is free, but it is also permanent.
Once you switch out of S mode, you cannot turn S mode back on again. For most users, this is not a problem, but it is important to know before continuing.
How to Switch Out of S Mode #
Follow these steps on your Windows computer:
- Open Settings.
- Go to System.
- Select Activation.
- Look for the section called Switch out of S mode.
- Click Open Store.
- The Microsoft Store will open on the S mode page.
- Click Get.
- Wait for Windows to confirm that S mode has been switched off.
After this is done, you can install programs from outside the Microsoft Store.
Having Trouble Finding the Option? #
The wording may look slightly different depending on your Windows version.
If you cannot find it, search in Windows Settings for:
Activation
Then open the activation page and look for the S mode section.
Can I Switch Back to S Mode Later? #
No. Once S mode has been turned off, it cannot be enabled again through normal Windows settings.ng apps outside the Microsoft Store, your computer may be running in S mode. Switching out of S mode is free and only takes a few minutes, but the change is permanent.