Windows 11 in S Mode is a safety feature that will only allow apps that are downloaded from the Microsoft Store to run on a computer. This prevents potential malware from affecting your computer, but is also quite restrictive.[1] To download apps that aren't available from the Microsoft Store, you'll need to exit S Mode, however this is a one-way street. If you disable S Mode, you can't turn it back on.

If you're still running Windows 10, read How to Turn Off S Mode in Windows 10 for help, or How to Download Windows 11 to upgrade.

Steps

  1. 1
  2. 2
    Select Activation from the System settings.
    • This panel should open with the settings app, but you can manually access system settings by clicking System in the menu on the left.
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  3. 3
    Ensure you're currently in S Mode. There should be a large image of the Windows logo followed by the version of your OS. The text should read something like Windows 11 Home in S Mode. If there's no 'S Mode', your computer isn't in S Mode and you're good to go!
    • If you're running any other version than Windows 11 Home, you'll never have to leave S Mode as it isn't available on these versions.[2]
  4. 4
    Click on the second drop-down menu titled S Mode, then click on Open Store. You'll then be redirected to the Microsoft Store.
  5. 5
    Read the banner that will display at the top of the store. If you don't really need to install external apps that aren't verified by Microsoft, there's really no need to leave S Mode. It can provide beneficial protection against potential malware that can be found online.
  6. 6
    Click Get in the 'Switch out of S Mode' banner to exit S Mode. After you click this button you'll get a pop-up anywhere between a few seconds to a couple minutes letting you know your computer is no longer in S Mode.
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Community Q&A

  • Question
    I don't have the store downloaded, what can I do?
    Rupert
    Rupert
    Top Answerer
    All Windows 11 installations ship with the Microsoft Store included. If it isn't present on your system, it may have been removed by someone else, or you may have a corrupted installation. Try searching using the start menu for the store, otherwise it's probably easiest to reset Windows for a completely new installation, complete with the Microsoft Store.
  • Question
    Why does it ask me for an administrator PIN?
    Rupert
    Rupert
    Top Answerer
    If you're using a computer that is run by an organisation, you may not have the required privileges to leave S Mode. Contact your system administrator for help.
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Warnings

  • Once you leave S Mode, you can never go back, so make sure you're sure before switching over.
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About This Article

wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, volunteer authors worked to edit and improve it over time. This article has been viewed 39,531 times.
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Co-authors: 3
Updated: February 20, 2023
Views: 39,531
Categories: Windows
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