Let’s be real, Windows 11 in S Mode feels like having a sports car that’s been darted with some safety rules. It’s designed for security and efficiency, sure, but if you’re trying to do more than just browse the web and use Microsoft apps, that S Mode often feels like a roadblock. The good news is, switching out of S Mode is pretty straightforward—if you know where to click. Once you do that, suddenly your device can install all those favorite apps and software outside the Microsoft Store. It’s kind of weird how locked down it feels at first, but mostly because Windows likes to make you jump through hoops for simple stuff. Anyway, here’s how to get out of it without fussing too much.
How to Remove S Mode from Windows 11
Switching out of S Mode can seem like a big step, but really it’s about unlocking your device so you aren’t limited to Microsoft Store apps only. This is good if you want to install Chrome, Photoshop, emulators, or whatever else isn’t available in Microsoft’s walled garden. When done right, your device will feel a lot more flexible, but just keep in mind—once you switch, you can’t go back. So it’s worth checking if you really need this upgrade or if S Mode’s actually doing a decent job at keeping malware at bay.
Open Settings and head to Activation
- Click the Start menu or hit the Windows key, then select Settings (gear icon).This is where all the magic happens.
- In Settings, go to Update & Security. It’s the section that handles updates, security, and license stuff.
- Click on Activation from the sidebar. If you don’t see it immediately, it’s probably nested under System or a similar section.
Find the ‘Switch to Windows 11 Home/Pro’ option and go to the Store
- Look for the section that says Switch to Windows 11 Home or Switch to Windows 11 Pro depending on your version.
- Hit the link that says Go to the Store. This takes you to the Microsoft Store app.
This step is kinda weird, but it’s how Microsoft lets you confirm that you really want to leave S Mode without charging you anything. On some setups, clicking that link glitches once, so don’t freak out if it doesn’t jump immediately—try again or restart Settings.
Switch Out Via the Microsoft Store
- Once in the Microsoft Store, you’ll see an option to “Get” or “Switch out of S Mode”.Just click that. Sometimes, it’s buried in a small banner or in the app’s home screen.
- Click Get or Install. It’s legit quick, and yes, it’s free. No hidden charges here.
- Once the process finishes, your device is now outside of S Mode, and you can download any apps or software you want.
Note: On some older setups, this might need a quick reboot, just to kick everything into gear. Usually, the switch takes effect instantly, but a restart won’t hurt if you see weird behavior afterward.
Tips for Removing S Mode from Windows 11
- Back up your files before going full chaos mode—better safe than sorry.
- Make sure it’s worth it—S Mode is quite good at blocking malware, so ask if you really need to leave or just stick with it if security is your priority.
- Double-check your internet connection. Windows needs to download a small package to confirm the switch.
- Remember, once you switch, there’s no reverse gear, so don’t decide in a rush.
- If you’re unsure whether an app needs the full Windows to run, do a quick Google search before switching.
FAQs
Can I switch back to S Mode after leaving?
Nope. Once you make the leap, S Mode is permanently gone. No toggle switch back—at least not officially. So, be sure before hitting the button.
Is switching out free?
Yep, absolutely free. No subscription, no hidden fee—just a click and wait.
Will this affect my device warranty?
Not at all. It’s just software settings, nothing hardware-wise, so your warranty stays intact.
Can I install anything now?
Yes, once out of S Mode, you can download and install apps from anywhere, not just the Microsoft Store.
Do I need to restart after switching?
Usually no, but a quick restart can help if things seem wonky afterwards. Windows isn’t always consistent.
Summary
- Open Settings, head into Update & Security
- Click on Activation
- Find the link to switch out of S Mode and go to the Microsoft Store
- Hit Get and let it do its thing
Wrap-up
Getting out of S Mode isn’t some secret wizardry, but it’s kinda hidden enough to make you think it’s harder than it really is. Once it’s done, it’s a whole new world—more flexibility, more apps, fewer restrictions. Just be sure you’re comfortable with that choice—you’re basically breaking the security cage for freedom. Hopefully, this shaves off some hours trying to figure it out, and your device feels a lot less like a locked-down machine. Fingers crossed this helps!