Steps to Turn Off S Mode - Windows 10

Windows 10 in S mode is a streamlined version of Windows 10 that only allows users to install apps from the Microsoft Store. While this mode can provide better security and performance, it can also be limiting for some users. If you want to install an app that isn't available in the Microsoft Store, you'll need to turn off S mode. This article will provide some facts about S mode, steps to turn it off, and some related questions and their answers.

Facts

Windows 10 in S mode is a version of Windows 10 that's streamlined for security and performance, while providing a familiar Windows experience. To increase security, it allows only apps from Microsoft Store and requires Microsoft Edge for safe browsing. Some devices come preinstalled with Windows 10 in S mode by the original equipment manufacturer[1].

Windows 10 in S mode is a more limited version of the Windows operating system than Windows 10. The key features of Windows 10 in S mode focus on efficiency, security, and stability. Here are some of the key features of Windows 10 in S mode[2]:

  • No third-party applications that slow down the operating system or accumulate adware in the background; all apps must be downloaded from the Microsoft Store.
  • Microsoft Edge, a browser with a simple interface and sharing features, is the only browser available in S mode.
  • Bing is the default search engine.

If you want to install an app that isn't available in the Microsoft Store, you'll need to permanently switch out of S mode. There's no charge to switch out of S mode, but you won't be able to turn it back on. If you're blocked from switching and your device belongs to an organization, check with your administrator. Your organization can choose to keep all devices in S mode[1].

Steps to turn off S mode

Here are the steps to turn off S mode:

  1. Open the Microsoft Store app on your device.
  2. Search for "Switch out of S mode."
  3. Click the "Switch out of S mode" page.
  4. Click the "Get" button.
  5. Follow the instructions to switch out of S mode.

Related questions and answers

Q. What are the benefits of S mode?

A. Windows 10 S mode is a configuration that is designed to give you faster boot times, longer battery life, and better security. However, with Windows 10 S, you can’t use certain web browsers or download any apps that are not in the Microsoft Store[3].

Q. What are the limitations of S mode?

A. The biggest functional difference compared to Windows 10 is that S mode users are restricted to apps found in Microsoft’s own Windows Store. This can be limiting for some users who need to install apps that are not available in the Microsoft Store[4].

Q. Can I switch back to S mode after turning it off?

A. No, once you switch out of S mode, you can't turn it back on[1].

Conclusion

Windows 10 in S mode is a streamlined version of Windows 10 that only allows users to install apps from the Microsoft Store. If you want to install an app that isn't available in the Microsoft Store, you'll need to turn off S mode. To turn off S mode, open the Microsoft Store app on your device, search for "Switch out of S mode," and follow the instructions. While S mode can provide better security and performance, it can also be limiting for some users.