Ready to break free from S mode on your Windows 11 machine? It's a straightforward process, and I'll guide you through each step. Let's get started!
Step 1: Open the Settings App - Your Gateway to Freedom!
First things first, we need to access the Settings app on your Windows 11 computer. There are a couple of easy ways to do this:
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Click the Start Button: Look for the Windows icon, usually located in the bottom-left corner of your screen. Click on it, and the Start Menu will pop up. You should see a gear-shaped icon that represents the Settings app. Click on that.
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Use the Windows Key + I Shortcut: This is a super quick way to open Settings. Simply press and hold the Windows key on your keyboard (it usually has the Windows logo) and then press the letter "I" at the same time. The Settings app will appear instantly.
Once you have the Settings app open, you're one step closer to switching out of S mode!
Step 2: Navigate to the System Section
Inside the Settings app, you'll see various categories. Our next destination is the System section.
- Look for an option that says "System". It usually has an icon that resembles a computer or a chip.
- Click on "System". This will open a new page with various system-related settings.
Step 3: Find the Activation Settings
Within the System settings, we need to locate the Activation options.
- Scroll down the list of settings on the left-hand side until you see "Activation".
- Click on "Activation". This will take you to a page that displays information about your Windows license and activation status.
Step 4: Look for the "Switch out of S mode" Option
Now, on the Activation page, you need to find the specific option to switch out of S mode.
- Look for a section that might be titled "Switch to Windows 11 Pro" or "Switch out of S mode".
- You should see a description indicating that switching out of S mode is a one-way process. It's important to understand that once you switch out of S mode, you cannot go back to it.
- There will likely be a link or a button that says something like "Go to the Store" or "Open Store". Click on this link or button.
Step 5: The Microsoft Store and the "Switch out of S mode" Page
Clicking the link in the Activation settings will take you directly to the Microsoft Store app and specifically to the "Switch out of S mode" page (or a similar page offering to upgrade from Windows 11 S).
- You should see a page with more information about switching out of S mode.
- Look for a button that says "Get". Click on this button.
Step 6: Initiate the Switching Process
Clicking the "Get" button will start the process of switching your Windows 11 out of S mode.
- You might see a progress bar or a confirmation message.
- Follow any on-screen instructions that appear.
Step 7: Confirmation and Restart (If Required)
Once the process is complete, you should see a confirmation message indicating that you have successfully switched out of S mode.
- In some cases, you might be prompted to restart your computer. If so, make sure to save any open work and click "Restart now" or follow the instructions to restart later.
Congratulations! You have now successfully switched your Windows 11 out of S mode. You can now install apps from anywhere on the web, not just the Microsoft Store.
Frequently Asked Questions: How To...
How to check if my Windows 11 is in S mode?
- Quick Answer: Open the Settings app (Windows key + I), go to System, then About. Look for the "Edition" section. If it says "Windows 11 Home in S mode" or "Windows 11 Pro in S mode", then you are currently in S mode.
How to open the Microsoft Store?
- Quick Answer: Click the Start button and search for "Microsoft Store" in the search bar. Click on the Microsoft Store app when it appears in the results. You can also usually find its icon on your taskbar or in the Start Menu.
How to know the limitations of S mode?
- Quick Answer: S mode is a more secure version of Windows that only allows you to install apps from the Microsoft Store. Some features and apps might not be available, and you can only use Microsoft Edge as your default browser.
How to install apps from outside the Microsoft Store after switching?
- Quick Answer: Once you've switched out of S mode, you can download and install .exe files and other application installers directly from the internet, just like a regular version of Windows.
How to switch back to S mode if I change my mind?
- Quick Answer: Unfortunately, switching out of S mode is a one-way process. Once you make the switch, you cannot go back to running Windows 11 in S mode.
How to ensure my computer is secure after switching out of S mode?
- Quick Answer: Install a reputable third-party antivirus software, keep Windows Defender enabled, be cautious about the files you download and the websites you visit, and keep your operating system and applications updated.
How to troubleshoot if I don't see the "Switch out of S mode" option?
- Quick Answer: Ensure your Windows 11 is activated. Sometimes, this option might not appear if your Windows license hasn't been properly activated. Also, make sure you have a stable internet connection when trying to access the Microsoft Store.
How to know if switching out of S mode will affect my files?
- Quick Answer: Switching out of S mode will not delete your personal files. Your documents, photos, and other data will remain untouched during the process.
How to check if a specific app is compatible with S mode before switching?
- Quick Answer: You can search for the app in the Microsoft Store. If it's available there, it's compatible with S mode. If it's not in the Store, you'll need to switch out of S mode to install it.
How to get help if I encounter issues while switching out of S mode?
- Quick Answer: You can visit the official Microsoft support website, search for articles related to switching out of S mode, or contact Microsoft support directly for assistance.