Switching out of S mode in Windows on a personal device

Issue

I am unable to download software since my computer is in S-Mode.

 

Environment

  • Windows 10 and 11
  • Personal devices - not GRCC issued

 

Information

Windows in S mode is designed for security and performance, exclusively running apps from the Microsoft Store. If you want to install an app that isn't available in the Microsoft Store, you'll need to switch out of S mode. Switching out of S mode is one-way. If you make the switch, you won't be able to go back to Windows 10 in S mode. There's no charge to switch out of S mode.

 

Process

Windows 10

  1. Open Settings
  2. Click Update & Security  
  3. Click Activation
  4. Click Go to the Store in the Switch to Windows Home or Switch to Windows Pro section
  5. Click Get on the Switch out of S mode (or similar) page

Windows 11

  1. Open Settings
  2. Click System
  3. Click Activation
  4. Click Go to the Store in the Switch to Windows Pro section
  5. Click Get on the Switch out of S mode (or similar) page
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