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Is your laptop running a limited version of Windows 11? Windows 11 S mode is a lesser-known feature that locks down the operating system.
S mode or Secure mode makes Windows safer. But, it also takes away your computer’s flexibility.
Why does the S mode exist and how to switch out of it? Should you?
We’ll answer those questions and more. Here’s your complete guide to Windows 11 S mode.
Are you here just to switch out of S Mode? Jump to that section.
S mode or Secure mode makes Windows safer
Table of Contents
What is Windows 11 S Mode?
Before you switch out of S mode, here’s everything you need to know about it.
You should remember that S Mode isn’t Safe Mode.
Because of their similar names, it’s easy to confuse S mode with Safe mode.
But unlike S mode, Windows Safe Mode is a diagnostic tool. When triggered, Windows 11 boots into a safe mode with only the core features and services. It helps you troubleshoot problems. Upon the next restart, you boot into standard Windows.
First things first: how did your laptop get into S mode? 99% of the time, the device comes with the S mode already enabled.
In S Mode, you can only get your apps from the Microsoft Store.
Executable “.exe” installers will not work when your Windows runs in S mode. And given that the Microsoft Store only offers some 10,000 apps, many popular games and apps won’t install on your laptop in S mode. So, if you just got a great budget gaming laptop but it’s in S mode, you’d have to get out of it first.
It also means you’re stuck with Microsoft’s Edge browser. Google Chrome or Firefox aren’t available in the Store.
You can’t even change your default search engine to Google. Bing is your only option.
BUT you can download Opera, Brave, and a few other browsers from the Store. Again, you can’t make them your default browser.
In that regard, Windows S feels almost like the ChromeOS equivalent of Windows 11.
Custom drivers, custom enterprise software, third-party antivirus, Windows Registry, and most command line features are also off the table.
Most peripherals like printers should work fine (but the S mode could limit their functionality).
Is My Windows 11 in S Mode?
Windows 11 S mode looks and feels exactly like the standard Windows 11. But when you try to install an app, you’ll get a popup warning telling you to go to the Microsoft Store.
There’s a simpler method to check if your Windows 11 is in S mode:
- Click the Windows icon on the taskbar to open up the Start Menu.
- Click the Settings button.
- In the System menu, scroll down to About.
- Select About.
- The Windows Edition running on your device will be listed under the Windows specifications section.
Check if it reads “S Mode” next to the Edition. If it does, your Windows 11 is in S mode. If it doesn’t, you’re using one of the many standard versions of Windows.
Who is S Mode For?
So why does S mode exist in the first place, if it’s so limited and restricted?
The answer is security and simplicity.
The S Mode in Windows 11 is specifically designed to put security and performance first.
It does so by limiting user privileges. But you can speed up your Windows without S mode restrictions too.
Unlike the standard Windows, S mode doesn’t allow root access. Root access is how you install unapproved apps or configure system settings. But it also opens you up to security risks.
S mode is great for new users who are still learning best practices for digital security and safety.
It protects seniors and children who aren’t very tech-savvy. Their Windows device will not get attacked while in S mode.
Schools, businesses, and public institutions can secure their machines with S mode. It works for any organization where users might install potentially harmful or unapproved software on their devices.
That’s actually why manufacturers ship their budget-friendly or education-focused models with S mode preinstalled.
How to Get Apps in S Mode?
If you want to stay in S mode, here’s how you can download new apps.
- Click the Windows icon on the taskbar to open up the Start menu.
- Click Microsoft Store.
- Browse the catalog or search for a specific Store app.
- Select the app of your choice.
- Click Get.
But if you want to turn off the S mode, read on. We’ll break down exactly how to do that.
Should I Switch Out of S Mode?
Switching out of S mode is a one-way path. You cannot go back to S mode after switching to the standard Windows.
Turning off S mode is free, though.
You might want to switch out of S mode for one of two reasons:
- You don’t need the safe browsing and security restrictions.
- You want to upgrade to the Pro, Education, or Enterprise editions of Windows 11 (S mode only works in Windows 11 Home).
Once you have switched out of S mode, you’ll be given full control over your Windows device.
All browsers will work and they can be set to the default search of your choice. Peripherals like printers will be fully functional. You can access the Registry or Terminal. Everything will work as it should.
Side note: Technically, it is possible to go back to S mode after it’s disabled. But it’s a complicated process that involves resetting the device and erasing all user data.
How to Switch out of S Mode
With the quick disclaimer out of the way, here’s how you can switch out of S mode in Windows 11.
It’s a simple process. You’ll use the Microsoft Store to get the full version of Windows.
On your Windows in S mode:
- Click the Windows icon on the taskbar panel to pull up the Start menu
- Click Settings
- On the System tab, scroll down to Activation
- Select Activation
- Select Switch to Windows 11 Pro
- Click Go to the Store button
- In the Microsoft Store, click the Get button under Switch out of S mode
- Click Confirm
- Follow on-screen instructions to complete the process.
Now you can install any app from outside the Microsoft Store.
Windows 11 S Mode: Pros and Cons
Staying in S mode
- Pros
- Bulletproof security: Only vetted, approved apps are allowed onto the system
- Simple and streamlined: Simplified OS that doesn’t overwhelm users, updates are automatic, perfect for new users
- Faster and smoother: Preconfigured for lower-end hardware to maximize performance
- Cons
- Limited software selection: No broad compatibility with apps and games
- Restricted access: Very limited control over system configuration, optimization, or customization
- Forced updates: You can’t opt out of or delay updates
Switching out of S mode
- Pros
- Flexibility: You can download or install any compatible app, game, or driver
- Root access: You have complete control over system settings and optimization
- Updates: You can choose when to update and what
- Cons
- Potential safety risks: Unverified and unapproved apps might be malicious
- Confusing: The complexity of configurations might overwhelm new users
- Security risk: Without forced updates, you might miss critical security patches
FAQs about Windows 11 in S Mode
What does S mode mean?
S mode means you’re running a restricted edition of Windows 10 Home and Windows 11 Home. It limits user control to increase security and performance. No apps outside the Microsoft Store are allowed.
Can I switch back to S mode?
Once S mode is deactivated, you cannot return to S mode. It’s a one-way action.
Is Windows 11 S mode good or bad?
S mode has its pros and cons. It delivers better security and streamlined performance. But it greatly limits the user experience and access.
How to get out of Windows 11 S mode?
You’ll need to switch to Windows 11 Pro edition using the Microsoft Store. The exact steps are laid out in this guide.
How to install Chrome or Firefox in S Mode?
You cannot install Google Chrome or Firefox in Windows S mode. That’s because these browsers aren’t available in the Microsoft Store. Additionally, Microsoft Edge is always the default browser.
Is Windows S mode faster?
Windows 11 in S mode tends to be faster when loading apps or booting up. That’s because there aren’t as many apps and services.
Should I turn off S mode in Windows 11?
S mode offers better security and performance. Users cannot install apps or games outside the Microsoft Store, which makes the environment safer. It’s great for novice users and organizations. But if you don’t need the extra security restrictions, consider turning off the S mode.
Will my printer work in Windows 11 S mode?
Peripherals like your printer should work. According to Microsoft, their functionality may be limited in S mode.
What antivirus works in S Mode?
No third-party antivirus software will work in S mode. Your only option is to use Windows Defender, which is available by default in your Windows.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, Windows 11 S mode keeps your computer safe and secure. But it takes away software and customization features. If you’re a power user, you should definitely disable S mode. But for less tech-savvy seniors and kids, it’s best to leave it enabled.
Have you used Windows 11 in S mode? Let us know in the comments below! Also check out our tips and tricks page for more helpful tech guides.