How to Switch Out of S Mode Fast

Need to install non–Microsoft Store apps or upgrade beyond S Mode? Here’s a step-by-step guide to switch out of S Mode safely and effectively.

✅ Step 1: Confirm You’re in S Mode

• Go to Settings → System (or Update & Security) → Activation
• Look for “Windows [10/11] S Mode” or a section for Switch to Windows 10/11 Home or Pro
• If the option is missing, your device might be domain-joined, managed by an organization, or not actually in S Mode

✅ Step 2: Open “Switch Out of S Mode” Page in Microsoft Store

• Click Go to the Store next to “Switch to Windows Home/Pro” in Activation settings
• This opens a special page in Microsoft Store titled “Switch out of S Mode”
• Alternatively, search “Switch out of S Mode” directly in Microsoft Store

✅ Step 3: Click “Get” to Switch Modes

• On the Store page, click the Get button
• You’ll receive a confirmation that S Mode is now turned off — once done, your system installs apps outside Microsoft Store
• Important: This action is permanent—you can’t revert back to S Mode afterward

✅ Step 4: If You Can’t See the Option

• Ensure you’re using a local or personal Microsoft account, not a work/school account
• Install pending Windows updates, then try again 
• Try switching networks: connect to a phone hotspot or another Wi-Fi 
• Temporarily disable third-party antivirus or firewall 

✅ Step 5: (Advanced) BIOS & Registry Workarounds

Reddit recommends disabling Secure Boot in BIOS to bypass S Mode, though results vary

• Registry hack: Advanced users can toggle S Mode status in HKLM and unload hives—but this method is unofficial and risky .

🧩 Why Switch Out?

Install any traditional Win32 desktop app (Chrome, Steam, Adobe, etc.)

• Install local drivers and utilities not available in Microsoft Store
• Upgrade from Windows 11 Home (S Mode) to Pro/Enterprise or Domain-join your device

✅ FAQ

✅ Final Take

Switching out of Windows S Mode only takes a few clicks—but requires careful setup:

1. Confirm S Mode under Settings → Activation
2. Open the Switch out of S Mode page in Microsoft Store
3. Click Get to make the permanent change
4. If blocked, ensure updates are installed, use correct account type, and try another network.

Once complete, you gain full Windows app compatibility—no more S Mode restrictions. Let me know if you need help with the Store page link or reinstall steps!