What Is Windows 11 S Mode and How to Use It

Plus, the downside of using it

S Mode is a relatively new feature available on both Windows 10 and Windows 11 that boosts security and performance. It makes your Windows PC run apps exclusively from the Microsoft Store, ensuring that no malicious software can be activated.

In this article, we’ll explain what Windows 11 S Mode is and how to use it (or not).

What Is Windows S Mode?

S Mode was introduced with Windows 10 as a security mode that prevents apps from outside the Microsoft Store from being able to run. In Windows 10, S Mode is available inWindows 10 Home, Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, and Education Editions.

In Windows 11, S Mode is only available onWindows 11 Home Edition. It isn’t available on any other edition of Windows. This means that to upgrade from Windows 10 in any of these editions, you’ll need to switch out of S mode.

The main purpose of S Mode is to freeze all non-Microsoft processes so that your computer can free up RAM and other resources to run better. This makes it quite similar to Chromebooks, which mostly limit app options to their web versions.

Finally, switching out of S Mode is a one-way affair. Once you’ve switched to normal Windows, it’s impossible to switch back. There’s also no charge associated with switching out of S Mode, but you cannot switch it back on.

When Should You Use Windows S Mode?

Here are a few examples of people who could benefit from S Mode:

The Downsides of Windows S Mode

S Mode is extremely limiting and isn’t suitable for many users — especially those who like to customize their PC and have freedom over what programs they install and use.

Here are some reasons you might not want to use Windows S Mode:

How to Check if You’re Using Windows S Mode

You can easily find out if your PC is in S Mode or not. To do so:

How to Activate S Mode in Windows 11

S Mode comes pre-installed with the Windows operating system. You have to activate it when setting the device up for the first time. If you originally set up Windows 11 Home Edition in the normal mode, you won’t be able to activate S Mode.

Some Microsoft PCs, like someMicrosoft Surfacemodels, come with S Mode pre-activated.

How to Leave S Mode in Windows 11

Just to reiterate, leaving S Mode isirreversible. If you follow these instructions, you won’t be able to put your PC back into S Mode.

If you still want to continue, here’s how to leave S Mode:

Windows S Mode: Fast, Safe, and Limited

S Mode in Windows 11 is an interesting version of Windows that some users may find useful. However, because it has limited features, many users may find it to be more trouble than it’s worth. For this reason, if you want the full Windows experience, we recommend not using S Mode.

Jake Harfield is an Australian freelance writer whose passion is finding out how different technologies work. He has written for several online publications, focusing on explaining what he has learned to help others with their tech problems. He’s an avid hiker and birder, and in his spare time you’ll find him in the Aussie bush listening to the birdsong.Read Jake’s Full Bio

Welcome to Help Desk Geek- a blog full of tech tips from trusted tech experts. We have thousands of articles and guides to help you troubleshoot any issue. Our articles have been read over 150 million times since we launched in 2008.

HomeAbout UsEditorial StandardsContact UsTerms of Use

Copyright © 2008-2024 Help Desk Geek.com, LLC All Rights Reserved