What is Windows S Mode and should I disable it?

When you buy a PC, you might notice you can install Windows S Mode the first time you boot it up, a mode that’s closer to ChromeOS than the full-fledged Windows 11.

It only lets you download apps from the Microsoft Store, and you lose access to command line prompts and Windows registry files. According to Microsoft, Windows S Mode is meant to keep its users safer by allowing only approved apps and limited access to the system. But if you know your way around a computer, you probably do not need it.

What is Windows S Mode?

First, let’s dispel a common myth: you can use several different browsers in Windows S Mode—as long as you download them from the Microsoft Store. But won’t be able to set anything but Microsoft Edge as your default browser. Mozilla Firefox, Brave Browser, Opera Browser / Opera GX, and BlueSky Browser are some available options. (Google Chrome, by far the world’s most popular browser, is not on the Microsoft Store at the time of writing.)

If you need to use a printer or connect a mouse, most peripherals that work with regular Windows should work with Windows S Mode. Some hardware may only have limited functionality access for security purposes, so we recommend checking with the hardware’s manufacturer for more details on compatibility.

Regardless of the app or software you need to use, if you can’t download it from the Microsoft Store, you cannot install it. By far, this is the biggest drawback to Windows S Mode, since you’re missing out on millions of safe app options available in regular Windows mode.

The other major drawback to Windows S Mode is you have limited OS functionality. While in Windows S Mode, you will lose access to the Windows command line terminals, code editors, and the Windows registry. While most users won’t need these tools anyway, they can be helpful when troubleshooting PC issues.

When should I use Windows S Mode?

Because of S Mode’s limited functionality, it’s a good option for those who don’t want to think about their computer security. Without access to the command line and apps not approved for the Microsoft Store, it’s much harder to download and execute malicious files or software. In a way, it emulates the iOS / iPadOS experience.

Those inexperienced with computers and those who need guaranteed security (such as those working with confidential files) will benefit the most from S Mode.

How do I enable S Mode?

That depends on what version of Windows you have. You cannot enable Windows S Mode on a Windows 10 or 11 Pro, Enterprise, or Education license. You must have a Home license. If you want to upgrade from a Home license to one of the others, you have to switch out of S Mode permanently.

The second caveat is that you only get one shot to use Windows S Mode. In most cases, S Mode is preinstalled by the manufacturer on the new device. Installing S Mode yourself is a complicated process that is generally not recommended for most users.

If you’re still determined, Microsoft provides instructions on their website for installing Windows 10 S Mode.

How do I check if I’m running S Mode?

You can check in your computer settings by going to the About page.

From the Settings menu, go to System, and click on About at the bottom of the submenu.

Alternatively, you can type in System Information in the search bar located on the Taskbar.

How do I disable Windows S Mode?

Again, once you disable Windows S Mode, you cannot go back to it.

Go to Settings -> System -> Activation.
Under the Switch to Windows 11 Home / Pro section, click Go to the Store. This opens the Microsoft Store to a specific page titled Switch out of S Mode.

Start the process by selecting Get and follow the on-page instructions.

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