In Windows 10 and 11, Windows S Mode is a feature designed to enhance security and performance by only allowing apps from the Microsoft Store and using Microsoft Edge for safe browsing. If you want to install an app that is not available in the Microsoft Store, you will need to switch out of S Mode. Once you switch out of S Mode, you will not be able to turn it back on.
1. Open Settings (click on the Start menu and select the gear icon).
2. Under System, scroll down and click About.
3. Under the "Windows specifications" section, look for the "Edition" entry. If it says something like "Windows 10 in S Mode" or "Windows 11 in S Mode," then the device is in S Mode.
1. Open Settings (gear icon) > Update & Security > Activation.
2. Find the Switch to Windows 10 Home or Switch to Windows 10 Pro section, then select the Go to the Store link. (Do not select the link under Upgrade your edition of Windows; that is a different process that will keep you in S Mode.)
3. On the page that appears in the Microsoft Store (Switch out of S Mode or a similar page), select the Get button. After you confirm this action, you will be able to install apps from outside the Microsoft Store.
Note: Support for Windows 10 ended on October 14, 2025.
1. Open Settings (gear icon) > System > Activation.
2. Find the Switch to Windows 11 Pro section, then select the Go to the Store link. (Do not select the link under Upgrade your edition of Windows; that is a different process that will keep you in S Mode.)
3. On the page that appears in the Microsoft Store (Switch out of S Mode or a similar page), select the Get button. After you confirm this action, you will be able to install apps from outside the Microsoft Store.
Additional information can be found on the Microsoft S Mode Support Site.