Windows 11: Turn off S Mode

Summary

New laptops often come in S Mode, and while some people really should stay with that mode it is not ideal or recommended to stay in when attending classes at DMACC here is how to disable it.

Body

New Windows laptops often come in S Mode by default. S Mode prohibits users from downloading software outside the Microsoft Store and will cause issues with downloading programs that you will need when taking classes here at DMACC (e.g., Respondus Lockdown Browser, Google Chrome, etc.). Luckily, you can turn S Mode off!

  1. Open Settings > System > Activation
    • System tab in Settings
    • Activation button in Settings
  2. There should be a box under Activation State that says "S Mode"
  3. Expand the S Mode drop down and click Open Store
    • S-Mode setting in Windows Settings
  4. Once the Microsoft Store opens, there should be a prompt on the screen about turning off S Mode
    • Click Get
    • S-Mode prompt in Microsoft Store
  5. Restart the computer
  6. Once rebooted, S Mode should now be disabled

Details

Details

Article ID: 27440
Created
Mon 1/12/26 1:49 PM
Modified
Mon 1/12/26 1:49 PM