STOP using Windows S-mode without knowing THIS!

[@DirkThys]

I came across S-mode when a friend couldn't install OpenOffice on his new laptop (he can't use MS Office because he needs to be able to work offline on his documents). I had to do some looking up to evaluate the consequences of switching S-mode off. You explain it perfectly; I wish I had had your video at the time ! 👍

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Thank you, I appreciate that! Maybe it will help someone down the road in your former situation 👍

[@Mr371312]

Wait MSoffice is always-online now??

[@D.von.N]

I have MS office and I can work offlie. I purchased the one-off version, never pid for the 365 rip-off. Afte about 2 years I am using the software for free now.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

I don't think so. Not that I'm aware of. Synchronization to OneDrive obviously has to be done online, but it shouldn't prevent you from opening Office and working on an existing document on the PC

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

👍

[@Justume]

Thank you for your service! I am a Vietnam Era vet. I checked and fortunately I do not have 'S' mode on this Windows 10 Professional computer. I had no idea such a thing existed until your video. My rig is, as much as possible, under my complete control and since I do not meet Microsoft standards for Windows 11, I do not have to worry about more heavy-handed MS malarkey. I have read and listened on how to install Windows 11 without the MS permissions/requirements, but someone said that if a person were to do that they would also probably be prevented from getting the upgrades - Talk About Dictatorship!!! I thought of using a Linux distro, and I have a few on a thumb drive but have not installed. Microsoft seems to say: "You might try something else for an OS." That is not a sound business practice.

[@dimitristripakis7364]

Highs school computer teacher here. The strangest thing happened today. We have a laptop at school which was in S mode (another teacher could not install a program, that's how we found out). So I try to remove the S mode and it says "we will send you a code to this email", and it was the school's email (obviously someone had set this up). So I click "Send code", it sends the code, I type in the code and it replies "There was an error". Try again, same. Just a vague "There was an error". Then I go back and try "Use Microsoft account" and in the account I put in MY personal account and voila! It got unlocked! Now I had not set up the computer so there is no way it was my account there before. So my question is "If a random outlook user can use his account to remove S, then what's the point of all this fuss in the first place ?" Microsoft says "S mode is safer, you will only be able to download from Microsoft store". Well, I think it is clear what they are trying to do. I hate companies who take people for idiots.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Agreed

[@KennethThePainter]

MS still has a sore butt form losing the anti-trust case involving IE, alas, revenge is theirs !!!

[@bills6946]

You have to go to “Location” setting and set your correct location, then you can opt out of S mode.

[@RonHelton]

I knew my version of windows 10 was not in s mode the minute you said that one can not access the command prompt. This is one of the first things that I do with any new computer to poke around in the system and to make personal directories. Thanks for the information!

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

You're welcome!

[@johntheoldmod]

Call me cynical but I'd guess Spy mode

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

LOL possibly! Didn't even think of that one 😂

[@JoyKOz]

LMAO !!! 😂🤣😂🤣

[@annacurransmotherofmeghanc1841]

I guessed Stoo’pid mode😅🤣😂

[@joeschmoe3815]

Spy mode is on always on anyways

[@linux9846]

👏🏻👍🏻👌🏻

[@mbsoysal87]

I didn't even know there was an S mode. This has been a very useful video, thanks.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

You're welcome! 👍

[@Nigelrathbone1]

Its wort turning off just to use a prefered browser.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Not understanding your comment

[@parappathehip-hopgoblin5151]

the bane of my "quote me a computer, then I'll go buy one myself for cheaper then send it to you to set it up for me which will ultimately cost more when I have to take shit mode off and upgrade it from home to pro anyway" IT worker existence

[@SmartCookie2022]

Excellent piece. Just to give you my own feedback based upon my eldlerly father's use of S-mode, I find it's working much better than not having the function. Previously, there wasn't a week or a month that didn't go by without my father needing some kind of assistance with a PC problem. Not anymore!! After purchasing a new PC over 6 months ago with S-mode enabled, my father hasn't had an issues with his PC at all. Personally, I find this a blessing.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Agreed! As I said in the video, S-mode does have it's place...your situation being a perfect example of when it's a good thing 👍

[@orsoncart802]

You won’t believe this. I bought a cheapo, back-up laptop a week ago and have yet to switch it on and set it up. In the meantime I discovered that it is a Windows 11S job. There was no mention of this, or indeed even that it was a Windows machine, in the store or on the laptop itself-no Windows sticker. (The store’s display laptop, however, was clearly running Windows.) I wondered why at the time. I’d never heard of S-mode before and knew I had to look into it before I even started. And then your video popped up! Beautiful! Superb timing! I’m all ears! Thank you. 😁👍👍👍

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Awesome! So glad to be able to help you out 👍💪❤️

[@brianwest2775]

S mode sounds like a good idea for novices but, as usual, MS goes to far and restricts things such as the default search engine, which is a purely marketing move, not a safety, simplicity or usability move.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Very well said! I agree 100%

[@KOrnhOliO1]

Yeah, using only Edge and Bing! UGH! NO WAY!

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

@KOrnhOliO1 agreed!!!

[@lakeysterjones1071]

Thank you for this I’ve purchased a hp laptop and could not figure why I couldn’t make google chrome my default , I sent several complaints to Hp no one could help me by coming across your video I understand now

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Glad I could help!

[@CapellaStars]

I am somewhat technical, and support my fellow seniors who are very technically challenged. One 80+ year old friend was having a problem with his new laptop, and I picked up his machine to try to figure out what his issue was. That's when I discovered "S(tupid) Mode". I could not get out of S Mode, and then get back back into S mode. The problem happened to be just a simple user error, so he was back in business. I left the laptop in S-Mode. It seemed to protect him against his rather awkward practice in using the machine...

[@jeremythered74]

I was happy just to see a new video from you Bud, was worried bout ya, haven't heard from you in a while... Glad to see You Again!

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Thx Jeremy 👍

[@bencrow1298]

My laptop won't switch out. 😮. I'll have to do a bit more research. I did everything precisely as you instructed, didn't work. Tried it several times. Still no luck. I'm sure it can be done, but the easy way won't work for me. I did enjoy the video, very informative 😊😊

[@sr.dorothyrobinson105]

Stupid mode, silly mode... Honestly, if people want a chromebook, why not just buy one? And your investigation shows just how "safe" S mode is. It's also extremely annoying to people who actually want to get some work done. Thanks for your video!

[@KOrnhOliO1]

But, a Chriomebook only runs Chrome! Can't run any other Browser. At least an S mode PC still runs Windows! And, even though you can only install apps from the Windows store, there are a ton in that store, and they can still be installed. Chromebooks can't install ANY windows apps!!! So, an S mode PC is way better than a Chromebook. Plus, you can always just turn off S mode. :)

[@originaldanman]

Though I'm not professional, I've been using MS for over 30 years since DOS 5, built installed, and repaired many computers and have never seen this on system, so I learned something new today. Thank you

[@jimodell99]

Good lesson! I wasn't aware of S Mode. But the fact that it mandates using Bing, I'll be turning it off on my new Win 11 build I'm in the middle of. I've used Malware Bytes for years along with IOBIT malware, and a VPN. Those three things have kept my computer clean.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Nice!

[@nr3157]

I don't know much about S mode, but my computer came with Windows 10 and I can go to the command line CMD and registry without any problems, also I easily installed google chrome and other programs. I am able to set Google Chrome as my default browser so I guess my Windows 10 computer did not come setup with S mode@@AskYourComputerGuy

[@kemalthom475]

@@nr3157 That means your computer was not new and was most likely previously used

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Sounds like you were not in S mode

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Orrrrrrr.....more likely, it didn't come with S-mode enabled 🤷‍♂️

[@benthereddog]

This video is pretty useful to me because I'm wondering wether I should get rid of S mode on my computer or not. I'm not the kind of person to tweak my PC or stuff, but I do have a few games and apps that I can't download because of it and it is pretty annoying. But because I also use it for university, I'm still hesitant about that. At least now I have a few more clues to make my choice, so thanks a lot !

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

All about educating people so they can decide what's best for themselves 👍

[@Ivan_Glamdryng]

"Senior Mode". I resemble that remark. Thank you for the education.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

LOL I'm in my mid 50's. I qualify 😂

[@motivated2010]

Thank you I had no idea what S mode was and was looking to purchase a chromebook with this feature..

[@sihamhamda47]

The computer lab and public library in my university has all computers running in Windows S Mode, and all those devices are from the licensed partner deals with some computer manufacturers I think those are the only conditions where Windows S Mode is actually useful, as it prevents someone to modify the OS or installing sketchy stuff to the public computer facility

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Agreed. As said in the video, for organizations with IT management, it definitely keeps a "clean" machine actually clean. It definitely has its perks 👍

[@mateuszliese1059]

Bill needs to be put in jail already. At least on amazon it it shoud say in big letters the computer has s mode and that if infringeses on your freedoms.

[@TheBigBlueMarble]

You do realize that Bill Gates really has nothing to do with the running of Microsoft anymore.

[@davinp]

S mode is a feature-limited edition of Windows 10 designed primarily for low-end devices in the education market. This is to compete with Google Chromebook. Many schools now issue laptops to students, so they wanted to have a locked-down version of Windows.

[@coshvjicujmlqef6047]

So what? Then why not just give a toggle at login screen to switch instead of a system wide setting?

[@User9681e]

​@@coshvjicujmlqef6047now they bug the kernel with rust too

[@williambaldwin9346]

The "S" in Windows 10 S Mode doesn't have a specific meaning; it's simply a designation used by Microsoft to differentiate this mode from the regular Windows 10 Home or Pro editions. It doesn't stand for any particular word or concept, unlike some other Windows editions where letters in the name have specific meanings, such as "N" for Windows N editions (which come without Windows Media Player) or "LTSC" for Windows 10 Long-Term Servicing Channel editions.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Good to know! 👍

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

@ianmcnamee1652 I'll get right on that. He's usually quick to respond 😂

[@bxdanny]

I agree, there should be an option when booting whether to have S-mode on or not. Or perhaps have user accounts that are limited to S-mode, and others that aren't. I guess they don't do that because, once the machine has been out of S-mode, changes could have been made to it. So it should identify itself as being in a re-enabled S-mode. BTW, will it run portable .exe files that don't need to be "installed"? Or does it just refuse to execute them?

[@teknixstuff]

It refuses anything outside the store.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

@teknixstuff that's how it is designed. You have to follow the directions and download the plug in from the store to disable it

[@teknixstuff]

@@AskYourComputerGuy Technically it's not a plugin (it's just changing a single registry value), and you can manually enable or disable S mode without the store in fact. Just don't use S mode on an LTSC edition without first installing the store, or else you'll have a bad time (LTSC does not include the store).

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

@teknixstuff technically, you're correct. I try to speak layman in my responses. Most people just want it fixed, they don't care what it's actually called 👍

[@eddiec4536]

Wow, thank you. I bought a new laptop, and I did not know about S mode. It would not allow me to load my Mailbird email program. I followed your instructions to disable S mode and it worked great, is now good. Thank you, sir.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Fantastic!!! ❤️

[@rosierollin]

Im so happy you are here, Thank you so much ! new sub and much appreciated !

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Thank you, much appreciated 👍

[@rosierollin]

@@AskYourComputerGuy thank you 🙏 for providing such Great Videos !!!

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

❤️

[@AmbroseB1900]

I recently purchased a new laptop with W11 s mode. I only heard of it the night before when looking for laptops so I checked it out saw it wasn't for me as I use Google Chrome and Libre Office, but I noted that it could be turned off. However when I got the laptop set up, my first task was to download Mcafee as I recently bought the unlimited device version. It would not download and I was directed to the MS Store where Mcafee was available, but only if you buy a new version, so I started the process to turn s mode off. Unfortunately you have to be fully signed into your MS account, usually not a problem, but a week or so before, I had changed my backup email which froze me out of my account for 30 days so I had to set up a new MS account on a different email! I got out of s mode in the end but it was a bit of an obstacle course. Maybe the s stands for "sneaky"!

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

I'll add that "S" term to the ever-growing list 😂

[@VarVarJeg]

the biggest crime is not windows locking your pc its you using mcafee

[@DireNeeds]

I've heard of S-Mode but I guess I did not fully understand what it was. lol I guess I didn't care but after watching this I do now understand what it is and I'm glad I know. Great video!

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Glad my video informed you, I appreciate the compliment 👍

[@gins8781]

I hadn’t even heard of S Mode until 3 days ago. I was looking for a new computer and it was in the description of one of them.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Well at least now you know if it was a good deal that you can disable it 👍

[@JJayDevil]

@@AskYourComputerGuyit won’t let me disable it!!

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

@HelgaAndLisaClips what happens when you try? Try this: www.makeuseof.com/fix-cant-switch-out-of-s-mode-windows-11/#:~:text=It's%20not%20difficult%20to%20solve,the%20issue%20if%20everything%20fails.

[@JJayDevil]

@@AskYourComputerGuy yes i went through that exact webpage. still says SOMETHING HAPPENED AND WE COULDNT START THE UPGRADE when i press the GET button

[@JJayDevil]

@@AskYourComputerGuy i’ve restarted it, i’ve tried to shut off secure boot but then i need a syskey that i don’t know where to get it from

[@ThisBytesForYou]

great video bud, blew me away again

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Thank you, Iggs! We got this together, bad boys for life 💪👍

[@shadowminister4090]

Hi Scott, I'm in the market for a computer and had seen the term "S Mode" in the specs and looked up what it meant. Potentially, this could work for me, but coming from an old computer that ran Ubuntu, I have no idea what is in the Microsoft Store! (For the wife, S-Mode, might be a good option. She's not good with computers). I agree 100% that being able to toggle it On and Off would really be a good option.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

You can (at worse) create a Microsoft login and browse the store to see what apps are available before pulling the trigger. I'd still get an S-mode and disable it (at worst), but it would be nice to have that choice

[@terrytari1891]

Thanks, Computer GUY, HAPPY HOLIDAYS & New YEARS FOR YOU & YOUR FAMILY & FRIENDS!

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Thank you, you as well! ❤️

[@terrytari1891]

@@AskYourComputerGuy Thank you, Guy, I learned a lot from you! Knowledge can be more important than money!

[@johnkelly9429]

Worked perfectly, thank you!!!

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Awesome!

[@joachim.charleshogg4728]

Thank you for the insight to the S mode. Saved me a lot of heartache. Regards.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Good deal!

[@pastorisaacbridges8660]

Very helpful video. I bought a laptop for my daughter and it cam "S"-mode enabled. I wasn't sure what to do because she wanted to use a more familiar browser than edge. Your video gave me the knowledge to make an informed decision.🖥

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Fantastic! Thanks for sharing 👍

[@cra.cra._paityn]

what decesion did u make?

[@DirkThys]

In the Windows 10 S FAQ (at 0:50) it says "Microsoft's streamlined operating system", so I guess S-mode stands for "Streamlined mode"

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Seems the most logical to me so far 👍

[@morganfbilbo4659]

And as I have stated. Whatever S stands for, it's NOT SAFE!

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

@morganfbilbo4659 I would argue exactly the opposite of that. S-mode, by design, limiting people from basically doing anything on their own, makes Windows safer than "normal"

[@edwardritchie2844]

Thank you for this video until now i've never heard of S mode made my life a bit easier

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

You're welcome! I'm all about educating people 👍

[@ConaLes]

This sounds perfect for me. I'm a new programmer and should use any protection from any mistake I could potential cause. What I need now is to practice coding and learn HTML. If it will warn me of any illegal activity I do would be great too. I also like the limits on background activity!

[@pineappleroad]

For anyone installing Windows 10 or 11 onto a computer that doesn’t come with an OS pre-loaded (such as self build), you shouldn’t have to worry about S mode, as unless there is a flag in the BIOS/UEFI to enable it (or you (or the system builder) set the required values to enable S mode during installation, which are not options you can select in the UI, since this is technically an OEM only feature) then S mode will not be enabled

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Agreed. S-mode is OEM specific 👍

[@fishmongerama]

I heard that you can't bypass the microsoft account and set-up a local account without deleting s-mode. I need confirmation about this and how do i know if my laptop has s-mode?.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

I show in the video how to check if your machine is in S-mode. Not sure about switching to local in S-mode. I always disable it first so I'm not even sure. But here's how to change to local account regardless: 9 Windows settings EVERY user should change NOW! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oGiThoKCi7Rnf5Y

[@user-dp9en7ir1y]

Not every app in the Microsoft store is downloadable onto S Mode. I have S Mode and cant download some apps from the store.

[@BillW50]

Ain't that the truth!

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

I'm not sure why that would be the case. S-mode is specifically designed to *only* allow apps from the store 🤷‍♂️

[@user-dp9en7ir1y]

@@AskYourComputerGuyIt's true. I couldn't download some of the apps there.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

@user-dp9en7ir1y interesting. I would contact Microsoft if a specific app won't download without any errors to go with it

[@user-dp9en7ir1y]

@@AskYourComputerGuy Why is Avast anti virus in the Microsoft store. I tried to get that app and it was blocked. There were others as well.

[@prunoRecipes]

S-mode disable starts at 8:08. Pruno PS could not install my browser and adblocker because of S-mode. The newer versions of windows 11 prevent you from using the command prompt to disable S-mode. About to try this simplified version.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Some people actually want to know what S-mode is before automatically disabling it 🤷‍♂️

[@chrisday2341]

Thx for all ur videos.they r helpful

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Glad you like them!

[@SamuelVain]

Until now I didn't know it existed and after learning about it I don't think I want it running on my laptop. I tend to do some of the things you mentioned s mode might prevent one from doing. Like running my own security sweeps and registry error cleanups.

[@gorilladisco9108]

S mode stands for (S)tupid mode.

[@CRgolf75]

For a high school and college laptop, would you say I should keep it or get rid of it? Because my school runs stuff with mostly google stuff, and I’m not sure if I will be able to access everything with it on. I would make sure but I have no idea what apps and websites I will need for my classes so I want your opinion if you see this.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Great question! Don't do anything yet. Find out the apps you will need first. Then search the Microsoft store for those apps. If they're all there, keep S-mode enabled. If not, disable it and run whatever you wish 👍

[@CRgolf75]

@@AskYourComputerGuyokay, that’s what I thought, thanks for the advice

[@Killer_Sharkz]

S mode is a pain. I found that sometimes when taking a computer out of s mode and can just comeback. Then you cannot to come out of s mode again. Doesn't matter if you do a registry fix. Found a temp solution to disable secure boot and it forces it out of s mode. Majority of the time i end up reloading it. S mode would be nice as a per user toggle when making the account.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

THAT would be a fantastic option, S mode per user! Love it

[@ernestmedina2448]

Just ran into this on Windows 11 machine I agree the should make it to toggle back and forth but like apple and amazon want to use monopolization to generate a tight circle not for trust but for profit for one entity it's self. Also if s-mode so good how was malware able to by pass it as well as defender. Sounds like a controlling mechanism.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Perhaps 🤷‍♂️

[@bowler3458]

WOW< Talk about easy !!! Thanks so much for this video, Just what I needed, easy easy. Thanks again.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

You're welcome! 👍

[@dennissmith1469]

Awesome video! Even checked to see if i even had s-mode but my old machine no go!

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Thank you, my friend 💪👍

[@dennissmith1469]

@AskYourComputerGuy thank you, sir, for being a Teacher and educator! World could use more folks like you.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

@dennissmith1469 I appreciate that 👍

[@ragnarokxg2113]

I use S mode for my younger son, and since setting it up that way it has prevented a lot of headaches.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

That's a perfect excuse to use it! 100%

[@rantym35]

Thats a great video thumbail 👍

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

LOL thx

[@nikolajsananes8749]

Wife wanted a computer that just works and where she is ONLY going to write on word and save in one-drive. For that a cheap laptop with s-mode is perfect. But then she joined an online course and now she cannot join the zoom meeting because zoom isnt approved by windows store. How could zoom be an safety issue? Thanks for the tutorial on shutting off s-mode

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Because Microsoft said so I guess 🤷‍♂️

[@jeremythered74]

👍👍 As Always, Thank You SO Much!!

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

My pleasure!

[@melissafletcher3994]

Hi! I need to install Respondus LockDown for online college tests but says "to get this app you need to switch out of s-mode". Will this be safe for my computer and do I need to download a security program if i do this?? Thanks for any help

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

S-mode is just Microsoft pretending to "protect" you. You can disable it but you can't re-enable it without doing a factory recovery. Just FYI

[@melissafletcher3994]

Thanks so much for your reply! Should I have an antivirus and if so, which is the best for free?

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

@melissafletcher3994 you definitely need antivirus program. You could stick with Windows Defender which isn't horrible, or go with a higher quality program like Eset. That's what I recommend. I also have a video coming out about Eset vs the program I used to use...so stay tuned! www.jdoqocy.com/gi104wktqks79899C8DFH799EFEBDA

[@douglasmundle5356]

I have a new asus l510ma with windows 11 and s mode and I need to get a program in the Google play app store and I can't get it it keeps telling me to download Google play then it tells me to download again or this program can not be downloaded what do I need to do

[@user-dp9en7ir1y]

My previous lap tap broke, so I needed a new a laptop. I quickly ordered a Dell from my cell phone and didn't know it came with S mode. Since then, I've been living with it. There have been apps I wanted but couldn't get them. It was disappointing. Hearing stories like yours about malware on S-mode makes me reconsider not keeping it. My computer performance is good, however I used to like running virus scans which I can't do anymore. Having S Mode does feel like computer jail at times.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

It's always a trade off 🤷‍♂️

[@markpickar3279]

To add context, I have been a heavy user of computers for almost 50 years. Recently I bought a little budget laptop to use when I travel about, and do little everyday things. I have found S mode to be fine for these activities, and it does seem to be performing faster and have better battery life than I would have expected. It boots faster than any computer I have ever worked with. Your concerns at the end about an inability to use 3rd party software for virus protection I also found to be important. However, I just checked the MS Store and found both McAfee and Norton offered there. Am I missing something important about this?

[@hermanwooster8944]

Every antivirus program runs differently. Some do a better job at detecting while others do a better job at cleaning up. When dealing with a bad infection, it's important to have the total toolset available.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Not at all. If the programs you want are available, you're good to go. But just because they are available in the Store doesn't mean they are "the best", just that they have been tested and certified to be clean 👍

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Agreed!

[@IoanIuliKevin]

you have your pc only to have antivirus??if that is the case ..why you have it from the first place..to have pc is mouch more then installing antivirus..it is you hole life stuck in there....i think you limit your answer....

[@karissathom]

Windows 11 new laptop. Will not let me get out of s mode. Keeps saying try again later??? Please help.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

start here: answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/all/cant-switch-out-of-s-mode/a4637f8c-1984-4e58-be82-03f5b70dc274

[@billbaggins5732]

Great Video Scott. After checking my PC it is not running in S mode. My problem though is that I can't install or uninstall applications. I can't even run admin permission. When trying to run an app a window pops up saying do you want to allow this software to run? But it blacks out the Yes prompt and only gives me the No prompt. Also, going in CMD trying to enable Admin permission, it says Access Denied. Any suggestions?

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Sounds like you are using a standard user account. Are you not getting prompted at all to use the administrator login when trying to do these things? If you were able to before and now can't, that could be Windows profile corruption. I would create a brand new administrator account and test that out to see if the problem goes away

[@billbaggins5732]

No I haven't. Thanks, I will have to look that up on how to @@AskYourComputerGuy

[@billbaggins5732]

I tried that, it won't even let me create a new user. @@AskYourComputerGuy

[@NTJedi]

@@billbaggins5732 You need to log onto the computer using an account which is an Administrator for creating new user accounts. Your computer should have at least one account which is part of the Administrator Group. You will need to know the name and password of this account to login.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Sounds like you have a corrupted Windows. Unfortunately, you might have to reinstall Windows (or at minimum a system reset) to get control of it again 🥲

[@DaffyDaffyDaffy33322]

9:43 S-mode doesn't prevent you from downloading files, and unfortunately windows defender doesn't flag most PUPs as malware, so they wouldn't have been caught on download. S-mode however did prevent them from being executed. They're all just sitting dormant in the downloads folder. I agree with everything you've said about S-mode, but I thought that part needed a bit of clarification, that that isn't an example of something bypassing S-mode, it did it's (admittedly poor) job correctly. And about the slowdown, it's very possible the reboot itself did it. Most laptops in S-mode are on budget systems with 4gb of ram. Windows itself takes up around 3gb of ram just to exist. The moment you do anything, open edge, etc, it'll very easily go past that 4gb limit and a lot of core windows features will go into the page file on disk (which is probably a fancy SD card, given the budget systems that run S-mode), leading to sluggishness. This is reset on a reboot though.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Good follow up tips, thank you!

[@oldtimehockeyfan2275]

Thank you, great video! I'm getting ready to get out of S mode. I couldn't install tax software which was a royal pain. And I can't use Draft Kings sports book because I can't install location app.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Excellent! Glad it helped!

[@DJaquithFL]

For the average person Windows S Mode (Security Mode) is a good thing and not so much for them but from other malware apps taking control and causing serious problems. Microsoft's Edge is still based on Chrome (Chromium) so for most people it's fine. Obviously people like you or me S Mode would be a no-go. Back in the day I remember Apple used to have a similar simplified and more quasi lockeddown UI. However, the malware, Trojans and viruses were nothing like what they are today. The fact that the malware wasn't actually installed is a big plus. I've had Norton miss a JavaScript from a legitimate site with a banner ad that had an embedded virus that I had to go through the registry and manually delete because it couldn't do it. I'm pretty confident that S mode would have stopped something like that, the changes were made to the registry changing how an EXE file would open. So you can imagine having to run REGEDIT which is obviously an executable.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Very well said 💪👍

[@paulahavens2764]

If you go out of s mode do you loose any data. Also does it stay in windows 11 or go back to 10.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

No data loss. Version doesn't change :)

[@simonjohansson248]

I just got a new computer with S Mode enabled. I'm in college and in order to access the schools student Wifi we need to install a program that S mode restricts me from. Without it I have to use the schools public Wifi (which does require you to sign up with email, but I'm generally bit unsure about publics). Is the S mode reliable to use with the public wifi?

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

If it's a wifi you trust (such as your home, friend's, school, etc), yes 👍

[@simonjohansson248]

@@AskYourComputerGuythanks!

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

@simonjohansson248 you bet 👍

[@ernier9033]

Hi Scott, I didn't know about this. As a matter of principle I don't want anything that limits the use of something I own. I just bought a new laptop and one of the first things I did was to create a Command Prompt shortcut on the desktop, so I guess I'm OK. If that hadn't been possible I would have returned my laptop for a refund🕊

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

👍

[@PitchWheel]

This concept that you maximize security by reducing available actions that the user can do, unfortunately, is not only on s-mode. Even normal windows continues to reduce freedom of usage, I've thing that i hate for example is not being able to move the task bar, for absolutely no reason. This is even further irritating when you discover that what you are imposed to do to become more "secure", makes actually things more difficult and dangerous. I don't know where Microsoft wants to go, but i think that users are pretty tired.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Agreed 👍

[@philipgr100]

If I purchase a new PC and it has Windows pre-installed, S mode will be the first thing I will remove followed by all the spy and report back to home stuff. I am the only one who decides how I use my computer and what I install on it, not Microsoft.

[@SeanPat1001]

Having a user without supervisor privileges for surfing is one idea. How does S-mode interact with VPN?

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Unless it's a VPN available in the Microsoft store...it doesn't 🤷‍♂️

[@SeanPat1001]

@@AskYourComputerGuy Thanks.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

@SeanPat1001 👍

[@SeemoreDunkan]

I have win 11 Home Edition but there’s no S Mode in the Activation menu. Did they already remove it? 😢

[@shaunzhang733]

The current computer I am using was Windows 10 in S mode when I bought it. I didn't know that it was in S mode until I set up the computer with my Microsoft Account. However, I did get myself out of S mode after I discovered that I was in S mode. It is incredible that sometimes, the manufacturer's website does not say whether the operating system is in S mode or not, like sometimes even when an operating system is in S mode, the phrase, 'S mode' does not appear in the operating system specification.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Agreed

[@chrisward8356]

I was hoping to be convinced to stay in s mode it's really starting to annoy me. Plus you don't have remote access on home addition. Good vlog very well explained. I'm a cabable user.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

It has its benefits, but I think everyone should know their options 👍

[@leannerathmell1863]

I want the secruity of S mode but getting frustrated that I can't download any apps even the ones in the Microsoft store

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Unfortunately, that's the trade off. Microsoft could really improve S-mode by simply making more apps available in their store. Why they don't, no idea. So it's a risk you take

[@patriciamonger5858]

My problem is that I have to use ProctorU with Guardian browser but S mode won’t allow it. S Mode also does not allow Zoom to be installed and I need that as well. If I disable S mode, it won’t be a big deal?

[@catherinem2215]

Thanks for this! Had an old netbook with S mode on - would like to use it again but need to use Chrome for work stuff. Have disabled S mode.

[@germainedubois8526]

Never knew it existed- I’m learning a lot about the world if Microsoft- and my thoughts I rather have control of my computer than someone else!!

[@missrose8024]

I want to play an old CD Rom game and it wont let me install from a CD in S mode. I want the security and what not but i want to be able to use CDs. Is there a way to bypass the S mode block in this instance?

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Only exception is if the game is available in the MS store. Otherwise, you have to switch out of S mode to play it.

[@johncunningham4820]

I 'd never heard of this . But then , I 've never had a problem with Downloads either . Yes , I run Defender AND Malware Bytes , both . Thanks for the Heads-Up . Futureproofing so to speak .

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

You're welcome! A lot of people haven't heard of it, hence the PSA video 👍

[@jnicoulakos]

This is why I make sure that I know what version I have on the system before I buy.

[@danwt8565]

I can't do the activation way, it says try again. And i don't know how to get to Microsoft.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Google "Microsoft reset S-mode". Should take you to the right page you need. Login with your Microsoft account, install plugin and remove S-mode

[@danwt8565]

@@AskYourComputerGuy how fo I install a plugin?

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

@danwt8565 when you get to the store, you should be able to click download or run. Here's Microsoft's instructions: support

[@danwt8565]

@AskYourComputerGuy okay I will try it thank you, and update you.

[@danwt8565]

@AskYourComputerGuy When I try to click open on the Microsoft store it doesn't work. For me to run the app in the library.

[@EllisBurton-uq1ms]

Have just gone around and around the mulberry bush of trying to download Apache OpenSource Office....only to discover that its on the computer, but non accessible because of S mode. I don't want to pay a subscription to Microsoft for Office, it I can help it...... I would also be interested to know if I disable the S mode will the McAfee preinstalled security still be ok for my needs...I guess I could just forget about it and go with Google docs.....but how is the average person supposed to know....I am a bit more tech savy than the average 50yr old by by no means an expert.

[@CliffordLeyba-n2s]

It really don't matter if you run escort or not because once you found those files bypass the defender it was already compromised so whatever you were trying to do is already a good security and everything

[@pineappleroad]

For anyone wanting to do a clean install after disabling S mode, just be aware that it is not safe to immidiatly proceed with the reinstall after it has been disabled in settings, as from what i know, S mode will only get permenently disabled after the computer has had 2 reboots, with at least 5-10 min between them (as athough the windows installation will be immidiatly switched out of S mode, the UEFI flag to enable S mode won't get overriden until the computer has had chance to write the off switch for S mode to the UEFI)

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Thanks. Didn't know that

[@ethimself5064]

Question - I lost my 10 notifications to various web sites - Although the rest work. I have checked all settings all around. Is there settings in cmd etc to try and repair this? Thanks

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Not 100% what you mean by "lost 10 notifications to various websites". Can you clarify?

[@ethimself5064]

@@AskYourComputerGuy I have not been receiving Notifications in 10 pro for websites that I allow to do so via windows and chrome setting which I have verified OK. My regular windows notifications do work, although some not work with sounds

[@ethimself5064]

@@LazloNQ Windows 10 notifications set up correct and especially in KZbin I don't get my notifications as my KZbin is set up for receiving them. As in I get most but far from all' Just like you get your notification in here.

[@spotlightonthestars]

I recently got given a laptop for my Birthday, it’s in S mode and I was wondering which would be better for going to university, turning it off or keeping it on?

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Great question! S-mode is designed to protect you from accidently infecting your PC through malware or malicious software. If everything you need for school can be found in the Microsoft store, then I would leave it enabled. You don't need a malware attack the day before a final paper is due. Hope this answers your question

[@RubixCubed3]

S mode is one of the main reasons why I left windows for Linux. I’ve been slowly moving more and more towards Linux for a few years now and s mode was the straw that broke the camel’s back.

[@jeangeroldyturel4371]

I get my answers feom your video Thank you!!!

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

I appreciate that! 👍

[@joebeamer3182]

Where does Driver Max store your backup to, I can't seem to find it?

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Not sure of the default location, My Drivers under Documents, I think. You can always go through the process again and see where it defaults to

[@hermanwooster8944]

This sounds like the worst of both words: Windows exposed to viruses but with an extra layer making scanning difficult, but perhaps there is a silver lining. Perhaps this individual's infection at 9:44 only partially deployed and that's why the only symptom was a "sluggish" start up. I would love to see Microsoft work on making one variant of Windows more secured and modern with less legacy support.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Agreed. My thoughts exactly 👍

[@NTJedi]

Ideally Microsoft should be creating a larger variety of operating systems which match how users wish to use their computers. Removing unnecessary components means less options for hackers and computer viruses.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

@NTJedi excellent point! 👍

[@minwai888]

I just bought a new windows 11 home edition followed the instruction and kept showing me " try again " message and wound not allowed me to switch out, WHY?

[@apsurden]

Another pitfall to watch out for. For some users who don't know much about what they are doing, it might be an ideal solution, but for users who have the necessary knowledge to work with their computers - it would be a disaster. I certainly won't agree to not being allowed to do customizations and settings on my own computer that I bought with my own money!

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Agreed

[@deborahcavanaugh1800]

I would like Google photos on my lap top. Am I able to do that in s mode?

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

If Google is in the Microsoft store, yes. If not, you can still access your Google account page on the web and access it there.

[@pauljordan5892]

My view on "S" Mode? Same as Chromebooks! I've been a computer user for many years. I started with Commodore 64, the TRS-80, an old AT&T, then my first 386 with that wonderful color screen. I ran BBS systems on all these computers, loved FIDONet, played with virus creation and control, then upped the BBS game, beta testing BBS software for a creator. Basic, Cobal, Fortran, Flow Charts, Key Punch Cards, then the jump to better and more involved languages... Basically, I was on the "Internet" before AlGore created it! ;-) Obviously, that's a long set outlook that wouldn't exist with stuff like "S Mode"! This being said, I don't need or want Microsoft playing with and controlling it all. If Apple/Macintosh had way more extensive content...??? Thank God for Open-Source developers and folks like you telling it all! Thanks!

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Very well said!

[@geosystemstechnology3497]

So, disabling S mode requires a connection to the Windows Store?

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Correct.

[@cra.cra._paityn]

i am a bit young to understand alot being talked abt here (im 12) but will i get viruses on my computer more easily out of s mode? bc i really cant install much enjoy able apps with it but i dont wanna harm my computer.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

S-mode was designed by Microsoft to be a more streamlined and safer version of windows for most novice users. Like with most things, there is a trade-off. If you wanna play games that you can’t get from the Microsoft store, you won’t be able to do it in S mode. But your machine will likely stay virus free. In normal mode, you can play your games, but you run the risk of getting a virus. So it’s entirely up to the end user as to what they feel comfortable with.

[@terrytari1891]

Thanks Guy!

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

You bet!

[@coshvjicujmlqef6047]

They should just integrate S mode and P mode together instead of providing a seperate version. Let users to login the computer with the S/P mode switch. And making S mode more touch friendly.

[@RoszettaThomas-eq8hp]

Thank you for this video

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

My pleasure! Hope it was helpful!

[@makeminefreedom]

So much for Sucker mode. Microsoft can't get enough people to use the Edge ad serving browser that they have found a way to force the average user to use it.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Exactly my thoughts 🥲

[@tamarapeterson1844]

My hp laptop will not let me move out of s mode. I bought it new off Amazon. It is darker pink...think like 1910's pink. I really do not worry about it, I only use it for ordering groceries, banking, etc a few times a week. When we tried, the "blue get button" was greyed out. Windows 10

[@garylee3433]

Thank you so much!

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

You're welcome! 👍

[@kirstywhiley3975]

I am glad I found your video a my Samsung galaxy book go, has s mode switched on. I'm trying to download sims 4 and ea. app but it isn't letting me. my dad wants to put his own Avast security antivirus software on my laptop, would he be able to with S mode switched on please? I want to turn it off and have full control as I had a google Chromebook and was so restricted of what apps I could use didn't like it at all.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

You can install any app in the Microsoft store with S-mode enabled. Naturally that limits your software choices