What is Windows 11 in S mode? | Deep Dive

S mode? What is S mode? Check out our deep dive into Windows 11 in S mode and why it might be a good option for you!
Don't forget to subscribe and be notified for the latest devices, content, and live streams from Microsoft ExpertZone UKI
Like us on Facebook: / expertzoneuk or ExpertZoneIreland - Follow us on Instagram: / expertzoneuki

[@clearanceflipz]

For online Reseller’s S mode restricts us from getting Google Chrome which most of our extensions plug-in to Google Chrome. I would’ve loved to have kept S mode, but it just didn’t work with what I needed.

[@enihil7713]

You do realize edge can run chrome extensions right?

[@garlicgirl3149]

@@enihil7713 I asked that of companies I deal with, and they still said "NO!" to edge despite the extensions.

[@clarapark3486]

Edge runs weird in our profession as well. We are using Firefox and Chrome because of the program that we need to use. Microsoft doesn't seem to understand this is not how people work.

[@PanosKir]

Google can just add chrome with a compatible installer. Windows 11s is blazing fast

[@dm5129]

Got a new computer and was surprised by how limiting S mode is. Just taking choices from consumers away as far as I am concerned. Tried to work with it for a while but it is way too restrictive. It is like taking all the fun away from the consumer.

[@robertlucas9867]

Thank you for the information but I unfortunately have to disable it for a handful of programs. Anything to do with recording music is not in the store and “S” mode will not allow it to download. As of December 2022 that is Presonus software like Studio One 6( except Finale is in App Store), Pro Tools not supported, Cubase not supported, Line 6 software for guitars, etc that are heavily used in recording studios. Windows is still behind in offering security in those in S mode. But helpful video.

[@repoocnailuj]

You didn’t mention that once you switch S mode off, you can’t turn it back on again. Ever.

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

Hey Julian! You'll see that we did mention that if you want to go back to S mode, the only way to do so is to reset your device. So, you can technically go back to S mode, but it means starting fresh with your device.

[@nuhaayesh1778]

😅

[@nuhaayesh1778]

You could just load everything on a external storage device and do that

[@teedrap.madera4232]

So I switched out of s mode before I seen this video 😅, can I still search and buy from the internet or should I get a anti-virus

[@Liselle1100]

I have hit the ‘Get out of S Mode’ button several times and nothing’s happening. It doesn’t download at all. S Mode is a nightmare concept that I do not want and I have wasted far too much time, now, trying to opt out of it and I do not know what to do … 😵‍💫🤯

[@FearNomanonGod0411]

You just earned a subscriber, my friend. I was running myself bonkers trying to figure this out. Big time thank you.

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

Glad we could help, and you found what you were looking for with this video, thank you for joining us as a subscriber.

[@JP-ut6gd]

It doesnt allow me to play games on cloud gaming while being in S mode anymore

[@winsomelosesomeitscalledga209]

Thanks so much. I watched many videos and yours was the one that allowed me to get my daughters Christmas gift to be able to be used! So happy

[@GKSchattenjaeger]

Didn't even know this existed. I have Windows 11 Pro installed and it was never in S mode. Good to know thou.

[@bigduke2140]

Remember it is all about you. Not about Windows S mode. All just you and how great you are.

[@djoffawestwest1103]

I can’t download Xbox on the Microsoft store it say is not working because the s modus is on what to do !!!!!!! At first I did download but after I could not download a game because of the file so I deleted it when I wanted to reinstall I did not work HELP PLEAS THANK YOU ❤️

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

Hi! Hmm... that's strange. If you're having problems with the Xbox app from the Microsoft Store whilst in S mode, your best bet is to contact Microsoft support. What we will say is that if you have a powerful system for playing games, you likely don't need S mode - as S mode is designed to maintain performance and protection on lower performance devices.

[@jasminemay9591]

Hi, I just got my new laptop and want to run sims 4 but obviously need to turn off s mode to do so for ea play windows. My only concern is if I do turn it off will the security on my laptop be worse? I'm worried I'll get a virus or something if I turn it off.

[@enihil7713]

You’ll be fine, just don’t go on sketchy sites

[@rockytoprecordingreviews4167]

Fantastic video with excellent information! Thanks for this. Definitely makes shopping for a newer budget laptop easier

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

we are glad you found this helpful on your journey to a new device.

[@coshvjicujmlqef6047]

Still you guys are not explaining why it is not account wide. You can absolutely put an option at the login screen "child mode" to switch between normal mode and S mode. This can be very useful if i just want to browse internet for some reason. You cannot just block people for doing normal things. First it is a slippery slope. Second, things like drivers cannot be installed and if someone breaks its computer, no one can just easily go fixing it. Why not just make this S mode better instead of crappy bullshit like this it is?

[@holtbicit9581]

i have a question i dont wanna switch out of safe mode but i cant download steam or discord because of it would you recommend disabling it i wanna be sure i dont do something wrong but i wanna run my games on steam and chat on discord

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

Hi there - this choice is completely personal and not something we would be in a position to advise on! It's all down to how you want to use your device and what you would like to use it for.

[@myloberry-nc6xy]

i cant turn off the s mode while i dl it on microsoft app it says error occured and there is no solution

[@Antics253]

As of 9/7/23, I officially have a hatred for S-mode. Its never been an issue on fresh installs, but as of a certain build, it seems attempting to run cmd alone is blocked, and in order to open it, I'm instructed to open the Store and run updates. Run the updates, reboot, system reenters OOBE, and I'm prompted to rinse/cycle/repeat. I'm trying to set up a laptop for an elderly lady that needs a specific software to commit changes at a federal level; nothing fancy, no Cloud accounts, no VPNs, just a basic laptop with access to install said software and now I'm battling DISM to try to work around converting S-mode to a full install. No one wants the forced cloud or security models, and seeing as MSFT wants to force Win11 upgrades from Win10, it should be a simple transition like 98->XP or Vista->7 was. The software in question also supports Debian, so I'm tempted to load Ubuntu on this new-in-box laptop and ditch Windows on it in full since its become nothing but a hassle.

[@flightofapaullo72]

I just want to transfer files from my phone, burn a cd from time to time, watch a movie here and there, and be able to have alienware's music player. Will this laptop be able to do these tasks?

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

As Alienware's Music Player is not available in the Microsoft Store, you wouldn't be able to use this on a Windows 11 in S Mode device unfortunately! Only applications in the Store can be downloaded on to these devices.

[@Peter-wl3tm]

Hey, does it protect from virus when it comes to be online?

[@aneesfathima9135]

Hello, I can not see any option about S mode in my activation settings. I can not download Microsoft apps for free. Please help me

[@Nanok555]

Hey so I wanted to download steam on my laptop as I'm planing on using it for school and a bit of gaming should I disable s mode or no? Also is there any security apps I can download if I do switch out?

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

Hi! The Steam client isn't available inside the Microsoft Store so you'll need to switch out of S mode for that. Regarding security, Windows 11 and Windows 10 already has Windows Security preinstalled as standard, whether you're in S mode or not. It's actually one of the highest rated security apps there is! So, you should be good to go, but if you do want to use an alternative, some security apps are available within the store, whereas others can only be downloaded outside it, so you may or may not need to switch out. Hope that helps!

[@vyger6336]

tried to download Kaspersky to my new laptop with win 11 and it won't unless I disable S mode ...GREAT!!!!

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

As Kaspersky isn't an application available in the Windows Store, and S Mode doesn't allow downloads from the web, you would have to make the switch out of S Mode to be able to use this!

[@FusionPatriot]

for some reason, the s mode features are activated, but in my activation settings, it doesn't say i have it.

[@ticktockbam]

Then it's not actually activated lol

[@muhammadlafa6160]

Hi, are you sure this works with windows 11, your video shoes windows 10 on the screen?

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

Hey! Yes we can confirm it works with Windows 11. Some devices come preinstalled with Windows 11 Home in S Mode by the original equipment manufacturer. :)

[@gurugamer8632]

Hi there, what are the pros to go for the surface pro 8 (highest spec) compared to apple MacBook Air M2 base model?

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

Hi! This is a difficult one as we are inevitably a bit biased seeing as our channel literally has Microsoft in the title... So we can't really tell you much about the Air M2, but we can tell you a lot about the Pro 8! The Surface Pro 8 is easily the most versatile device in the Surface family. It's thin and light, can be used as a tablet when you want to, and if you're going for highest spec has all the performance you need for when you're travelling or on the go. It's a personal favourite of the person writing this comment 😉 It's also got a gorgeous display with of course a touch screen for easy navigation. It's a very small summary, but it's great! Sorry we can't help you much with the Mac part of that question, but I hope this helps a little bit towards your decision making 🙂

[@AHEUTUBE]

the explanation is good. but the disco music is so distracting and at times hurtful to eardrums with the loud boom-boom. we came here for knowledge; not to dance. i hope it improves next time

[@TezsArt]

Very helpful video. Just what I needed. Thanks.

[@myusrn]

If you are repaving systems for friends and family how do you install windows 11 s mode vs the home, pro, enterprise skus?

[@anthonynewton8989]

Hi, I've got a new laptop with Windows 11, with S mode it won't allow me to use Light rooms Classic. Do I need to turn S mode to use it

[@定义]

Use Hyper-V, i guess?

[@jessicanevarez9216]

I need to do an exam for school that requires respondus lockdown and I have to switch off s mode to download it. Will my computer be slow after I switch? I just bought this computer

[@musichub9209]

This is helpful now i can download any games i want for free ☺️☺️☺️

[@maryaboyd2667]

Thank you so much for breaking down S Mode for us. I am just learning about computers.

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

Please let us know if you have any more questions!

[@do8747]

How can I install Windows 11 home in s mode???? I have currently Windows 11 Home activated.

[@定义]

You cant, but you can fresh clean windows and set option to download apps only from microsoft store

[@Rick_Smooth]

Hello, I'm currently shopping for a Windows laptop, and noticed that there's alot of laptops out there that are in "S Mode." My question is, by disabling it, will it affect anything afterwards? I've heard some people say that it will never be as fast, or reach it's potential if it was a non S Mode device. Thanks in advance for your feedback!

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

Hi! So, Windows then finds it a lot easier to manage all your different apps from one location, plus it helps with security. The only reason you'd need to switch out of S mode is if you need to install anything outside of the Microsoft Store. With that said, the vast majority of S mode devices are what we consider to be either entry level or mid-range (up to £550, give or take). So, it really depends on what you are planning to install on the device. The more power the app requires, the larger the performance hit will be. It's really as simple as that 🙂 General rule, if you don't need to switch out, then S mode is a win win 🙂

[@Rick_Smooth]

@@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI Makes sense! It's for my daughter that needs to do high school work, I guess an "average user." Thanks for the reply! Have a good day.

[@victorpolanco9251]

Can you get back into S mode if you want to ?

[@nuhaayesh1778]

U can, but only if you reset your computer (initialize)

[@coshvjicujmlqef6047]

Still you guys are not explaining why it is not account wide. You can absolutely put an option at the login screen "child mode" to switch between normal mode and S mode. This can be very useful if i just want to browse internet for some reason. You cannot just block people for doing normal things. First it is a slippery slope. Second, things like drivers cannot be installed and if someone breaks its computer, no one can just easily go fixing it. Why not just make this S mode better instead of crappy bullshit like this it is? Windows is not android, and not many people want to support apps in store at this point, you just give an excuse to kill windows.

[@Ritmal2004]

My windows 11 is in S mode and I want to download Adobe Acrobat Reader and is not working

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

Thank you for raising this - with Windows 11 in S mode, you can only download applications via the Microsoft Store and not from browser. If you can view and download through the app store but you are experiencing issues then please reach out to support.microsoft.com/en-gb for additional support.

[@danny29x]

I'm buying a new laptop soon, shopping around at the moment and was wondering can all laptops turn off s mode? Don't want to spend the money if I'm forced to use s mode. Thanks.

[@TC55555]

Mine will not disable!!!! Do not buy it!!!

[@danny29x]

@tomcat1319 🤣 thanks but a year has passed and I did disable it.

[@Antzdownunder]

Verry good, thank you for the information, just what I needed.

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

Thank you, we're so glad that you found it useful! 😀

[@Guts-blood]

They Made it imposible to get the s mode off in My device so i had to return it and erase it

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

That's a shame, we hope you found a more suitable replacement for your wants and needs!

[@coshvjicujmlqef6047]

it should be an account wide mode not system wide

[@CrustyAbsconder]

Can I access the Windows Subsystem for Linux 2 within "S Mode?"

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

Hi! It's a no on this one, as it would need to access system level tools that are restricted in S mode. As always though, you can switch out of S mode for free.

[@manpower3000]

You didn't say that if you choose to come out of S mode, you can't go back ...

[@maryaboyd2667]

You are Awesome ❤

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

This is very kind, thank you so much!

[@Nokikuji]

Is it possible to turn S mode back on if you have turned it off?

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

Hi! Once you've switched out, the only way to go back to S mode is to reset your device.

[@hannahgu3100]

@@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI Hi，if I need reset My laptop but I don't want to back to s mode what should I do? Or I should back to s mode first then out of s mode? Recently I purchased an Asus laptop, it is Windows11 s mode, I out of s mode to Windows 11 home, but I can't download languages pack for add another language, I tryed many way but can't fix it, the error code is 0x80072f8f, also, the Microsoft store can't download APP, is the same error code. so,I just think maybe I need reset laptop? Thanks.

[@darkstar92772]

I like Brave Browser but can’t use it in S mode.

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

You can only use apps downloadable from the Microsoft Store on Windows in S Mode!

[@darkstar92772]

@@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI Screw S mode. I got my Brave Browser.

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

@@darkstar92772 Each to their own, some people it works for, others have additional requirements which makes it unsuitable ☺

[@lenoreno7546]

but i cant install graphics driver tho

[@weedpot100]

Can't even use Google Chrome in s mode, what the heck

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

This is correct, as Google Chrome isn't available in the Microsoft Store you aren't able to download this to your S Mode device

[@coshvjicujmlqef6047]

1. Don't use google chrome. 2. The problem of S mode is that it is a system wide setting, not an account wide mode. If Microsoft really cares about security rather than monopoly, i do not see why they cannot. S mode as an option can be absolutely useful if i just surf the internet and watch videos and listen to music. However, a system wide S mode is NOT ok.

[@dm5129]

who thought about making this operating system so restrictive? It could serve for a child but an adult does not appreciate it.

[@bamboozle1801]

Why does it say disabling S mode is permanent?

[@LIVEMETRIX187]

bc it is permanent, but honestly it just holds back the ability to load exes lol, i couldn’t even install drivers for a label printer.

[@coshvjicujmlqef6047]

this dumbshit. it should be an account wide not system wide setting tbh

[@coshvjicujmlqef6047]

These comments just come from microsoft employees.

[@vanessabale1191]

You forgot to mention that once you come out of s mode you can't go back to it

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

Hey Vanessa! The only way to do so is to reset your device. So, you can technically go back to S mode, but it means starting fresh with your device.

[@sd1200hd]

Thanks, Great Vid. Im a Mac user running a MacBook Pro with an M1 chip. Just ordered a Lenovo Ideapad 1i from walmart for a 120.00 bucks. Let see what windows 11 can do on 4 GB of DDR4 ram.

[@pepethefrog50]

Wow, i’m guessing that was an awful experience.

[@CuteBenji]

Can you trun it back on?

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

Hi! Once you've switched out, the only way to go back to S mode is to reset your device.

[@andrewdupuis1151]

my Acer Aspire 3 A315-23-R9DX 15.6 i brought yes day windows 11 s mod I removed it

[@evanxplayzyt8461]

How come I can’t download roblox studio in s mode

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

Hi! Roblox itself is available on S mode through the Microsoft Store, however Roblox Studio requires an external download from your browser, so you'll need to switch out of S mode to do this - which is free and easy to do :)

[@定义]

Hyper-V

[@GunsAndAmmo3]

Surprising that other people had the same problem as me haha.

[@anandavnish1753]

"05:15 Windows 11 in S mode can be easily turned off with a few steps." I heard that this is one way shifting process If I purchased a device with windows 11 and Switch to S mode, all I need to do is reinstall clean windows via bootable Pen Drive. "(Am I right?)"

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

Hi there! Microsoft's official statement on Windows 11 in S Mode is that it is a one way process and once you switch out you are unable to switch this back on again. However, you are right saying that a factory reset and OS install from a USB recovery drive will take this back to full factory settings - though this is done completely at the owners own risk and is not completely guaranteed success!

[@JimmyB55]

Thank you. I hate things i cant break 😅

[@Jay-fj5ty]

Im very surprised cmd line doesnt work in S mode

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

Windows 11 S is a more secure version of Windows so some features Like CMD are not available. but you still have the option to swap out of Windows 11 S to access CMD.

[@sabrinawatson4913]

Help my Dell Inspiron isn't printing to my hp printer 🖨️ the techs from hp said it was my "print spooler" would you know how can I fix this situation?☹️

[@TC55555]

Buy a computer that Bill Gates will not run your life! No S mode!!!!!

[@chivo1978]

Hi, I’m a single father and don’t have the time neither I’m a gamer but I do like to play old pc games from the 2000, like Black Hawk Down, I want to buy me a affordable laptop that can play those old game, any suggestions?? Thanx!

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

Hi! Regarding S mode, for any titles downloaded outside the Microsoft Store, you'll need to switch out of S mode. As for older games in general, it's not a simple answer unfortunately. If a game is still supported and has been updated over time, you shouldn't have a problem. However, games from the early 2000s that stopped receiving support a long time ago likely won't run straight away on Windows 11, as they may rely on older systems that are no longer supported. There are potential ways to get older games running but it's indeed not a simple task, and not one that we have the knowledge to give unfortunately.

[@chivo1978]

@@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI Thank you so much!!!

[@ktc_Sander]

Salut je voudrais avoir google chrome comme navigateur principal puisque je suis habitué a ce dernier mais je peut pas a cause du mode s. Donc au final je pense le supprimer.

[@VN_HOANG]

Security mode

[@amedooudin4539]

Hi,can i install binance in windows s mode????thank you.

[@LT_Aegis]

Nope, need to disable it

[@定义]

Use Hyper-V

[@ozzayyyy]

​@@LT_Aegis looks like you can't install anything without S mode being off.😅

[@tristaleigh2485]

We just got a computer for Christmas and it's in S Mode all my daughter wants to do is play Roblox that's it that's all it's for and it won't work on the S Mode trying to figure out how if I'm supposed to take it off how do I switch it I definitely will watch this video to the end hopefully it helps some of my questions

[@thedarkslashs]

so no really need to switch out of S mode

[@Cart1416]

please add steam to the store

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

Unfortunately Steam is not yet compatible with the Windows in S Mode store!

[@sparklinrose71855]

Can I access iTunes with S mode?

[@sd1200hd]

Theres an iTunes app in the Microsoft store. Why not?

[@giulioguarnone5948]

does WSL2 run in W11S ?

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

No, this device uses Windows 11 Home Edition!

[@pammccarley156]

My HP printer-scanner app requires me to go out of S mode to download. What should I do??

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

Hi there! Couple solutions here. If you have a modern printer, you should be able to download the HP Smart app from the Microsoft Store - hook the printer up and away you go! Failing that, if you want to stay in S mode you can use the mobile app Office lens which is a great alternative for scanning in documents accurately with the camera on your phone. Hope that helps.

[@garlicgirl3149]

What if it won't allow you to get out of S Mode?

[@ozzayyyy]

Reset your device.

[@garlicgirl3149]

@@ozzayyyy I did the reset and it still did not work. 🤨

[@robbyrobby]

I'm sorry dude but the music in your video is too loud and distracting

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

Thank you for the feedback! We've made a few changes to our content over the last 2 years so hopefully you find our most recent videos more balanced 😄

[@steverandle7898]

Cant get malwarebytes.

[@techosarusrex]

I have a test VM with S Mode

[@emceepablo_3434]

But can’t you switch 😢S Mode on

[@borky1987]

Why would you want it turned on?

[@Milan5605]

Can you try performance s vs normal mode?

[@coshvjicujmlqef6047]

That is just a lie.

[@kylenhastings1356]

Omg thank you

[@johnhammett2362]

Yes this was helpful learned a lot thank you

[@Imnotalogoeditoranymore]

Hi I’m a new subscriber

[@dedoyxp]

May I know how the driver situation will be on Windows 11 in S Mode? Because we shouldn't be able to download it manually. I really want Windows 11 in S Mode became more popular, especially with Windows on ARM chip.

[@coshvjicujmlqef6047]

What should i do as a programmer?

[@Marty-je6eh]

Thank You. will subscribe and watch more and learn.

[@carmenmarquez-diaz2180]

Very helpful for me. Thanks!

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

Glad it helped! :)

[@nguoidungandanhgoogle12]

Thank you very much microsoft, mccosoft let me understand more about my IT knowledge and skills.

[@MyRandVids]

I would rather use Steam and GOG for gaming 😺😼

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

Everyone has their own preferences, no one is right or wrong in what they choose to use! 😄

[@Uns_Maps_8]

This is how an iPhone or iPad runs, s mode.

[@applyinggaming9529]

i need windows 11s, but it's hard to install it

[@JordanAdair-q6y]

loook at your outlets mate!! i'm in Austin Texas!!! 110's look diff round here partner lol jk

[@TC55555]

He is LYING!!!! IT WILL NOT TURN OFF!!!

[@iiskyvlogs]

"the majority wouldn't even notice" imagine microsoft store being the only source for downloads. the majority downloads from the internet you know.

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

Windows 11 in S mode is a great option for those users who use applications that are available to download from the Microsoft Store - this doesn't work for everyone, which is why there is the option to switch out of S Mode if desired.

[@winsomelosesomeitscalledga209]

Thanks so much. I watched many videos and yours was the one that allowed me to get my daughters Christmas gift to be able to be used! So happy

[@MicrosoftExpertZoneUKI]

Glad we could help!