I can not switch out of S mode

Question

Hi, I am trying to turn off S mode. However, every time I try it tells me to "try again" and under it says "Something happened and we couldn't start the upgrade" I have tried everything that I cant think of, like making sure the computer is all updated, turning off and back on, checking the time zone. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated as right now I cant use this new computer for what I bought it for..

Thanks,

[Moderator note: personal info removed]

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Moved from Microsoft Security | Microsoft Identity Manager

Answer 1

Hi @Megan Beavers

Thank you for posting your question in the Microsoft Q&A forum.    

Regarding your issue, switching out of S mode relies entirely on the Microsoft Store activation service. When the Store cache, sign‑in state, or required services aren’t responding correctly, the Store shows that generic error instead of completing the switch. 

Here are a few steps you can try: 

1. Reset the Microsoft Store Cache 

• Press the Windows Key + R on your keyboard. 
• Type wsreset.exe and hit Enter. 
• A blank black window will pop up. Don't close it. It will automatically close itself and reopen the Store once the reset is finished.
• Try the switch again immediately after. 

2. Check the "Windows Update" Service 

• Type Services in your search bar and open the app. 
• Scroll down to find Windows Update. 
• Right-click it and select Restart. (If it’s stopped, click Start). 
• Do the same for the Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS). 

3. Clear "SoftwareDistribution" Folder 

• Search for Command Prompt, right-click it, and Run as Administrator. 
• Type net stop wuauserv and hit Enter. 
• Type net stop bits and hit Enter. 
• Open File Explorer and go to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution. Delete everything inside this folder.
• Go back to the Command Prompt and type net start wuauserv then net start bits 

Hopefully it will help work with your issue and if you have any other questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask.  

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Answer 2

To switch out of S mode, you typically need to follow these steps:

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Activation.
2. Under Switch to Windows 10 Home or Switch to Windows 10 Pro, select Go to the Store.
3. In the Microsoft Store, find the option to switch out of S mode and select Get.

If you are encountering the error "Something happened and we couldn't start the upgrade," here are a few troubleshooting steps you can try:

• Check Internet Connection: Ensure your device is connected to the internet.
• Windows Updates: Make sure your Windows is fully updated. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and check for updates.
• Time and Date Settings: Confirm that your time zone and date settings are correct.
• Restart Your Device: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve issues.
• Run Windows Troubleshooter: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot and run the troubleshooter for Windows Store Apps.

If the issue persists, you may consider resetting your PC or contacting Microsoft support for further assistance.

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References:

• Windows device settings to upgrade editions or enable S mode in Intune
• Upgrade Windows editions or switch out of S mode on devices using Microsoft Intune