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"S" mode must go

donald marinelli 0 Reputation points
2026-03-09T09:58:33.37+00:00

how do i get rid of "S" mode once and for all. It is an very upsetting and it implies that MS still owns the computer.

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Settings
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  1. John DeV 161.2K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-03-09T10:50:56.85+00:00

    Hi, good day!

    Have you tried the suggested AI methods?


    Please try the following methods below.

    • If you have a third-party VPN or Antivirus installed, please try to temporarily uninstall it then check if the issue persists.
    • Please try changing your Region to United States if it helps.
    • Make sure your account is not connected to school/work.
    • Please check if your date and time are set correctly.
    • Please try to connect on another network such as your phone's mobile hotspot.

    If the issue persists, open Settings > System > Recovery.

    Few things to check on the PC

    • Unplug all external peripherals except for the Mouse, Keyboard, and LAN cable before starting
    • Disable or uninstall any third-party Antivirus program to prevent it from interfering with the upgrade

    Under Fix problems using Windows Update, click Reinstall Now

    Once completed, your system will restart.

    I look forward to receiving your update and I'm willing to collaborate with you till we resolve the issue. Do keep me informed by clicking "Add comment" below.

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  2. Q&A Assist
    2026-03-09T09:58:46.9633333+00:00
    AI generated content. This question contains an answer created with AI from Q&A Assist. Learn more

    To get rid of S mode permanently, switch out of S mode in Windows. This is a one-way change and cannot be undone, but there is no cost.

    For Windows 11 in S mode:

    1. Open Settings > System > Activation.
    2. Under Switch to Windows 11 Pro (or similar), select the Go to the Store link.
      • Do not select the link under Upgrade your edition of Windows, as that keeps the device in S mode.
    3. In the Microsoft Store page that opens (Switch out of S mode or similar), select Get and confirm.
    4. After confirmation, apps from outside Microsoft Store can be installed and S mode is removed permanently.

    For Windows 10 in S mode:

    1. Open Settings > Update & Security > Activation.
    2. Under Switch to Windows 10 Home or Switch to Windows 10 Pro, select the Go to the Store link.
      • Again, do not use the Upgrade your edition of Windows link.
    3. In the Microsoft Store page (Switch out of S mode or similar), select Get and confirm.

    Alternatively, on both Windows 10 and 11 you can:

    1. Use the built-in link to open the Store directly to the switch page: Switch out of S Mode.
    2. Click Get, wait for the confirmation, then S mode will be disabled permanently.

    After switching out of S mode, the device runs the standard edition of Windows (Home/Pro, etc.), and S mode cannot be turned back on.


    References:

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