Common questions about Windows 11 SE

Windows 11 SE is a new cloud-first operating system that offers the power and reliability of Windows 11 with a simplified design and tools specially designed for schools. To learn more, see Windows 11 SE Overview.

Windows 11 SE is designed for students in grades K-8 who use a laptop provided by their school, in a 1:1 scenario.

Windows 11 SE was created based on feedback from educators who wanted a distraction-free experience for their students. Here are some of the differences that you'll find in Windows 11 SE:

• Experience a simplified user interface so you can stay focused on the important stuff
• Only IT admins can install apps. Users will not be able to access the Microsoft Store or download apps from the internet
• Use Snap Assist to maximize screen space on smaller screens with two-window snapping
• Store your Desktop, Documents, and Photos folders in the cloud using OneDrive, so your work is backed up and easy to find
• Express yourself and celebrate accomplishments with the emoji and GIF panel and Stickers

Windows 11 SE is only available on devices that are built for education. To learn more, see Windows 11 SE Overview.

No, Secure Boot prevents Windows SE devices from booting via PXE. As a workaround, you can use a UEFI bootable USB device to boot the device.

You can use Microsoft Intune to install applications on Windows 11 SE. For more information, see Configure applications with Microsoft Intune.

Windows 11 SE supports all web applications and a curated list of desktop applications. You can prepare and add a desktop app to Microsoft Intune as a Win32 app from the approved app list, then distribute it. For more information, see Considerations for Windows 11 SE.

IT Admins can manage system settings (including application installation and the application store) to ensure all students have a safe, distraction-free experience. On Windows SE devices, you have pre-installed apps from Microsoft, from your IT admin, and from your device manufacturer. You can continue to use web apps on the Microsoft Edge browser, as web apps do not require installation. For more information, see Configure applications with Microsoft Intune.

This error means that the app you are trying to install is not supported on Windows 11 SE. If you have an app that fails with this error, then:

• Make sure the app is on the available applications list. Or, make sure your app is approved for Windows 11 SE
• If the app is approved, then it's possible the app is not packaged correctly. For more information, Configure applications with Microsoft Intune
• If the app isn't approved, then it won't run on Windows 11 SE. To get apps approved, see Add your own applications. Or, use an app that runs in a web browser, such as a web app or PWA

To access the Settings application during OOBE on a Windows 11 SE device, press Shift+F10, then select the accessibility icon on the bottom-right corner of the screen. From the Settings application, you can troubleshoot the OOBE process and, optionally, trigger a device reset.