Unable to Download Applications on computer/ S Mode

If you are unable to download software or applications on your computer, outside of the app store, its possible your computer is in S mode. 

S mode is a feature that some Windows 10 and Windows 11 computers have to increase security and performance. Computers in S mode are unable to download or run software or applications from anywhere that is not the Microsoft Store. If you want to download applications/software from outside of the Microsoft store you will need to permanently switch out of S mode. Its free to do but once you switch out you cannot switch back to S mode. If you're using a device managed by your employer or another organization, you may need to contact your administrator to switch out of S mode. 

 

Switching out of S mode on Windows 10:

Open Settings > Update & Security > Activation.

Find the Switch to Windows 10 Home or Switch to Windows 10 Pro section, then select the Go to the Store link.

On the following page, select the Get button. After this, you will be able to download apps and software from places other than the Microsoft Store

 

Switching out of S mode on Windows 11:

Open Settings > System > Activation.

Find the Switch to Windows 11 Pro section, then select the Go to the Store link.

On the following page, select the Get button. After this, you will be able to download apps and software from places other than the Microsoft Store

 

For additional details, follow the link below:

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/windows-10-and-windows-11-in-s-mode-faq-851057d6-1ee9-b9e5-c30b-93baebeebc85#WindowsVersion=Windows_11

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