I've got a new HP all-in-one desktop running Windows 11 in S mode, and I really need to switch out of it to run some work programs. I've tried a few different solutions, but nothing has worked so far. I'm currently installing version 25H2 as a repair option. When I try to switch out of S mode via the settings, the Microsoft Store just crashes. Even searching for "switch out of S mode" in the Store only brings up unrelated apps like Microsoft PC Manager. I can follow directions, but many guides I found don't match what I see on my screen. If anyone has a reliable method to disable S mode, I would greatly appreciate it!
3 Answers
You might have better luck with a clean install of Windows Pro using a USB with installation media. I think it could be a cleaner way to go about it, especially if you're struggling with switching out of S mode. Let me know if you want more details on how to do this!
If you need the installation media, you can get it from the official Microsoft website; just follow their prompts.
You can check out this guide from Microsoft on how to switch out of S mode: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/switching-out-of-s-mode-in-windows-4f56d9be-99ec-6983-119f-031bfb28a307. Just make sure you have admin access! Sometimes, it asks for a license key, depending on whether you're switching to Home or Pro versions.
I tried doing it from the Microsoft Store as well, but it didn't work for me either.
Yeah, I ran into the same issue; it just crashed on me.
If you're having trouble with the Store, check out this YouTube video that explains how to disable S mode without needing a Microsoft account. It's a bit tricky since you have to edit the registry, but the video should guide you through it, including accessing recovery mode to make those changes. Just remember that working around certain features when in S mode can be a hassle due to restrictions.
Honestly, I have no experience with clean installs. How do I get started?