Windows 11 S Mode: A Guide to Secure and Fast Computing in 2023

Windows 11 S Mode: What It Is and Should You Use It?

Windows 11 is the latest operating system from Microsoft, and it comes with a lot of new features and improvements. However, not everyone may be able to enjoy all the benefits of Windows 11, especially if they have a device that runs in S mode. What is Windows 11 S mode, and should you use it? This blog post will answer these questions and help you decide whether S mode is right for you.

What Is Windows 11 S Mode?

Windows 11 S mode is a version of Windows 11 that is streamlined for security and performance while providing a familiar Windows experience. To increase security, it allows only apps from the Microsoft Store and requires Microsoft Edge for safe browsing. It also limits some customization options and hardware compatibility.

Windows 11 S mode is only available in the Windows 11 Home edition. If you have the Pro, Enterprise, or Education editions of Windows 10 in S mode, you must switch out of S mode to upgrade to Windows 11. Switching out of S mode is one-way, meaning you cannot return to S mode once you switch out.

How Do I Get Windows 11 S Mode?

Windows 11 S mode is preinstalled on some devices by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM). You cannot get it from Microsoft or anywhere else. However, if you have a device that runs Windows 10 Home in S mode, you can upgrade it to Windows 11 Home in S mode without needing to switch out of S mode.

How Do I Switch Out of Windows 11 S Mode?

If you want to install apps that are not available in the Microsoft Store or use a different web browser or search engine than Microsoft Edge and Bing, you will need to switch out of Windows 11 S mode. Switching out of S mode is free and easy, but remember that it is irreversible.

To switch out of Windows 11 S mode, follow these steps:

On your PC running Windows 11 in S mode, open Settings > System > Activation.
In the Switch to Windows 11 Pro section, select Go to the Store.
On the Switch out of S mode page that appears in the Microsoft Store, select the Get button.

After you see a confirmation message on the page, you will be able to install apps from outside of the Microsoft Store.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Windows 11 S Mode?

Windows 11 S mode has some advantages and disadvantages that you should consider before switching out of it. Here are some of them:

Pros

Safer: Windows 11 S mode reduces the risk of malware infection by allowing only verified apps from the Microsoft Store. It also uses Microsoft Edge as the default browser, which has built-in security features and updates.

Faster: Windows 11 S mode optimizes the system performance by limiting the background processes and startup apps. It also saves your files to OneDrive automatically, freeing up local storage space.

Easier: Windows 11 S mode simplifies device management by requiring less maintenance and updates. It also integrates with your Microsoft account and other Microsoft services seamlessly.

Cons

Limited: Windows 11 S mode restricts your app choices to the Microsoft Store, which may not have all the apps you need or want. It also prevents you from changing your default browser or search engine to anything other than Microsoft Edge and Bing.

Incompatible: Windows 11 S mode may not work well with some hardware devices or drivers that are not supported by the Microsoft Store. It also blocks some features and tools that require administrator privileges or command-line access.

Irreversible: Windows 11 S mode is a one-way switch. If you switch out of S mode, you cannot go back to it. You will also lose some benefits of S mode, such as enhanced security and performance.

Should You Use Windows 11 S Mode?

Whether you should use Windows 11 S mode or not depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you value security and simplicity over flexibility and customization, then S mode may be a good option for you. However, if you want more control and variety over your apps and settings, then you may want to switch out of S mode.

Here are some scenarios where using Windows 11 S mode may be beneficial or detrimental:

You want to ensure your child’s safety: Using Windows 11 in S mode can help protect your child from harmful websites and software by limiting their app choices and browser options. However, you should also use other parental control tools to monitor and restrict their online activities.

You handle sensitive documents: Using Windows 11 in S mode can help prevent malware attacks that could compromise your data by allowing only trusted apps from the Microsoft Store. However, you should also use encryption and backup tools to secure your files further.

You want to do a digital detox: Using Windows 11 in S mode can help reduce distractions and improve focus by offering fewer apps and notifications. However, you should also set boundaries and limits on your screen time and online usage.

You need to use specific apps or hardware: Using Windows 11 in S mode can prevent you from using some apps or devices that are not available or compatible with the Microsoft Store. You may need to switch out of S mode to access them or look for alternatives in the Microsoft Store.

Conclusion

Windows 11 S mode is a version of Windows 11 that is designed for security and performance but also has some limitations and drawbacks. Whether you should use it or not depends on your personal preferences and needs. You can switch out of S mode for free and easily, but you cannot go back to it. Therefore, you should weigh the pros and cons of S mode carefully before making a decision.

We hope this blog post has helped you understand what Windows 11 S mode is and whether you should use it. If you have any questions or feedback, please leave a comment below. Thank you for reading!

Sources

Windows 11 S mode: What it is and why you should use it by Microsoft: https://www.makeuseof.com/windows-11-s-mode-guide/

Windows 11 S mode: A guide for IT pros by Microsoft: https://www.makeuseof.com/windows-11-s-mode-guide/

Windows 11 S mode: Pros and cons by Tom's Hardware: https://www.itondemand.com/2023/06/14/the-pros-and-cons-of-windows-11-s-mode/

Windows 11 S mode: Should you use it? by PCWorld: https://www.makeuseof.com/windows-11-s-mode-guide/

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