Remove Windows 10/11 From S Mode

Owned by Johnny Verkaik
Last updated: Nov 23, 2023 by Max Wilcocks
2 min read

Some devices have "Windows 10 S Mode" active, which is a high-security instance that restricts access to applications and prevents any apps from being installed outside of the Microsoft Store. This presents a problem for students requiring special software for their programs and impedes the free use of the device for the end user. Follow these steps to remove it.

Step-by-step guide (From Microsoft)


Note:

This process makes changes to the operating system. Users should always perform a backup beforehand to avoid potential data loss in the event of a failure.


  1. Open Settings  > Update & Security  > Activation.
  2. In the Switch to Windows 10/11 Home or Switch to Windows 10/11 Pro section, select Go to the Store. (If you also see an "Upgrade your edition of Windows" section, be careful not to click the "Go to the Store" link that appears there.)
  3. In the Switch out of S mode (or similar) page that appears in the Microsoft Store, select the Get button. After you see a confirmation message on the page, you'll be able to install apps from outside of the Microsoft Store.

Licencing 


A licence key for Windows 10 can be acquired from the software portal on myLambton if needed. Follow the steps below to receive and utilize it.


Note:

Changing the licence may change the features and functionality of your Windows installation. Complete version upgrades (ex. Windows 8 to Windows 10) are beyond the scope of IT Department services and will require external technical assistance at additional cost. Visit us in room B1-161 if you have any questions.


  1.  Navigate to the myLambton software portal here.
  2. Click the blue "Search for Software" button.
  3. Choose "Students" from the navigation bar at the top of the page (Microsoft has discontinued the home use program for employees. Students still receive Office and Windows 10 for free).
  4. Select Windows 10/11 from the list of available software, then "Add to Cart"
  5. Click the cart icon at the top of the page, scroll to the bottom, and click "Check Out".
  6. Complete the checkout process.
  7. Copy or take a screenshot of the licence key you receive for your product. You will only have access to view it on the software portal for 30 days.
  8. Press the "Start" button, and search for "Activation". 
  9. In the Activation settings pane, click "Change product key".
  10. Enter the new product key in the pop-up box and click "Next".
  11. Click "Activate" to complete the process.