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Dear PC Doctor:
I was helping a friend set up her new Acer laptop (Windows 10). We wanted to download Chrome. A message popped up saying we had to exit “S mode” in order to do that and, once we left S mode, we wouldn’t be able to return. That sounded ominous! What is S mode?
Thanks,
Alicia
Dear Alicia:
Microsoft has this to say about S mode:
“Windows 10 in S mode is a version of Windows 10 that's 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.”
If you want to install an app that isn't available in the Microsoft Store, you'll need to permanently switch out of S mode. There's no charge to switch out of S mode, but you won't be able to turn it back on. On your PC running Windows 10 in S mode, 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.
Note: Don't select the link under Upgrade your edition of Windows. That's a different process that will keep you in S mode.
On the page that appears in the Microsoft Store (Switch out of S mode or a similar page), select the Get button. After you confirm this action, you'll be able to install apps from outside the Microsoft Store.
Until next time,
Happy Computing!
PC Doctor
Editor's Note: Questions should be directed to PC Doctor, care of the Athol Public Library, info@athollibrary.org or Athol Public Library, 568 Main St., Athol, Mass. 01331, or dropped off at the library.
Posted: to Athol Library News on Mon, Mar 9, 2020
Updated: Mon, Mar 9, 2020