Switching off Windows 11 S-mode

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In summary, the conversation discusses the potential downside of switching off Windows 11 S-mode on a new, budget-friendly laptop. The speaker explains that with S-mode, apps not from the Microsoft store cannot be used, making it useless for them. They also mention a store employee warning against switching off S-mode, but the speaker is unsure if this is true or just a sales tactic. They ask if there are any performance issues with switching off S-mode and if it would be better to spend more money on a laptop without S-mode. The conversation also mentions the availability of non-Microsoft apps in the Microsoft store, such as LibreOffice. Ultimately, the speaker decides to order a more expensive laptop, hoping it will not have S-mode installed.
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Doc Al
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Is there any downside to switching off Win 11 S-mode?
My question: Is there any downside to switching off Win 11 S-mode?

I'm looking for a new, not too expensive, Windows laptop. It seems like most of the laptops have Windows 11 S-mode installed. With S-mode, apps not from the MS store cannot be used, making such a laptop useless for me. (I don't use many MS apps, such as Office or Edge. I use downloaded apps for all of that and more.)

I went into a store yesterday to see what they had and the "tech" guy was trying to convince me that while S-mode can be switched off, he doesn't advise doing that as the PC won't work properly. I don't know if he's speaking truth or just trying to upsell me something.

So my question: If I get a laptop with S-mode and switch it off, which I think replaces it with Win 11 Home, is there any issue with performance? Will it be just as if Win 11 Home had been there in the first place? (Or should I just spend more money to get one without S-mode?)
 
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Are there differences in the physical specs of it and the more expensive unit? That would be something to consider.

BTW, the MS app store has more than just "Microsoft brand" apps. These are just ones that have MS stamp of approval. Kind of like downloading apps to yor iphone from Apple's store. They are not made by Apple.
 
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scottdave said:
Are there differences in the physical specs of it and the more expensive unit? That would be something to consider.
Yes, I'm sure the more expensive ones have better specs. I did end up ordering a more expensive unit. (Hopefully it will not arrive with S-mode installed!) More than I needed, but it won't go to waste.
 
  • #4
scottdave said:
Are there differences in the physical specs of it and the more expensive unit? That would be something to consider.

BTW, the MS app store has more than just "Microsoft brand" apps. These are just ones that have MS stamp of approval. Kind of like downloading apps to yor iphone from Apple's store. They are not made by Apple.
LibreOffice is in the Microsoft Store. I have not tried it in Windows 11.
 
  • #5
FactChecker said:
LibreOffice is in the Microsoft Store.
Good to know. (That's what I generally use.)
 

FAQ: Switching off Windows 11 S-mode

How do I switch off Windows 11 S-mode?

To switch off Windows 11 S-mode, go to Settings, then Update & Security, and select Activation. From there, click on the "Go to the Store" link and follow the prompts to switch out of S-mode.

Will switching off Windows 11 S-mode affect my computer's performance?

Switching off Windows 11 S-mode will allow you to install apps from outside the Microsoft Store, which can potentially improve your computer's performance by giving you access to a wider range of software options.

Can I switch back to Windows 11 S-mode after switching it off?

Once you switch off Windows 11 S-mode, you cannot switch back to it. However, you can perform a clean installation of Windows 11 S-mode if you wish to return to it in the future.

Will switching off Windows 11 S-mode void my warranty?

No, switching off Windows 11 S-mode will not void your warranty. It is a supported feature of Windows 11 and can be done without any negative impact on your warranty status.

Are there any risks involved in switching off Windows 11 S-mode?

There are minimal risks involved in switching off Windows 11 S-mode. However, it is important to ensure that you only download and install apps from trusted sources to avoid any potential security threats.

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