Forum Discussion
Cannot switch out of S Mode
Hi,
There doesn't seem to be a specific community hub for my question, so perhaps someone can direct me. I just bought a Lenovo, I'm using windows 10 or 11 i'm not sure which, and when I click "Get" to switch off S mode all I get is a page saying "Something happened and we couldn't start the upgrade".
The reason I bought a Lenovo because the software I need for a contract requires Windows. And I can't download the software because of the S mode, which won't switch off. To add to my frustration the contract has already started and I'm behind.
I've updated the laptops software, restarted numerous times, and I get the same message.
If anyone can help, that would be much appreciated.
- Sometimes a simple restart can resolve issues with the system settings and the Microsoft Store. Click on the Start menu, select the Power button, and then click "Restart."
If you're unable to switch out of S Mode on Windows 10, try the following steps:
Ensure Internet Connection: Make sure your device is connected to the internet.
Update Windows: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and check for updates.
Use Microsoft Store: Open Microsoft Store, search for "Switch out of S mode," and follow the instructions.
Restart Your Device: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve the issue.
If the problem persists, contact Microsoft Support for further assistance.- Great tip! Thanks!
- Great, i'll try it!
Jarrett560 I had a Lenovo IdeaPad 1. I tried all the above and they did not work.
In Seach Bar - About
Shows Windows 11 Home S Mode
What did work
1. Get BitLocker Key from Control Panel - BitLocker - export Key***
*** you will need that key, do not proceed without key
2. Reboot laptop into BIOS
3. Disable Secure Boot in BIOS
4. Reboot - now BitLocker Key will be used to boot back in
Now in Seach Bar - About
Shows Windows 11 Home
You can install older applications
WHY MS, WHY???
- Go to Settings> System> Activision. Then in the Switch to Windows 11 Pro section click “Go to the store” and Get the “Switch out of S mode” on the store page.
- If you're using a Microsoft-issued device (e.g., Surface), you may need to contact Microsoft support for assistance with switching out of S mode.
ConnorJames 1.Open Settings:
Click on the Start menu and then click on the Settings icon (gear icon).
2.Navigate to Update & Security:
Click on Update & Security.
3.Go to Activation:
Select Activation from the left sidebar.
4.Switch out of S Mode:
You should see a section labeled "Switch to Windows 10 Home" or "Switch to Windows 11 Home."
Click on the Go to the Store link under the "Switch to Windows 10 Home" section.
5.Follow the Prompts:
This will open the Microsoft Store. You should see a page detailing what it means to switch out of S mode. Click on the Get button.
6.Confirmation:
Follow any additional prompts. The process should only take a few moments, and you’ll receive confirmation when it’s done.- Mostly, it is a network issue. Reboot the router and the computer. This will fix this error.
Windows S is a limited license - you need an additional Windows Pro license, in the Microsoft Store - check , or at a Lenovo computer retailer.
- I solved the problem by connecting to another network.
- Open mobile hotspot on your phone and connect the computer to hotspot. This trick worked for me in the past!
- Firewall and antivirus software might be interfering with the upgrade process. Try disabling them temporarily:
Go to your Firewall settings (you can search for "Firewall" in Settings).
Disable Windows Defender Firewall (or any other firewall software installed).
Go to your antivirus software settings (e.g., Windows Defender) and disable it.
Restart your laptop and try switching out of S mode again.In Windows S mode, the user does not have permission to perform these steps.
