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, pending updates can interfere with the process:
Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
Check for updates and install any that are available.
After updating, try to switch out of S Mode again.If you don’t see the option to switch out of S Mode, ensure you're using a legitimate Windows 10 Home or Pro version. Sometimes, OEM setups on specific devices might restrict this.
- 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.
- Open mobile hotspot on your phone and connect the computer to hotspot. This trick worked for me in the past!
- I solved the problem by connecting to another network.
Windows S is a limited license - you need an additional Windows Pro license, in the Microsoft Store - check , or at a Lenovo computer retailer.
- Mostly, it is a network issue. Reboot the router and the computer. This will fix this error.
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.- 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.
- 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.
