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CyrusIronwood's avatar
CyrusIronwood
Iron Contributor
Nov 13, 2025

Windows 11 S mode

From shopping it looks like new PCs come with Win 11 “s mode”. If that is turned off can Windows Defender still be used? Lot of reviews saying “s mode” making cheaper models too slow to use.

And why can it not be turned back on? One way only seems pretty stupid! Thanks.

security

1 Reply

  • JesusGarcia's avatar
    JesusGarcia
    Iron Contributor
    Nov 17, 2025

    When you switch out of S Mode, Windows Defender (now called Windows Security) remains fully functional. In S Mode, the system uses Windows Defender as the default and only antivirus solution, and it's locked into that mode.

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