Thanx. I volunteer at our local computer club (33 years now) and have had the occasion where a member has purchased an S-Mode windows System. Your explanation is terrific. It works well and folks go home happy. 🌻
Thank u so much!! I really was soo unsure as to what to do, I was really worried about ruining something on my laptop or risking it by turning it off that now that I watched your video I find myself more at ease!
Thank you for the information! I just switch off S mode and now I'll finally have freedom to use my laptop. I was struggling with it and didn't know what s mode was until now. I appreciate it.
I purchased an S-mode on clearance without realizing what it was. If you're okay with not using your browser of choice and do not need to download lots of stuff, it is okay. But when I had an issue, Microsoft needed me to turn off s-mode just to fix my issue. Support literally can't fix anything on an s-mode!!
Thank you! I purchased an hp laptop a few months ago and really wasn’t sure what to do. The warning I received when attempting to switch out of s mode was intimidating, and so I would decide not to. After watching your video, I feel more comfortable with my decision. 😊
Senior centers? I am 76 and have been running nothing but Linux for the last 15 years...My first pc was an 8088 with 64K of ram and no hard drive in the 80's DOS 1.0 and Basic 1.0
@3:41 "And that's why I have no way of showing it to you." Leo, a few years ago, I purchased (in person) a Windows 10 Home license from Micro Center. It came in a physical box, with a bootable USB flash drive containing the OS. Upon booting from that flash drive, I was offered several versions of Windows to install. However, the activation key (behind a sticker in the box) is only valid for the Home version. But I have used that USB flash drive to install the Pro version on a different computer, which remains not activated. So that USB flash drive will let me install any of the Windows 10 versions I choose from the listing. I do not recall if S-Mode was one of the choices. But I think it was there. With the above in mind, if you download from Microsoft their Windows 10 ISO, I believe (although I am not sure) that upon starting the installation process, it will let you choose any of the Windows 10 versions, just as my USB flash drive did. If that is true, then you could create an S-Mode virtual machine from Microsoft's ISO download. That would provide you a way to show us (@3:41).
Grandma got a new laptop and Best Buy told them that S-mode was a switch in the settings that could flip on and off as needed. Sounds like a decent idea in theory. Then I get around to setting up her computer and, oh would you look at that, it's non-reversable. And oh would you look at that, the antivirus they sold them isn't in the app store so they can't install it. Just wow.
Thanks!!! Very helpful information. Didn't know about S mode until I tried to, unsuccessfully, download installation software for a new Canon printer. After removing S mode and then download the Canon SW, it took less than 5 minutes to complete the installation.
Thank you for making this video. I just switched out of S Mode on Windows 11. I went to settings and at the top of settings there is search. I typed in ACTIVATION and Go to Store to switch out of S Mode popped up. When to Store - clicked on Switch out of S Mode
S-mode came with some updates to windows 11 from 10. My hp laptop was upgraded automatically to windows 11 without me asking for it. It also came with S-mode. Turned that off right away.
I hate to say it but I know a lot of people in their twenties and thirties who do not how have you been a basic understanding of how a computer operates. These people are best left with a phone, A chromebook, or Windows S.
I have Windows S mode on a Surface Go 3. I have created recovery media with Windows 11 S by putting in the device type and my serial number. If I wanted to go back to S mode, could I use this recovery media to factory reset it to Windows S?
I use Windows 11 Pro but have no use for the Microsoft Store. App stores are for mobile devices like smartphones and tablets. Desktop operating systems use software programs, not apps. Any software that I need is directly from the vendor that makes the software.
I dealt with ALL my microsoft issues. I swapped out the SSD - saved it just in case I meet some unique need in the future. The new SSD is loaded with Linux Mint "Virginia", and now I am very pleased, and regret being so slow to change.
Thank you Leo, I bought 2 inexpensive laptops and did not realize they came in S mode. On one of them I did remove the S mode. I really don't like Edge, so needed to install another browser. Question, isn't is possible to get it back to S mode if we create a recovery USB drive on that laptop before removing S mode? And then doing a system restore? Don't plan on doing that, just curious.
You can't use regedit in S mode either. Maybe not msconfig command too. Rich from cyberCPU Tech has made videoes about the topic of S mode. S mode can be turned on and off trough regedit. I prefer to use Windows in normal mode so the pc can be worked with properly.
My HP Laptop somehow ended up in S- mode Have no Idea how or why, I never updated anything, I already had some Audio control apps ( Midas ) I use for my Job! S mode won’t launch them ! I can’t download an updated version of the software ! I had to use my IPad this last weekend! So I think the S mode sound like something else ! 🙏 thank you for the info regards from Australia
In 2021 I bought a Lenovo gaming laptop with powerful CPU&GPU for almost 2000$ and believe it or not, but it had the S mode turned on! 😅 At that time it was still Windows 10 Home edition.
Heck, I have one that I set up a couple decades ago. Was working IT and needed it. Used it once since for something or other. Don't remember what after all these years. Doesn't really hurt anything, kind of like having your great grandfather's hammer. Never or very rarely use it but doesn't hurt to have. Of course the hammer is more useful.
This S-Mode thing according to how you describe and discuss is tricky. WE NEED OTHER GUIDANCE both from you and from others about dealing with and stopping S-Mode. This video here should *not* be the last one to discuss this.
I built my own desktops, and use the Google Chrome Browser. I also use Norton 360 that stores all of my passwords which applies them automatically when I visit sites that require them. However, I recently installed Windows 10 on a recent repair, and Microsoft prevents me from installing both Chrome and Norton. These are my own computers, but it seems Microsoft wants TOTAL CONTROL of all IBM based systems built by manufacturers, or individuals like myself. This appears to be a MONOPOLIZATION by Microsoft that the Government should be made aware of.
Microsoft knows that most of the software available online outside the Microsoft store is full of malware so S Mode is probably a good thing for most Windows users. That's why Microsoft copied Mac OS and Linux and started a store in the first place.
What is infuriating is that you can't get a Windows S mode in a virtual machine to practice on if you have to help people who have it. I had to learn on the thing. You should be able download an S mode Windows for virtualization.
I think Microsoft created S mode to compete with Chromebooks and have a secure version for school students. Many schools issue laptops to students for use during the school year. Unfortunately wen you buy a new PC or laptop at the store, many do come with S mode
I just bought a new laptop did not know it had s mode I want to install an app I bought for embroidery I am only using this new laptop for my sewing and embroidery I will not be installing games music or anything else I paid 179.00 for simply applique from brother and in is not in window app store I need to install it so I can use it wish I knew about the s mode before I bought this laptop it said nothing about s mode in the description when I bought it think I am going to turn it off since this app is the only one I will ever install and I have this app on another laptop and never had any problems with it I trust brother that is who I bought the app from so going to do it and turn off s mode thank you
S mode...just another way MS is trying to increase their revenue stream (MS Store) and invade our privacy. *Note to MS* We're all getting tired of your BS!!!! Sell us your OS and LEAVE US ALONE!!! Another great video, Leo 👍.
What do you get when you couple a computer that comes stock with a camera, microphone, fingerprint scanner, facial recognition, voice recognition, passkey support, location tracking, a feature that takes snapshots of everything you do every 3 minutes and stores it with a company that desire's to force the user to sign into it, all their apps, browsers, and websites using theirr face , voice, passkey, and fingerprints? Cause i'm no conspiracy theorist but you have to admit it has everything in it that a an entity that would seek to surveille the population for purposes of enforcing compliance would need in order to do so. Just a Coincidence?
Until Microsoft ups the quality of the Microsoft Store then in my opinion it's not worth the tradeoff of security vs frustration. The only place I remember them being used was my university's library loaner laptops. But even then, there are better ways to lock the computer from people downloading stuff.
To me, S-Mode seems similar to Chromebooks and for people with simple needs; why not? My wife is NOT tech savy, and it would probably suit her perfectly. I don’t like Microsoft's method of turning S-mode off. I could see people accidentally signing up for Pro in error. It should be more straightforward and not able to go back, just kills the whole thing.
I think all Windows computer should be sold in s mode. The only way to deactivate S mode is to prove that you, the user, can install and configure either a Linux or BSD. 😁
S mode exists for people who, essentially, shouldn't be trusted. Think kids, or the very inexperienced. It prevents them from installing random stuff. (And there are people who definitely cannot be trusted in that regard.)
Thanx. I volunteer at our local computer club (33 years now) and have had the occasion where a member has purchased an S-Mode windows System. Your explanation is terrific. It works well and folks go home happy. 🌻
Thank u so much!! I really was soo unsure as to what to do, I was really worried about ruining something on my laptop or risking it by turning it off that now that I watched your video I find myself more at ease!
Thank you for the information! I just switch off S mode and now I'll finally have freedom to use my laptop. I was struggling with it and didn't know what s mode was until now. I appreciate it.
I purchased an S-mode on clearance without realizing what it was. If you're okay with not using your browser of choice and do not need to download lots of stuff, it is okay. But when I had an issue, Microsoft needed me to turn off s-mode just to fix my issue. Support literally can't fix anything on an s-mode!!
Thank you! I purchased an hp laptop a few months ago and really wasn’t sure what to do. The warning I received when attempting to switch out of s mode was intimidating, and so I would decide not to. After watching your video, I feel more comfortable with my decision. 😊
Glad you came back to youtube!
Sounds like S Mode would have applications for institutions; ie prisons, loony bins, maybe some schools, libraries, senior centers, and the like.
And Congress (loony bins)
"Loony bins!" - do you mean Government?
Senior centers? I am 76 and have been running nothing but Linux for the last 15 years...My first pc was an 8088 with 64K of ram and no hard drive in the 80's
DOS 1.0 and Basic 1.0
LOL @ Looney Bins
@3:41 "And that's why I have no way of showing it to you."
Leo, a few years ago, I purchased (in person) a Windows 10 Home license from Micro Center. It came in a physical box, with a bootable USB flash drive containing the OS.
Upon booting from that flash drive, I was offered several versions of Windows to install. However, the activation key (behind a sticker in the box) is only valid for the Home version. But I have used that USB flash drive to install the Pro version on a different computer, which remains not activated.
So that USB flash drive will let me install any of the Windows 10 versions I choose from the listing.
I do not recall if S-Mode was one of the choices. But I think it was there.
With the above in mind, if you download from Microsoft their Windows 10 ISO, I believe (although I am not sure) that upon starting the installation process, it will let you choose any of the Windows 10 versions, just as my USB flash drive did.
If that is true, then you could create an S-Mode virtual machine from Microsoft's ISO download. That would provide you a way to show us (@3:41).
Sadly "S" isn't one of the options.
Grandma got a new laptop and Best Buy told them that S-mode was a switch in the settings that could flip on and off as needed. Sounds like a decent idea in theory. Then I get around to setting up her computer and, oh would you look at that, it's non-reversable. And oh would you look at that, the antivirus they sold them isn't in the app store so they can't install it. Just wow.
Thank you for this info.
Thanks!!! Very helpful information. Didn't know about S mode until I tried to, unsuccessfully, download installation software for a new Canon printer. After removing S mode and then download the Canon SW, it took less than 5 minutes to complete the installation.
Wow, thank you. Your video was the most helpful
Thanks my brotha. I didnt understand, now I do.
Thank you for making this video. I just switched out of S Mode on Windows 11. I went to settings and at the top of settings there is search. I typed in ACTIVATION and Go to Store to switch out of S Mode popped up. When to Store - clicked on Switch out of S Mode
Did you need a microsoft account to turn it off?
That was valuable.
When I go to buy a new laptop, how do I know if it has S Mode or not? Thanks. JimE
Great question. I’m in the market for a new laptop and can’t decide on brand, now I have this to worry about. Lol
Mine was listed in the specs along with the operating system version. Said Windows 11 Home in S mode.
@@jasontx1274 Thanks jason. Just checked my system info and all it says is "Microsoft Windows 11 Home" JimE
I find it amazing how few popular software are available in the MS store… I find it as close to useless as can be.
Thank you so much Leo! The update snuck s mode into my system. Couldn´t open a thing.
S-mode came with some updates to windows 11 from 10. My hp laptop was upgraded automatically to windows 11 without me asking for it. It also came with S-mode. Turned that off right away.
A senior citizen that never came to terms with computers, but has to use credit cards over internet (medical stuck at home) and bank--it is ideal.
I hate to say it but I know a lot of people in their twenties and thirties who do not how have you been a basic understanding of how a computer operates. These people are best left with a phone, A chromebook, or Windows S.
True😂 @@davidmartin8211
❤thank you for sharing this information with us 🎉
I have Windows S mode on a Surface Go 3. I have created recovery media with Windows 11 S by putting in the device type and my serial number. If I wanted to go back to S mode, could I use this recovery media to factory reset it to Windows S?
In theory, yes.
As S-Mode only allows for the installation of MS Store software, I wonder if this would block malware from non-MS Store sources?
That is it's purpose...
Any difference between X/N300? Firmware? x300 is marketinged as gaming while N300 for NAS but they are pretty identical
I use Windows 11 Pro but have no use for the Microsoft Store. App stores are for mobile devices like smartphones and tablets. Desktop operating systems use software programs, not apps. Any software that I need is directly from the vendor that makes the software.
I dealt with ALL my microsoft issues. I swapped out the SSD - saved it just in case I meet some unique need in the future. The new SSD is loaded with Linux Mint "Virginia", and now I am very pleased, and regret being so slow to change.
Thank you Leo, I bought 2 inexpensive laptops and did not realize they came in S mode. On one of them I did remove the S mode. I really don't like Edge, so needed to install another browser. Question, isn't is possible to get it back to S mode if we create a recovery USB drive on that laptop before removing S mode? And then doing a system restore? Don't plan on doing that, just curious.
I don't think a system restore is enough. Perhaps a complete image backup taken prior to turning off S mode.
how do I know if my MS.Surface 7 is in S-mode?
How can I tell if my laptop has S mode?
Thanks Leo
My previous PC automatically turned itself into S mode when I updated it, and that's how I learnt about it and how to turn it off
They also disabled Command Prompt is S mode
You can't use regedit in S mode either. Maybe not msconfig command too. Rich from cyberCPU Tech has made videoes about the topic of S mode. S mode can be turned on and off trough regedit. I prefer to use Windows in normal mode so the pc can be worked with properly.
Does anyone know if you can install Steam on an s mode computer? If yes, will window allow you to install games via steam?
I think it depends on the computer. Not 100% sure, but window will not allow it to be installed unless s mode is turned off.
@@xpotatox187 after posting this I did check and I do not think you can install steam on Windows s mode.
What BS. Microsoft needs to have its wings trimmed a bit. It's becoming WAY too involved in my everyday computer use. Now considering Linux.
Let me know how you are getting on...
So I don't want S mode on my computers, but I want my mom and mother-in-law to have it.
This S-Mode. With only the title I thought you meant Single-Mode for Fiber. Maybe add a Windows before the S-Mode
My HP Laptop somehow ended up in S- mode
Have no Idea how or why, I never updated anything, I already had some Audio control apps ( Midas ) I use for my Job! S mode won’t launch them ! I can’t download an updated version of the software !
I had to use my IPad this last weekend! So I think the S mode sound like something else !
🙏 thank you for the info regards from Australia
In 2021 I bought a Lenovo gaming laptop with powerful CPU&GPU for almost 2000$ and believe it or not, but it had the S mode turned on! 😅 At that time it was still Windows 10 Home edition.
Its a pain and you need to have a Microsoft account to turn it off and who wants one of those !
Heck, I have one that I set up a couple decades ago. Was working IT and needed it. Used it once since for something or other. Don't remember what after all these years. Doesn't really hurt anything, kind of like having your great grandfather's hammer. Never or very rarely use it but doesn't hurt to have. Of course the hammer is more useful.
This S-Mode thing according to how you describe and discuss is tricky. WE NEED OTHER GUIDANCE both from you and from others about dealing with and stopping S-Mode. This video here should *not* be the last one to discuss this.
Microsoft should be the one helping you with their product and that tells you all you need to know about that company.
I built my own desktops, and use the Google Chrome Browser. I also use Norton 360 that stores all of my passwords which applies them automatically when I visit sites that require them. However, I recently installed Windows 10 on a recent repair, and Microsoft prevents me from installing both Chrome and Norton. These are my own computers, but it seems Microsoft wants TOTAL CONTROL of all IBM based systems built by manufacturers, or individuals like myself. This appears to be a MONOPOLIZATION by Microsoft that the Government should be made aware of.
Microsoft knows that most of the software available online outside the Microsoft store is full of malware so S Mode is probably a good thing for most Windows users. That's why Microsoft copied Mac OS and Linux and started a store in the first place.
What is infuriating is that you can't get a Windows S mode in a virtual machine to practice on if you have to help people who have it. I had to learn on the thing. You should be able download an S mode Windows for virtualization.
I think Microsoft created S mode to compete with Chromebooks and have a secure version for school students. Many schools issue laptops to students for use during the school year. Unfortunately wen you buy a new PC or laptop at the store, many do come with S mode
Fr💀
I just bought a new laptop did not know it had s mode I want to install an app I bought for embroidery I am only using this new laptop for my sewing and embroidery I will not be installing games music or anything else I paid 179.00 for simply applique from brother and in is not in window app store I need to install it so I can use it wish I knew about the s mode before I bought this laptop it said nothing about s mode in the description when I bought it think I am going to turn it off since this app is the only one I will ever install and I have this app on another laptop and never had any problems with it I trust brother that is who I bought the app from so going to do it and turn off s mode thank you
I totally agree Leo! Turn that S__t off!
S mode...just another way MS is trying to increase their revenue stream (MS Store) and invade our privacy.
*Note to MS* We're all getting tired of your BS!!!! Sell us your OS and LEAVE US ALONE!!!
Another great video, Leo 👍.
What do you get when you couple a computer that comes stock with a camera, microphone, fingerprint scanner, facial recognition, voice recognition, passkey support, location tracking, a feature that takes snapshots of everything you do every 3 minutes and stores it with a company that desire's to force the user to sign into it, all their apps, browsers, and websites using theirr face , voice, passkey, and fingerprints? Cause i'm no conspiracy theorist but you have to admit it has everything in it that a an entity that would seek to surveille the population for purposes of enforcing compliance would need in order to do so. Just a Coincidence?
Sillier and sillier. What about admin password?
Not an issue. I have zero intention of EVER having windows 10 or 11.
Useful to stop the friendly guy calling from Microsoft India about the 500 viruses currently on your computer that he is going to help you remove.
🤣🤣🤣
Shit Mode. Leave it to Microsoft to think of and actually implement such garbage "functionality."
Until Microsoft ups the quality of the Microsoft Store then in my opinion it's not worth the tradeoff of security vs frustration. The only place I remember them being used was my university's library loaner laptops. But even then, there are better ways to lock the computer from people downloading stuff.
format hard drive,, reinstall from flash drive,, easy..
To me, S-Mode seems similar to Chromebooks and for people with simple needs; why not?
My wife is NOT tech savy, and it would probably suit her perfectly.
I don’t like Microsoft's method of turning S-mode off. I could see people accidentally signing up for Pro in error. It should be more straightforward and not able to go back, just kills the whole thing.
Congratulations you are smarter than most Windows users!
I think all Windows computer should be sold in s mode. The only way to deactivate S mode is to prove that you, the user, can install and configure either a Linux or BSD. 😁
Silly mode.😢
Give your geekweak relatives a computer with S mode enabled, or buy them a chrome book.
using windows 10 home single language 64bit here
So in a nutshell it is a Microsoft version of a Chromebook.
Kinda, yeah.
There is no option to switch to Pro!
efin Microsoft. Just more money grabs. Trying to follow Apple model.
Welcome to capitalism.
get a computer from a worker’s paradise if you don’t like it
taking it off because I need Zoom!
It should be called iMode. iPhone mode.
Why is Microsoft doing this?
S mode exists for people who, essentially, shouldn't be trusted. Think kids, or the very inexperienced. It prevents them from installing random stuff. (And there are people who definitely cannot be trusted in that regard.)