# Comprehensive Guide: Disabling Windows 11 S Mode

Windows 11 in S Mode is designed for security and performance by only allowing apps from the Microsoft Store. However, for many users and technicians, this is too restrictive. Below are the two primary ways to disable it.

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## Method 1: The Official Process (Microsoft Account Required)
This is the "supported" method. It is permanent and requires an active internet connection and a Microsoft Account.

1. **Open Activation Settings**:
   * Go to **Settings** > **System** > **Activation**.
2. **Switch Out of S Mode**:
   * Look for the section **Switch to Windows 11 Home**.
   * Click the link that says **Go to the Store**.
3. **Download the "Switch"**:
   * The Microsoft Store will open to a page titled **Switch out of S mode**.
   * Click the **Get** button.
   * Once the process completes, you will receive a confirmation, and you can now install `.exe` files from any source.

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## Method 2: The Technician's Method (No Microsoft Account)
This method involves modifying the registry via the Recovery Environment. It is useful for setting up a PC for a client or family member without logging into your own Microsoft account.

### 1. Booting into Recovery Mode (WinRE)
Use any of these methods to reach the blue "Choose an option" screen:
* **Shift + Restart**: Hold the **Shift** key while clicking **Restart** from the Power menu.
* **Settings**: Go to **Settings** > **System** > **Recovery** and click **Restart now** next to **Advanced startup**.
* **Hard Reset**: Turn the PC on and hold the power button to force a shutdown as soon as the Windows logo appears. Repeat this 3 times to trigger **Automatic Repair**.

### 2. Disabling Secure Boot (Generic Instructions)
Most registry modifications of this type require Secure Boot to be temporarily disabled to prevent boot loops or signature errors.
1. In Recovery Mode, go to **Troubleshoot** > **Advanced Options** > **UEFI Firmware Settings**.
2. Click **Restart** to enter the BIOS/UEFI.
3. Locate the **Security** or **Boot** tab.
4. Find **Secure Boot** and set it to **Disabled**.
5. **Save and Exit** (usually F10).

### 3. Registry Modification via Command Prompt
Once back in the Recovery Environment:
1. Go to **Troubleshoot** > **Advanced Options** > **Command Prompt**.
2. **Identify your Windows Drive**: The drive letter in Recovery is often different (e.g., `D:` instead of `C:`).
   * Type `diskpart`, then `list volume`. 
   * Identify the drive with your Windows installation (usually the largest "Partition"). Note the letter. 
   * Type `exit`.
3. **Mount the Registry Hive**:
   * Type the following (replace `C:` if your drive letter was different):
     ```cmd
     reg load HKLM\OfflineSystem C:\Windows\System32\config\SYSTEM
     ```
4. **Modify the S Mode Keys**:
   * Type `regedit` to open the graphical editor.
   * Navigate to: `HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\OfflineSystem\ControlSet001\Control\CI\Policy`
   * In the right pane, look for **SkuPolicyRequired**. Double-click it and change the value to `0`.
   * (Optional but recommended) If **VerifiedAndReputablePolicyState** exists, set it to `0` as well.
5. **Unload the Hive and Clean Up**:
   * Close the Registry Editor.
   * In the Command Prompt, type:
     ```cmd
     reg unload HKLM\OfflineSystem
     ```
   * Close the Command Prompt and click **Turn off your PC**.

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*Once you're back in Windows and have confirmed you can now run traditional x86 (non-Microsoft store) applications, it is recommended to re-enable secure boot.*