how to exit S mode in Windows 11 Home

Hi, good day!

I recently found out that several users are experiencing this issue, and the usual fixes don’t seem to work. It’s likely a temporary problem on Microsoft’s end, and it typically resolves itself within 24–48 hours.

If you need an immediate solution, you can perform a clean Windows installation, just be sure to back up your files first.

Kindly refer to the link below on How to Perform a Clean Install for more details.

https://support.microsoft.com/windows/reinstall-windows-with-the-installation-media-d8369486-3e33-7d9c-dccc-859e2b022fc7

I look forward to your update and am happy to continue working with you until the issue is resolved. If you find the answer helpful, please click "Accept Answer" and consider upvoting it. Otherwise, please keep me posted by clicking "Add comments" below instead of selecting Yes or No.

To switch out of S mode in Windows 11 Home, the Microsoft Store must open and complete the “Switch out of S mode” flow. Since the Store is not loading when opened from Settings → System → Activation, use the direct Store link and then complete the switch there.

1. Use the direct Store link to the switch page:
   • Select this link: Switch out of S Mode
   • This should open Microsoft Store directly on the Switch out of S mode page (or similar).
2. Complete the switch in Microsoft Store:
   • On the Switch out of S mode page, select Get.
   • Wait for the confirmation message that the switch is complete.
   • After that, apps from outside Microsoft Store can be installed.

Important details:

• Switching out of S mode is one-way; it is not possible to go back to Windows 11 in S mode afterward.
• There is no charge to switch out of S mode.

If the device is managed by an organization and the switch is blocked, the administrator must allow switching out of S mode.

References:

• Switching out of S mode in Windows
• Windows 10 and Windows 11 in S mode FAQ
• Windows 11 System Requirements