Getting Chrome on a Windows 11 S Mode Device
Getting Google Chrome onto a Windows 11 S Mode laptop can feel a bit like trying to solve a puzzle put together by someone with a laugh. S Mode keeps things locked down by only letting you install apps from the Microsoft Store, which can seem a bit restrictive. But no worries – with a bit of patience and some trial and error, you’ll crack it. Here’s how to do it.
First up, head to Settings. Open it by clicking on the Start menu (the little Windows icon, you know the one) or just press Windows + I. Settings is your hub for all things make-it-happen—or, at the very least, the place where you find out why this process feels a bit more complicated than it should.
Next, go to System and find Activation. Sometimes it feels like it’s buried deep in there. Not great, but it’s essential if you want to get out of S Mode. To save a bit of time, just type “Activation” into the search bar—way quicker.
Here’s the fun part: look for a link that says “Switch to Windows 11 Home” or something similar. Sometimes it’s hidden behind a button like “Go to the Store,” which can throw you off. Don’t stress — clicking that will take you to the screen to liberate your laptop from S Mode. The key steps are under Microsoft Store > Home > S Mode.
When you click through, you’ll get a confirmation message asking if you’re sure about leaving S Mode. Spoiler: you are. Just hit okay, and your device will switch into a more flexible mode—no more S Mode restrictions, which means installing Chrome is now straightforward.
Once S Mode is out, launch your default browser (probably Edge) and head to Google’s Chrome download page. They recommend sticking to official downloads — sensible enough. If you’re feeling a bit more technical, you can also grab Chrome using PowerShell or Command Prompt with a command like:
Invoke-WebRequest -Uri "https://dl.google.com/chrome/install/latest/chrome_installer.exe" -OutFile "$Env:USERPROFILE\Downloads\chrome_installer.exe"
Run that, and once it’s downloaded, just install the file manually.
Time to install! Find the chrome_installer.exe file in your Downloads folder and double-click it. The installer will guide you through the process because—let’s be honest—Microsoft isn’t the only one with user-friendly setups. For the more tech-savvy, there’s also a silent install option:
start /wait chrome_installer.exe /silent /install
which is a handy way to set up Chrome on several machines without messing about.
Once you’ve finished these steps, your Windows 11 device is free to run Chrome without those restrictions. Enjoy faster browsing, better extensions, and all the stuff you couldn’t do in S Mode. Nice and flexible now.
Some Handy Tips
Before you jump in, keep a few things in mind—this isn’t quite a “one-click-and-it’s done” situation.
– To check you’ve really escaped S Mode, run this in PowerShell:
DISM /Online /Get-CurrentEdition
You should see an edition that’s not in S Mode—that’s your green light!
– Also, it’s a good idea to run Windows Defender or another reputable antivirus once you’re out of S Mode. Even though your device’s unlocked, security still matters.
Back up your important files before making these changes—that way, if something goes sideways, you’re covered. Keep in mind, some really old computers might throw a spanner in the works, so check Chrome’s requirements before you start.
To stay safe, keep Chrome up to date by enabling automatic updates or checking under Settings > About Chrome. And if you’re after alternative browsers, there are still options available from the Microsoft Store if you prefer a more locked-down setup.
Common Questions
Can I go back to S Mode after installing Chrome?
Nah, once you leave S Mode, that’s it. No return trip. So give it some thought if you’re unsure.
Will switching out of S Mode wipe my data?
No worries there. The switch just lets you install more apps—your files and existing apps stay put. Everything should be safe.
Is Chrome the best browser for Windows 11?
That’s a matter of personal choice. Chrome is quick and has loads of extensions, but some folks swear by Edge or Firefox. It’s up to you.
Is switching out of S Mode risky?
Kinda. It opens up options but also means more potential security threats if you’re not careful. Keep your antivirus active and Windows up to date, and you’ll be right.
Can I install other browsers now?
Absolutely. With S Mode gone, any browser you want—like Firefox, Opera, or the usual suspects—is fair game.
Getting Chrome set up isn’t just ticking off a checklist—it’s about taking your laptop out of S Mode and into the open where you can choose your apps. You might hit a few bumps early on, but once you’re through, it’s smooth sailing. Just keep your security tight, and enjoy the freedom to customise!