Installing Zoom on Windows 11 S Mode isn’t exactly a walk in the park if you’re not used to tinkering with system settings. Because of how S Mode is designed (basically to keep everything secure by only allowing apps from the Microsoft Store), you can’t just download the Zoom installer directly from their website without switching out of it. That said, it’s actually doable, but there are a few steps involved, mostly about disabling S Mode first.
Installing Zoom on Windows 11 S Mode
Before installing Zoom, you gotta get out of S Mode — which, honestly, is kinda annoying. The good part? Once that’s done, downloading and installing Zoom is just like on any regular Windows machine. Here’s how that usually goes:
Step 1: Open Windows Settings
Hit the Start button, then click the gear icon for Settings. Quick shortcut: Win + I opens settings too. This is where the magic happens — tweaking, switching modes, etc.
Step 2: Navigate to “Activation”
In Settings, go to System > Activation. That’s where Windows manages your license info and, importantly, where you’ll find the switch to get out of S Mode.
Step 3: Switch out of S Mode
Under the “Activation” page, look for a section that says “Switch to Windows 11 Home” or Pro. There should be a link that says “Go to the Microsoft Store”. Click that; it’ll open the Store app with the switch option.
Because of course, Windows has to make it harder than necessary, but that’s the way it works. On some setups, clicking that link will pop open the Store, and the switch will be a one-click thing.
Step 4: Confirm the Switch
In the Store, click “Get” to confirm you want to leave S Mode. Follow any prompts — it’ll ask if you’re sure, because switching out is permanent. Once that’s done, your device is now free to install apps outside the Store.
Step 5: Download Zoom
Now that you aren’t limited, head over to the Zoom Download Center and grab the installer for Windows. Run it, follow the prompts, and boom — Zoom is ready to go.
One note: on some machines, the switch takes a few minutes or even a reboot before everything kicks in properly. Not sure why it works that way, but yeah, patience is sometimes needed.
Tips for Installing Zoom on Windows 11 S Mode
- Understand S Mode Limitations: It’s all about security and performance, but that limits app sources. Switching out opens up a can of worms, but you gotta do it if you want outsider apps.
- Check Your System Requirements: Before installing Zoom, make sure your PC meets the minimum specs — especially RAM and processor — so you don’t get frustrated during meetings.
- Backup Important Files: If you’re paranoid or just cautious, backup stuff before switching out of S Mode. Nothing should happen to your files, but better safe than sorry.
- Stay Updated: Keep Zoom updated after installation via the app itself — it’ll auto-update or notify you when a new version is available.
- Security Software: Use decent antivirus software, especially when installing anything from outside the Microsoft Store. It’s just smart.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I revert back to S Mode after switching out?
Nope. Switching out is a one-way street. Once you’re out, there’s no turning back.
Is there a cost to switch out of S Mode?
Nope, it’s free. Just click through the prompts in Settings and the Store, no hidden charges.
How do I tell if my device is still in S Mode?
Go to Settings > System > About. If it says “Windows 11 in S Mode,” then you’re still in it. Otherwise, you’re good to go outside S Mode.
Will switching out delete my files or apps?
Nope. It’s just a mode switch, so everything stays put. Your apps and files are intact, just now you can install apps from anywhere, not just the Store.
Can I install other apps after switching?
Yep. That’s the whole point — now you can download and install pretty much anything from the web or other sources.
Summary
- Open Windows Settings.
- Go to Activation.
- Click Switch out of S Mode.
- Follow the prompts to confirm.
- Download and install Zoom from the website.
Conclusion
Getting Zoom up and running on Windows 11 S Mode is kind of a pita if you don’t know the ropes, mainly because you have to leave S Mode first. Once that’s out of the way, it’s just a matter of grabbing the installer from Zoom’s site. No big deal once you get the hang of it, though it does require a quick detour through the Settings and Store. Just remember, switching out is permanent, so no do-overs here. Hopefully this shaves off a few hours for someone, because man, Windows and S Mode can be a pain sometimes. Good luck, and happy zooming!