If hackers are able to enter the systems of large companies that spend millions on cybersecurity, what can't they do with our devices? This issue is worrying and, precisely for this reason, more and more people want to increase their protection when using electronic devices. If this is your case, and you have a PC, you should know Windows 11 in S mode.
This super secure mode increases computer security and improves performance. In return, it limits the use that we can give to the operating system. So you can decide if it is best for you, here you have all the information you need.
What is Windows 11 in S mode?
This is a version of Microsoft's operating system that is optimized to improve security and performance. Precisely for this reason, when it is activated, we can only use it on our computer applications installed from the Microsoft Store.
Another limitation that we encounter is that we will only be able to use Microsoft Edge as a browser, and the default search engine will be Bing.
That is, you can only use Microsoft's own apps and products. What you get by not using third-party products is increase the security of your equipment.
How do you turn Windows 11 on and off in S mode?
This variant is only available in the Windows 11 Home edition. When doing the first configuration of the device you can decide to use it or not in S mode.
To find out if your computer is working in this mode, follow this route: Windows > Settings > System > About. In this section you can see if the operating system is running in the secure version.
You can deactivate it but, once this is done, you will no longer be able to return to Microsoft's megasafe mode, you will be left with the standard version of Windows 11 Home. To deactivate go to the system settings, Look for the privacy and security options and disable it.
Advantages of this mode
Using this safe mode has important benefits that you should know about:
Enhanced Security
It is responsible for running all applications in a secure environment, which minimizes security threats. To make it, It only allows you to download apps from the Microsoft Store, which reduces the risk of malware infection.
Optimized performance
The apps available in the Microsoft Store are optimized to work with this operating system, resulting in smoother and faster performance.
Ease of administration
Simplifies equipment management as upgrades and maintenance become more predictable. This is especially useful in environments where a strict control over the software that can be installed and run on computers, such as an educational center or a company.
a higher battery time
For laptops, by restricting the type of applications that can be installed and run, the system consumes less power, which increases battery life.
Disadvantages of S mode
Improving security has many benefits, but Also some cons that you should know to be able to make the decision whether or not you are interested in activating Windows 11 in S mode.
Application limitation
It only allows the installation of apps from the Microsoft Store, therefore limiting access to popular applications that are only available for download through other channels. In the case of advanced or professional users, who They may need software that is not available in the Microsoft store, This limitation may not be very well received.
reduced flexibility
In S mode we are limited to using Microsoft Edge as a browser. Something that can become a problem for users who prefer to use other browsers such as Chrome or Firefox.
On the other hand, development tools, advanced design software and other specialized programs are not available in the Microsoft Store, which limits the work that can be done with the team.
Limited customization
Compared to standard versions of Windows 11, in S mode customization options and advanced system settings They are quite restricted. This can be frustrating for users who want full control over operating system settings and behavior.
Hardware and software compatibility
Some peripherals and hardware may have drivers that are not available in the Microsoft Store, which may limit their use.
In the case of companies that use customized applications, their use can become impossible due to the installation restrictions that mode S implies.
In which cases is it recommended to opt for Windows 11 in S mode?
This modality significantly improves security. In return, it imposes a series of limitations that are not always appropriate. Therefore, we must carefully assess whether it is worth using the Microsoft operating system in its mega-safe mode, or whether It is more interesting to use the normal mode and look for other alternatives to improve the security of the equipment.
S mode is recommended for those cases in which a computer is used by different people. For example, the equipment that is available to students in educational centers. Because this limits the users' ability to maneuver, and Installation of certain programs is not allowed.
It can also be used in companies, but it will be necessary to previously assess whether the limitations it imposes can become an obstacle.
If you have purchased a computer for your children to study, S mode is also a good choice. It will prevent them from installing programs from unsafe sources. In addition, the native Microsoft browser, which is the only one available in these cases, offers important additional online security features, to prevent children from visiting potentially dangerous websites.
However, if you configure a computer to be used in S mode and later regret it, you can always reverse the operation and switch it to the normal mode of the operating system. What you won't be able to do afterwards is go back to mega-safe mode, so think carefully before making your decision.
Windows 11 in S mode has advantages and disadvantages, weigh them and decide what is best in your case.