Windows® 10 S Compatibility with Intel® NUC and Intel® Compute Stick

Documentation

Compatibility

000025096

06/07/2023

The pre-installed operating system has changed from Windows® 10 Home to Windows® 10 Home in S mode for the following products:

Product name Product version before change Product version after change
Intel® NUC Kit NUC6CAYSAL J26847-409 and earlier
J26849-409 and earlier
J26847-410 and later
J26849-410 and later
Intel® NUC Kit NUC7CJYSAL J67993-402 and earlier
J67994-401 and earlier
K15927-402 and earlier
J67993-403 and later
J67994-402 and later
K15927-403 and later
Intel® Compute Stick STK1AW32SC H93326-110 and earlier
H95534-109 and earlier
H93326-111 and later
H95534-110 and later


What is Windows® 10 in S mode?
Windows 10 in S mode is a version of Windows 10 that's streamlined for security and performance, while providing a familiar Windows experience. To increase security, it allows only apps from the Microsoft Store, and requires Microsoft Edge for safe browsing.

How to tell if you have Windows 10 in S mode

  1. Press the Windows + x keys
  2. Select System.
  3. See the Windows specifications section for the current version of Windows installed.

    Windows specifications


How to switch out of Windows 10 in S mode
If you want to install an app that isn't available in the Microsoft Store, you'll need to permanently switch out of S mode.

  1. Press the Windows + x keys
  2. Select Settings.
  3. Go to Update & Security > Activation.
  4. In the Switch to Windows 10 Home or Switch to Windows 10 Pro section, select the Go to the Store link.

    Switch to Windows 10 Home

    Caution
    Don't select the link under "Upgrade your edition of Windows." That's a different process that will keep you in S mode.
  5. On the Switch out of S mode page that appears in the Microsoft Store, select the Get button. After you confirm this action, you'll be able to install apps from outside the Microsoft Store.

    Switch out of S mode

There is a known Microsoft issue that can cause some users to be unable to "Switch Out of S Mode". To obtain the fix for this issue, please  visit the Microsoft Store, select More ...  > Downloads and updates > Get updates. Install all available updates, including Microsoft Store version 11906.1001.24.0 (or later). For more information, contact Microsoft Store updates: Get updates for apps and games in Microsoft Store.

Related topics
Introducing Windows 10 in S mode
Windows 10 in S mode FAQ
Identify Your Intel® NUC
Identify Your Intel® Compute Stick