Windows 10 S can upgrade to the normal version - but can’t return

Users of Windows 10 S - a version usually for low-cost education devices - can be upgraded to the regular Windows version. — dpa

Windows 10 S - what’s with the S? It’s simple: The S essentially stands for slimmed-down.

This version of Windows is often found on low-cost devices for the education sector, but just because the hardware was cheaper, doesn’t mean you can’t switch to the regular Windows version.

Around since the summer of 2018, Windows 10 S needs just 64 GB of storage space and 4 GB of RAM, and only allows apps from the Microsoft Store to be installed.

If you trust your computer to handle more or urgently need to install software you can’t find in the Microsoft Store, then you can upgrade to the full suite free of charge and without having to reinstall - so long as you’re logged in with a Microsoft account.

However Microsoft says you won’t be able to return to S-mode after switching.

Here’s how to switch: Open the settings, go to “Update and Security/Activation” and select the option “Go to Store” in the section “Switch to Windows 10 Home” or “Switch to Windows 10 Pro”.

Then click the “Get” button on the page called “Turn off S Mode” (or something similar) in the Microsoft Store. As soon as a confirmation message is displayed, you will have a normal Windows 10 version on which you can install programs from outside the Microsoft Store. – dpa