If you’re using Windows 11 in S mode, you may notice that Windows controls which apps you can install and where those apps come from. This can be helpful for security and simplicity, but it can also become confusing when Windows recommends that you use apps from the Microsoft Store.

If you’re searching for how to change my app recommendation settings in Windows 11 S mode, you’re probably trying to find the setting that controls which apps Windows allows or recommends you to install.

The good news is that Windows 11 provides app recommendation settings that let you control how strongly Windows encourages you to use Microsoft Store apps. However, there’s an important distinction: changing an app recommendation setting is not the same thing as switching out of S mode.

In this guide, we’ll explain exactly what app recommendation settings do, how to change them, what happens when you’re using Windows 11 S mode, and how to switch out of S mode if you need to install an application that isn’t available through the Microsoft Store.

Quick Answer: How Do I Change My App Recommendation Settings in Windows 11 S Mode?

To change app recommendation settings in Windows 11:

1. Open Settings.
2. Select Apps.
3. Select Advanced app settings.
4. Find Choose where to get apps.
5. Open the drop-down menu.
6. Select the option that matches your preference.

Depending on your Windows 11 edition and configuration, you may see options such as:

• Anywhere
• Anywhere, but let me know if there’s a comparable app in the Microsoft Store
• Anywhere, but warn me before installing an app that’s not from the Microsoft Store
• The Microsoft Store only

However, if your computer is currently running Windows 11 in S mode, you may not be able to select an unrestricted option while remaining in S mode.

That’s because S mode is specifically designed to restrict app installation to apps available through the Microsoft Store.

What Is Windows 11 S Mode?

Windows 11 S mode is a security-focused configuration of Windows designed to provide a more controlled and streamlined experience.

One of its most important restrictions is that applications are generally limited to those available through the Microsoft Store.

Think of S mode like a gated shopping center.

You can still choose from many stores inside the center, but you can’t simply walk outside and install software from any website.

This restriction can help reduce exposure to certain types of unwanted or potentially unsafe software.

However, it also means that applications you download directly from a developer’s website may not be installable while S mode is enabled.

What Are App Recommendation Settings in Windows 11?

App recommendation settings determine how Windows handles applications that come from outside the Microsoft Store.

Windows provides these settings so users can choose how restrictive the operating system should be when installing applications.

Depending on your Windows configuration, Windows may:

• Allow apps from anywhere
• Warn you before installing apps outside the Microsoft Store
• Recommend Microsoft Store alternatives
• Restrict installation to Microsoft Store apps

These options are especially relevant if you’re using a standard Windows 11 installation.

However, S mode operates differently because its app-installation restrictions are part of the mode itself.

Why Does Windows Recommend Microsoft Store Apps?

Windows recommends Microsoft Store applications for several reasons.

The Microsoft Store provides a centralized location where users can discover and install supported applications.

For many users, this can simplify software installation.

Instead of searching the web for an installer, downloading an executable file, and manually running the installer, you can often install an application directly through the Store.

Microsoft Store apps can also provide a more controlled installation experience.

This doesn’t mean every application outside the Microsoft Store is unsafe.

It simply means Windows is providing a more controlled software-distribution path.

How to Find App Recommendation Settings in Windows 11

The first step is locating the relevant setting.

Here’s how to do it.

Step 1: Open Windows Settings

Click the Start button.

Then select:

Settings

You can also press:

Windows + I

This is one of the quickest ways to open Windows Settings.

Step 2: Open Apps Settings

Inside Settings, select:

Apps

This section contains settings related to installed applications and application behavior.

Step 3: Select Advanced App Settings

Look for:

Advanced app settings

Select it.

This area contains several options that affect how applications are installed and managed.

Step 4: Find “Choose Where to Get Apps”

Look for:

Choose where to get apps

This setting controls Windows’ preference for application sources.

Depending on your Windows 11 configuration, you’ll see a drop-down menu.

What Do the App Recommendation Options Mean?

Understanding the available choices is important before changing anything.

Microsoft Store Only

This is the most restrictive option.

Windows will only allow you to install applications that are available through the Microsoft Store.

This setting is particularly consistent with the philosophy of S mode.

It’s useful if you want a highly controlled software environment.

Anywhere, but Let Me Know If There’s a Comparable App

This setting allows applications from other sources while still encouraging you to consider a Microsoft Store alternative.

For example, if you’re trying to install an application from the web and a comparable Store application exists, Windows may point you toward it.

This gives you more flexibility while retaining some Microsoft Store guidance.

Anywhere, but Warn Me Before Installing an App

This option allows applications from outside the Microsoft Store but displays a warning before installation.

It’s a middle ground between strict Store-only installation and completely unrestricted installation.

Anywhere

This option provides the most flexibility.

Windows won’t restrict application installation based solely on whether an application comes from the Microsoft Store.

However, this setting does not mean Windows disables security protections.

You should still download applications from trustworthy sources.

Can You Change App Recommendations While in Windows 11 S Mode?

This is where many users become confused.

Changing the app recommendation setting does not automatically remove S mode restrictions.

Windows 11 S mode is designed to restrict applications to those available through the Microsoft Store.

Therefore, even if you find the Choose where to get apps setting, you may discover that you cannot change it to an unrestricted option while S mode remains enabled.

This is intentional.

S mode isn’t simply a recommendation setting.

It’s a broader Windows configuration.

Why Can’t I Install an App Outside the Microsoft Store?

If your Windows 11 PC is in S mode, this is one of the most common reasons.

For example, imagine you visit a software developer’s website and download an .exe installer.

You might try to run it, only to receive a message indicating that your PC only allows apps from the Microsoft Store.

That doesn’t necessarily mean the downloaded application is defective.

It may simply mean that Windows is enforcing S mode.

How to Check Whether Windows 11 Is in S Mode

Before changing anything, confirm whether S mode is actually enabled.

Step 1: Open Settings

Press:

Windows + I

Step 2: Open System

Select:

System

Step 3: Select About

Scroll down and select:

About

Look for information about your Windows edition.

If the edition is listed as something such as:

Windows 11 Home in S mode

then S mode is enabled.

This distinction is important because the standard Windows 11 Home edition and Windows 11 Home in S mode don’t behave identically when it comes to application installation.

What Is the Difference Between App Recommendations and S Mode?

These two features are related but not identical.

Feature	App Recommendation Setting	Windows 11 S Mode
Controls app-source preference	Yes	Yes, more restrictively
Can recommend Store alternatives	Yes	Yes
Allows non-Store applications	Depending on setting	Generally no
Designed for controlled software installation	Partly	Yes
Can be changed without leaving S mode	Often	S mode restrictions remain
Requires leaving S mode for unrestricted app sources	Not necessarily	Generally yes

This is the key concept to remember:

App recommendation settings control Windows’ preference for application sources, while S mode imposes a stronger application-installation restriction.

How to Change App Recommendation Settings on Standard Windows 11

If you’re not actually using S mode, changing the setting is straightforward.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Open Settings.
2. Select Apps.
3. Choose Advanced app settings.
4. Locate Choose where to get apps.
5. Click the drop-down menu.
6. Select your preferred option.

Windows will immediately apply the selected preference.

You generally don’t need to restart your computer for this setting.

What If the Setting Is Locked in Windows 11 S Mode?

If you’re in S mode and Windows won’t let you select an option that permits applications from anywhere, this is expected behavior.

The restriction is part of S mode.

You have two primary choices:

Option 1: Continue Using S Mode

If the applications you need are available through the Microsoft Store, you can continue using S mode.

Option 2: Switch Out of S Mode

If you need to install traditional desktop applications that aren’t available through the Microsoft Store, you can switch out of S mode.

How to Switch Out of Windows 11 S Mode

Switching out of S mode is different from changing the app recommendation setting.

It’s also important to understand that switching out of S mode is a one-way decision.

Microsoft’s Windows guidance states that you can’t switch back into S mode after leaving it.

Therefore, don’t make this change casually if you prefer the restrictions and simplicity of S mode.

Step-by-Step: Leave S Mode in Windows 11

If you’ve decided that you need applications from outside the Microsoft Store, follow these steps.

Step 1: Open Settings

Press:

Windows + I

Step 2: Open System

Select:

System

Step 3: Open Activation

Select:

Activation

Depending on your Windows configuration, you’ll see information about your Windows edition and activation status.

Step 4: Find the S Mode Section

Look for an area related to switching out of S mode.

You may see a link that directs you to the Microsoft Store.

Be careful not to confuse this with upgrading your Windows edition.

Step 5: Open the Microsoft Store

Follow the link to the Microsoft Store page for switching out of S mode.

The Store will provide the appropriate option.

Step 6: Select Get

Follow the instructions shown in the Microsoft Store.

Once the process completes, Windows will no longer be in S mode.

You can then install compatible applications from sources outside the Microsoft Store.

Is Switching Out of S Mode Free?

For supported Windows 11 S mode installations, switching out of S mode is provided as a free Windows option.

However, you should verify the exact options displayed on your own PC because Windows configurations can vary.

Don’t purchase a new Windows license simply because you’re being prompted to leave S mode.

Leaving S mode is different from upgrading to another Windows edition.

Can I Go Back to S Mode After Switching Out?

No.

This is one of the most important things to understand.

Once you switch out of S mode, you cannot switch back to S mode.

Therefore, consider what you actually need before making the change.

If your only goal is to install one particular application, first check whether that application is available through the Microsoft Store.

If it is, you may not need to leave S mode at all.

Should You Leave Windows 11 S Mode?

There isn’t one answer that applies to everyone.

It depends on how you use your computer.

Staying in S Mode May Make Sense If:

• You primarily use Microsoft Store apps.
• You prefer a more restricted environment.
• You want simpler application installation.
• You don’t need traditional desktop applications.
• You want to minimize software sources.

Leaving S Mode May Make Sense If:

• You need an application that isn’t available through the Microsoft Store.
• Your school or workplace requires traditional desktop software.
• You need specialized software distributed directly by a developer.
• You regularly install legitimate applications from trusted websites.

The decision should be based on your actual software requirements.

What Happens After Leaving S Mode?

After switching out of S mode, your Windows installation can install compatible applications from other sources.

This gives you more flexibility.

For example, you can download a traditional Windows installer from a trusted software developer and install it directly.

However, greater flexibility also means you need to be more careful about software sources.

Before installing an application, ask:

• Is this the developer’s official website?
• Do I recognize the software?
• Does the download match the software I intended to install?
• Is the application supported on Windows 11?
• Does Windows Security report anything suspicious?

How to Stay Safe When Installing Apps Outside the Microsoft Store

Leaving S mode doesn’t mean you should download software from random websites.

Use basic security practices.

Download From Official Sources

Whenever possible, obtain software directly from the developer.

For example, if you’re installing a popular browser, use the browser developer’s official website rather than an unfamiliar download portal.

Avoid Suspicious “Download” Buttons

Some websites display multiple download buttons, advertisements, or misleading links.

Look carefully before downloading.

Keep Windows Security Enabled

Windows Security provides built-in protection against many common threats.

Don’t disable security features simply to install questionable software.

Keep Software Updated

Old applications can contain security vulnerabilities.

Install updates from trusted sources when they become available.

What Should I Do If Microsoft Store Apps Won’t Install?

Sometimes the issue isn’t S mode.

If a Microsoft Store application won’t install, try these basic troubleshooting steps.

Check Your Internet Connection

A poor connection can interrupt downloads.

Restart Microsoft Store

Close the Store and open it again.

Restart Windows

A simple restart can resolve temporary system problems.

Check Windows Update

Open:

Settings → Windows Update

Install available updates if appropriate.

Check Microsoft Store Updates

Open Microsoft Store and check its application updates.

How to Fix “Your PC Only Allows Apps From the Microsoft Store”

This message is commonly associated with application-source restrictions.

First, check whether you’re using S mode.

Go to:

Settings → System → About

If you see Windows 11 … in S mode, then the restriction is expected.

If you’re not in S mode, check:

Settings → Apps → Advanced app settings → Choose where to get apps

You may be able to change the setting to allow applications from outside the Microsoft Store.

If the option remains unavailable, your PC may be managed by an organization or another system policy may be enforcing the restriction.

Can a School or Work Computer Restrict App Installation?

Yes.

If your Windows 11 computer belongs to a school, employer, or organization, administrators may apply policies that control application installation.

In that situation, changing your personal app recommendation setting may not override the organization’s policies.

If the computer is managed by your organization, contact the appropriate IT administrator before attempting to bypass application restrictions.

Common Mistakes When Changing Windows 11 App Settings

Mistake 1: Assuming App Recommendations Disable S Mode

They don’t.

Changing an app recommendation setting is not the same as leaving S mode.

Mistake 2: Leaving S Mode Without Checking First

Remember that switching out is permanent.

Make sure you actually need unrestricted application installation.

Mistake 3: Downloading Software From Untrusted Websites

More freedom to install software also means more responsibility for choosing trustworthy software sources.

Mistake 4: Confusing Windows Edition With S Mode

Windows 11 Home and Windows 11 Home in S mode are not exactly the same configuration.

Check your edition before troubleshooting.

Mistake 5: Disabling Security Features

Don’t disable Windows security protections just because an installer is blocked.

Find out why the installer is blocked first.

Windows 11 App Recommendation Settings: Quick Comparison

Setting	What It Does	Best For
Microsoft Store only	Restricts apps to Store sources	Controlled environments
Warn/recommend Store alternatives	Allows more flexibility with guidance	Users wanting a balance
Anywhere with warning	Allows external apps with a warning	Experienced users
Anywhere	Allows applications from broader sources	Users needing traditional software
S mode	Strongly restricts application sources	Controlled, Store-focused systems

The exact wording and availability of these options can vary depending on your Windows 11 edition and configuration.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I change app recommendation settings in Windows 11 S mode?

Go to Settings → Apps → Advanced app settings → Choose where to get apps. However, S mode can prevent you from changing the setting to allow unrestricted installation. If you need applications outside the Microsoft Store, you may need to switch out of S mode.

2. Can I install apps outside the Microsoft Store in S mode?

Generally, Windows 11 S mode restricts application installation to apps available through the Microsoft Store. If you need traditional desktop applications from outside the Store, you’ll generally need to switch out of S mode.

3. Can I switch back to S mode after leaving it?

No. Switching out of S mode is a one-way change. Once you leave S mode, you cannot return to it.

4. Is it safe to change app recommendation settings?

Changing the setting itself is generally a normal Windows configuration change. The bigger security consideration is where you download applications from. If you allow apps from outside the Microsoft Store, use reputable and official software sources.

5. Why can’t I change the app recommendation setting?

If you’re using Windows 11 S mode, the restriction may be intentional. A school or workplace computer may also have administrative policies that control application installation. Check whether your PC is in S mode and whether the device is managed by an organization.

Conclusion

Understanding how to change my app recommendation settings in Windows 11 S mode starts with recognizing the difference between an app recommendation preference and S mode itself.

The Choose where to get apps setting controls how Windows handles applications from different sources. On a normal Windows 11 installation, you may be able to choose between Microsoft Store-only installation, warnings, recommendations, or broader application sources.

S mode is more restrictive.

If you’re using Windows 11 in S mode, changing the app recommendation setting generally won’t give you unrestricted access to traditional desktop applications. If an application you need isn’t available through the Microsoft Store, the supported solution is to switch out of S mode.

Before doing that, remember that leaving S mode is permanent. If your current applications meet your needs, there may be no reason to change anything.

If you do leave S mode, take advantage of the additional flexibility responsibly. Download software from trusted sources, keep Windows Security enabled, install updates, and avoid unfamiliar applications.

In short, the right choice depends on how you use your PC: S mode provides a more controlled app environment, while standard Windows 11 provides greater flexibility in where you can obtain compatible applications.