FIX: 'Choose where to get apps' option is missing in Windows 11. (Solved)
The "Choose where to get apps" option is available in all versions of Windows 10/11, but is missing on computers running Windows 11 in S Mode, where users can only install apps from the Microsoft Store and can't install apps from other sources.
The "Choose where to get apps" option in Windows 11 allows users to specify where they want to download and install apps from. The recommended option is to download and install apps is from Microsoft Store, but users can also choose to get apps from outside Microsoft Store.
Windows S Mode in Windows 10 and Windows 11 is a special feature that restricts users from running applications that do not come from the Microsoft Store. According to Microsoft, provides a more secure and improved experience for users, as applications from the Microsoft Store are controlled by Microsoft to be more secure and of high quality.
So if the "Choose where to get apps" option is missing from your computer, or if you cannot install third-party applications, you're running Windows 10/11 in S Mode.
To fix the problem and allow Windows 11 to install apps from other sources, go ahead and exit S Mode using the instructions below.
How to fix: The "Choose where to get apps" option is missing on Windows 10/11.
To activate the option "Choose where to get apps" & to install apps from outside Microsoft Store on Windows 10/11, proceed to switch out of S Mode to the full version of Windows 11:
1. Navigate to Start > Settings > System > Activation.
2. Click over the S mode. *
* Note: If you cannot see the "S mode" option, this means that you're running already the full version of Windows 10/11. At such a case, the "Choose where to get apps" option may be disabled by your system administrator.
3. Then click Open Store.
4. At 'Switch out of S mode' screen, click Get. *
* Note: Keep in mind that the switching out of S Mode is a one-way process and it can't be undone.
5. Finally, click Close and you're done!
That’s all folks! Did it work for you?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the 'Choose where to get apps' option missing on my Windows 11 computer?
If the 'Choose where to get apps' option is missing on your Windows 11 computer, it's likely that you're running Windows 11 in S Mode. In this mode, you can only install apps from the Microsoft Store.
What is S Mode in Windows 10/11?
S Mode in Windows 10/11 is a feature that restricts installations to only applications from the Microsoft Store, offering a more secure and controlled environment, as these apps are vetted by Microsoft.
How can I switch out of S Mode to enable installing apps from outside the Microsoft Store?
To switch out of S Mode and enable the installation of apps from other sources on Windows 11, go to Start > Settings > System > Activation. Click on the S mode option, then click Open Store. On the 'Switch out of S mode' screen, click Get. Note that this change is permanent and cannot be undone.
Can I reverse the process of switching out of S Mode?
No, switching out of S Mode is a one-way process and cannot be reversed. Once you switch out, you cannot go back to S Mode.
