The Surface Go is Microsoft’s compact and affordable tablet, designed for portability and everyday tasks. Many users wonder if they can install the full version of Windows 10 on a Surface Go, especially if they want to move away from Windows 10 in S mode. This article will explore the possibilities, challenges, and considerations for installing Windows 10 on your Surface Go.
Understanding The Surface Go And Its Operating System
The Surface Go ships with Windows 10 in S mode. S mode is a locked-down version of Windows that only allows you to install apps from the Microsoft Store. This limitation enhances security and improves battery life, but it also restricts software compatibility.
What Is Windows 10 In S Mode?
Windows 10 in S mode is designed to offer a streamlined and secure user experience. It prevents the installation of applications from outside the Microsoft Store, reducing the risk of malware and ensuring that all software is verified and optimized for Windows. This results in faster boot times, improved performance, and better battery life.
Benefits And Drawbacks Of S Mode
The main benefit of S mode is its security. By limiting app installations to the Microsoft Store, it significantly reduces the risk of viruses and malware. Additionally, S mode offers improved battery life and faster performance due to the optimized nature of the installed applications.
However, the major drawback of S mode is its restriction on software compatibility. You can only use apps available in the Microsoft Store, which might exclude some of your favorite or essential programs. For users who rely on specific software not found in the store, S mode can be quite limiting.
Switching Out Of S Mode On Surface Go
Before considering a full Windows 10 installation, it’s important to understand how to switch out of S mode. Switching out of S mode is free and permanent. Once you switch, you cannot revert back to S mode.
How To Switch Out Of S Mode
To switch out of S mode, you need to visit the Microsoft Store. Search for “Switch out of S mode” or simply “S mode” in the search bar. You will find an option to switch out of S mode. Clicking “Get” will initiate the process. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the switch.
Consequences Of Switching Out Of S Mode
Switching out of S mode allows you to install applications from any source, not just the Microsoft Store. This provides greater flexibility in terms of software compatibility. However, it also means you are responsible for the security of your device. You will need to be more vigilant about installing software from trusted sources and ensuring that your device is protected by antivirus software.
Installing The Full Version Of Windows 10 On A Surface Go
While the Surface Go can run the full version of Windows 10 after switching out of S mode, sometimes users want to perform a clean installation or upgrade to a specific edition. It is possible to install the full version of Windows 10 on a Surface Go, but there are specific considerations.
Preparing For The Installation
Before you begin, make sure you have a few things in order:
- A valid Windows 10 license key: You will need this to activate Windows after the installation.
- A USB drive (at least 8 GB): This will be used to create a bootable Windows 10 installation media.
- The Windows 10 Media Creation Tool: Download this from the Microsoft website.
- Backup your data: Back up all your important files and data before proceeding. This process will erase everything on your Surface Go.
- Surface Go drivers: Download the latest drivers for your Surface Go from the Microsoft website. You will need these after installing Windows 10 to ensure all hardware components function correctly.
Creating A Bootable USB Drive
Use the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool to create a bootable USB drive. Run the tool, accept the license terms, and choose the option to “Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file) for another PC.” Follow the on-screen instructions to select your language, edition, and architecture (usually 64-bit). Choose “USB flash drive” as the media to use and select your USB drive. The tool will then download the necessary files and create the bootable USB drive.
Booting From The USB Drive
Once the bootable USB drive is ready, you need to boot your Surface Go from it. Here’s how:
- Turn off your Surface Go.
- Press and hold the volume-down button.
- Press and release the power button.
- Continue holding the volume-down button until the Surface logo appears.
- Release the volume-down button. The Surface Go should boot from the USB drive.
Installing Windows 10
After booting from the USB drive, the Windows 10 installation process will begin. Follow the on-screen instructions. When prompted, choose the “Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)” option. This will allow you to format the existing drive and perform a clean installation. Be very careful during this step, as you can accidentally delete the wrong partition. Select the primary partition and click “Format” before proceeding with the installation.
Installing Drivers
After Windows 10 is installed, you need to install the drivers for your Surface Go. This is essential for ensuring that all hardware components, such as the touchscreen, Wi-Fi, and camera, function correctly. Locate the driver package you downloaded earlier and run the installer. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the drivers.
Potential Issues And Troubleshooting
Installing Windows 10 on a Surface Go can sometimes present challenges. Here are some potential issues and how to troubleshoot them:
Driver Compatibility
Sometimes, drivers may not install correctly or may be outdated. Ensure you have the latest drivers from the Microsoft website. If you encounter issues, try installing the drivers in compatibility mode. Right-click the driver installer, select “Properties,” go to the “Compatibility” tab, and check the box that says “Run this program in compatibility mode for.” Select an older version of Windows from the dropdown menu and try installing the driver again.
Boot Issues
If your Surface Go fails to boot from the USB drive, ensure that the USB drive is properly formatted and that the BIOS settings are configured to boot from USB. You might need to adjust the boot order in the UEFI settings. To access the UEFI settings, turn off your Surface Go, press and hold the volume-up button, and press and release the power button. Continue holding the volume-up button until the UEFI settings appear.
Activation Problems
If you encounter problems activating Windows 10, ensure that you have a valid product key. If you have a digital license linked to your Microsoft account, make sure you are signed in with the same account during the activation process. If you continue to experience issues, contact Microsoft support for assistance.
Performance Issues
The Surface Go is not a high-performance device, so installing the full version of Windows 10 might impact performance, especially if you run demanding applications. Close unnecessary applications and processes to free up resources. Consider upgrading the RAM or storage if possible (though this is not typically user-upgradeable on Surface devices).
Alternatives To Installing Full Windows 10
If you’re hesitant about installing the full version of Windows 10 or encounter difficulties, consider these alternatives:
Using Windows 10 In S Mode With Microsoft Store Apps
Explore the Microsoft Store for alternative apps that meet your needs. Many popular programs have versions available in the store that are optimized for Windows 10 in S mode. This can provide a secure and efficient experience without the need to switch out of S mode.
Using Web Apps
Many applications are now available as web apps, which can be accessed through a web browser. Web apps offer a convenient way to use software without installing anything on your device. This can be a good option for users who need access to specific applications that are not available in the Microsoft Store.
Conclusion
Installing Windows 10 on a Surface Go is possible and can provide greater flexibility in terms of software compatibility. However, it is important to be aware of the potential challenges and considerations, such as driver compatibility, activation issues, and performance limitations. By carefully following the steps outlined in this article and taking the necessary precautions, you can successfully install Windows 10 on your Surface Go and enjoy a customized computing experience. Remember to always back up your data before making any major changes to your system. Ultimately, deciding whether or not to install the full version of Windows 10 on your Surface Go depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Can I Install Windows 10 On A Surface Go?
Yes, you absolutely can install Windows 10 on a Surface Go. However, it’s crucial to understand that the base model Surface Go comes with Windows 10 in S mode. This S mode restricts you to only installing apps from the Microsoft Store, which can be limiting. To install the full version of Windows 10 (and thus install any compatible Windows software), you’ll need to switch out of S mode.
Switching out of S mode is a one-way process. Once you’ve done so, you cannot go back to Windows 10 in S mode. While this unlocks a wider range of software possibilities, it also means you will be more vulnerable to malware and will need to be diligent about your security practices, such as installing a reputable antivirus program and being cautious about the websites you visit and the files you download.
What Are The System Requirements For Windows 10 On A Surface Go?
The Surface Go generally meets the minimum system requirements for Windows 10. Windows 10 requires at least 1 GHz processor, 1 GB of RAM (for 32-bit) or 2 GB of RAM (for 64-bit), 16 GB of hard drive space (for 32-bit) or 20 GB (for 64-bit), and a DirectX 9 compatible graphics card. The Surface Go specifications typically exceed these minimums.
However, keep in mind that performance will vary depending on the specific Surface Go model and what tasks you are performing. Models with less RAM or storage may struggle with resource-intensive applications or multitasking. Check your specific Surface Go model’s specifications to ensure it meets your needs and consider the 64-bit version of Windows 10 for better performance.
How Do I Switch My Surface Go Out Of S Mode?
Switching out of S mode is a straightforward process performed through the Microsoft Store. Open the Microsoft Store app on your Surface Go. Then, search for “Switch out of S mode” or similar phrases. The store should direct you to a page that explains the process and provides a “Get” button.
Clicking the “Get” button will start the process of switching out of S mode. The process is automatic and requires a Microsoft account. Once completed, your Surface Go will be running the full version of Windows 10 Home or Windows 10 Pro depending on your original installation. It’s important to be connected to the internet throughout the entire process.
Will Switching Out Of S Mode Improve Performance On My Surface Go?
Switching out of S mode itself won’t directly improve performance. S mode’s restrictions primarily affect which applications you can install. The benefit comes from being able to install a wider range of software that might be more optimized for your specific tasks than the apps available in the Microsoft Store.
However, running more resource-intensive applications that aren’t optimized for the Surface Go’s hardware could potentially decrease performance. Carefully consider the software you intend to install after switching out of S mode, and avoid installing unnecessary programs that could bog down your system. Only install the applications you actually need.
What Should I Back Up Before Installing Windows 10 On My Surface Go?
Before making any significant changes to your Surface Go, including switching out of S mode or performing a clean installation of Windows 10, it’s essential to back up your important data. This includes documents, photos, videos, music, and any other files you can’t afford to lose.
You can back up your files to an external hard drive, a USB flash drive, or a cloud storage service like OneDrive. OneDrive integration makes it easy to back up files stored in your Documents, Pictures, and Desktop folders automatically. Regardless of the method you choose, verifying that the backup is successful before proceeding is highly recommended.
What Are The Risks Of Switching Out Of S Mode On My Surface Go?
The primary risk of switching out of S mode is increased vulnerability to malware and security threats. Windows 10 in S mode is designed to be more secure by only allowing apps from the Microsoft Store, which are vetted by Microsoft. Once you switch out of S mode, you can install software from any source, including potentially malicious websites or untrusted software developers.
Therefore, you’ll need to take responsibility for your Surface Go’s security by installing a reputable antivirus program, keeping your software up to date, and being cautious about the websites you visit and the files you download. Regularly scanning your system for malware and practicing safe browsing habits are crucial for protecting your device.
How Much Storage Space Does Windows 10 Require On The Surface Go?
Windows 10 requires at least 16 GB of storage space for the 32-bit version and 20 GB for the 64-bit version. Given that the Surface Go often comes with limited storage space, especially on the base models, this can be a significant consideration.
After installing Windows 10, you’ll also need additional space for your applications, documents, and other files. Consider a Surface Go model with sufficient internal storage or utilize a microSD card to expand your storage capacity if you plan to install numerous applications or store a large amount of data. Managing your storage effectively is crucial for maintaining optimal performance.