By Michael | Last Updated
Developer Mode in Windows 10 allows users to install apps from outside the Microsoft Store and use advanced development tools. It’s essential for developers building and testing Windows apps. Here's how to turn Developer Mode on or off—both through Settings and the command line.
Step 1: Open Settings.
Step 2: Choose Update & security.
Step 3: Select For developers, toggle on the switch for Developer mode and tap Yes in the prompt to confirm your action. Enabling Developer Mode may require installing additional developer tools. Ensure you're connected to the internet.
Similarly, to disable developer mode, choose For developers and toggle off Developer mode switch.
If you prefer using the command line or need to enable Developer Mode remotely or through scripts, here’s how:
Step 1: Open PowerShell as Administrator.
Step 2: Run the following command: reg add "HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\AppModelUnlock" /t REG_DWORD /f /v "AllowDevelopmentWithoutDevLicense" /d "1"
This enables Developer Mode by modifying the registry key responsible for app sideloading and developer features.
Step 3: If you want to disable the developer mode, run the command line: reg add "HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\AppModelUnlock" /t REG_DWORD /f /v "AllowDevelopmentWithoutDevLicense" /d "0"
This command sets the registry value back to 0, which disables Developer Mode and turns off related development features.
1. What is Developer Mode in Windows 10?
Developer Mode allows: installing apps from any source (sideloading); access to extra diagnostic and debugging tools; remote device deployment and file system access. It works on Windows 10 Pro, Education or Enterprise version.
2. Is Developer Mode Safe?
While Developer Mode is intended for development and testing, it can expose your device to risks if you install apps from untrusted sources. You should think twice to turn it on.
3. Can’t enable developer mode in Windows 10, what to do?
If you can’t enable Developer Mode in Windows 10 or find Developer Mode button is greyed out, you can go to check system restrictions, group policy settings or the Windows 10 edition.
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