If you want to develop for the Windows operating system, Windows 11 allows you to enable Developer Mode. In this guide, we will discuss how to enable or disable Developer Mode in Windows 11 to transform a PC into a development environment suitable for writing and building software.
To develop a Windows program, you need to use Visual Studio on your computer. Additionally, to use Visual Studio and test your code on your Windows device, Developer Mode must be enabled. Here’s how you can do it.
How to Enable Developer Mode in Windows 11
Developer Mode is disabled by default on the Windows operating system. You may never need Developer Mode enabled if you’re using Windows 11 in a typical environment for tasks like browsing the web, reading emails, or running productivity programs.
However, if you’re a developer who wants to write software and create tools, you can enable Developer Mode to sideload apps and access additional development features.
To enable Developer Mode in Windows 11, follow the steps below:
1. Click on the Windows icon to open the Start Menu and click on Settings as shown in the image below. Alternatively, press Win + I to open Windows Settings.
2. Next, click on the Privacy & Security tab from the left panel of the Settings window.
3. Select the For Developers options to the right of your screen.
4. Now, locate the Developer Mode section and Turn On the toggle switch.
5. When you do this, a notification will appear, warning you that enabling Developer Mode will allow the installation and running of apps from outside the Microsoft Store. This could expose your device and personal data to security risks or potentially harm your device. Click Yes to proceed.
6. You should also enable Device Portal and Device discovery to install development packages on your Windows 11 PC.
7. When you enable the Device Portal and Device Discovery options, you have to install these packages on Windows 11. To confirm click on Yes. Depending on your computer’s connection speed, the installation may take some time.
8. Once turned on, you can set a username and password for the authentication of the users wishing to connect via Device Portal.
9. Finally, click on Apply to confirm.
How to Disable Developer Mode in Windows 11
Developer Mode in Windows 11 is a useful feature for developers, enabling them to sideload apps and access advanced development tools.
However, if you no longer need these features or are concerned about potential security risks, disabling Developer Mode is a simple process. If, for any reason, you wish to turn off Developer Mode on Windows 11, here’s how you can do it.
1. Click on Start Menu and click on Settings.
2. Next, click on the Privacy & Security tab from the Settings window and select the For Developers options present to the right of your screen.
3. Now, locate the Developer Mode section and Turn Off the toggle switch.
This is how you can easily enable and disable Developer Mode on Windows 11. I hope you found this article helpful! If you have any suggestions or questions, feel free to leave them in the comments section below.
