Disabling Test Mode in Windows 10 is a straightforward process that involves running a simple command in Command Prompt as an administrator. By following the steps provided, you’ll be able to turn off Test Mode and get rid of that pesky watermark on your desktop in no time.
How to Disable Test Mode in Windows 10
Disabling Test Mode in Windows 10 involves using the Command Prompt to execute a specific command that turns off this mode. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Administrator
First, click on the Start menu, type "cmd," then right-click on "Command Prompt" and select "Run as administrator."
Running Command Prompt as an administrator is crucial because regular user permissions won’t allow changes to system settings.
Step 2: Execute the Command
Next, type or copy this command into the Command Prompt: bcdedit /set testsigning off and press Enter.
This command tells Windows to turn off the Test Mode feature. Be sure to type it exactly as shown to avoid errors.
Step 3: Restart Your Computer
After the command is successfully executed, restart your computer to apply the changes.
Restarting is necessary for the changes to take effect. Once your computer boots up again, you should no longer see the Test Mode watermark.
Once you complete these steps, the Test Mode watermark should disappear, and your system will be back to its normal operating state without any indications of being in Test Mode.
Tips for Disabling Test Mode in Windows 10
- Always run Command Prompt as an administrator to ensure you have the necessary permissions.
- Double-check the command syntax to avoid any typos that might cause it to fail.
- If the watermark persists after a restart, try running the command again and rebooting.
- Make sure your system is updated to avoid any bugs that might interfere with turning off Test Mode.
- If you encounter any issues, visit the official Microsoft support page for additional help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Test Mode in Windows 10?
Test Mode is a Windows feature that allows you to test software and drivers that are not digitally signed by Microsoft.
Why do I see a Test Mode watermark?
The watermark appears because your computer is in Test Mode, which is intended for testing unsigned software and drivers.
Is it safe to disable Test Mode?
Yes, disabling Test Mode is safe and recommended unless you are actively testing unsigned drivers or software.
What if the command doesn’t work?
Ensure you are running Command Prompt as an administrator and that the command is typed correctly. If it still doesn’t work, check for any updates or seek help from Microsoft support.
Will disabling Test Mode affect my installed programs?
Disabling Test Mode won’t affect your installed programs, but any unsigned drivers or software being tested will no longer function correctly until re-enabled.
Summary
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Execute the command:
bcdedit /set testsigning off. - Restart your computer.
Conclusion
Disabling Test Mode in Windows 10 is a simple process that can be completed in just a few steps. By following the guide above, you can quickly turn off Test Mode and remove that annoying watermark from your desktop. Remember, administrative privileges are required to execute these commands, so make sure you run Command Prompt as an administrator.
If you run into any issues, don’t hesitate to revisit the steps or consult additional resources. For those who frequently test unsigned drivers or software, keeping Test Mode enabled might be necessary, but for everyday users, it’s best to disable it for a cleaner experience. Happy computing!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.