Developer Mode unlocks Windows features meant for building and testing software: installing apps from files outside the Microsoft Store (sideloading), using Device Portal for remote debugging, creating symbolic links without admin rights, and some developer-focused File Explorer and PowerShell options. If a tool, game mod or app installer tells you to “enable Developer Mode,” here’s how to do it in Windows 10, what it changes, and how to turn it off again.
Quick Answer
Go to Settings > Update & Security > For developers and turn on Developer Mode. Click Yes in the warning. On Windows 11, it’s in Settings > System > For developers (or Privacy & security > For developers on older builds).
How to Enable Developer Mode in Windows 10
- Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
- Click Update & Security.
- Click For developers in the left menu.
- Turn on Developer Mode (on older Windows 10 versions, select the Developer mode option button).
- Read the warning about security risks and click Yes.
- Windows may download the Developer Mode package. Wait for it to finish; restart if asked.
You need an administrator account. Tip: type developer in the Settings search box to jump straight to the page.
What Developer Mode Does
- Sideload apps: install .appx, .msix and loose-file apps from outside the Microsoft Store, such as test builds of your own apps.
- Device Portal and Device discovery: optional switches that let you manage and debug the PC from a browser or another device on your network.
- Symbolic links: create symlinks without running as administrator, which some build tools and package managers need.
- Developer settings: the page also offers shortcuts, such as showing file extensions and hidden files in File Explorer, and letting PowerShell run local scripts without signing (in some versions).
In recent versions of Windows 10 and 11, you don’t need Developer Mode just to install trusted .msix apps; sideloading is allowed by default. Developer Mode is mainly needed for unsigned or loose-file apps and debugging.
Is Developer Mode Safe?
It’s safe for developers and people who know what they’re installing, but it lowers some protections. Apps installed outside the Store aren’t checked by Microsoft, so only install files from sources you trust, and turn Developer Mode off when you no longer need it. Many work or school PCs block it with a policy.
How to Turn Off Developer Mode
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > For developers.
- Turn off Developer Mode and click Yes.
Sideloaded apps that aren’t signed may stop working after you turn it off.
Other Ways to Enable It
- Registry: set
AllowDevelopmentWithoutDevLicenseto 1 (DWORD) underHKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\AppModelUnlock. Back up the registry first. - Group Policy (Pro and above): Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > App Package Deployment, and enable Allows development of Windows Store apps and installing them from an integrated development environment (IDE).
Troubleshooting
- The switch is grayed out or says “Some settings are managed by your organization”: a policy blocks it. Ask your IT administrator.
- “Developer Mode package failed to install” (error 0x80004005 or similar): the package downloads from Windows Update. Make sure Windows Update works and isn’t blocked by a metered connection or WSUS setting, then try again. Developer Mode itself usually still works even if the optional package fails.
- Option missing: update Windows 10 to a supported version via Windows Update.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need Developer Mode to use WSL or Visual Studio?
No. WSL and Visual Studio work without it on current versions of Windows, though Visual Studio may prompt you to turn it on for certain app projects.
Does Developer Mode void my warranty or license?
No. It’s a built-in Windows setting.
Will Developer Mode slow down my PC?
No. It doesn’t affect performance.
Where is Developer Mode in Windows 11?
Settings > System > For developers on current versions; Settings > Privacy & security > For developers on early Windows 11 releases.
Summary
- Open Settings > Update & Security.
- Click For developers.
- Turn on Developer Mode and click Yes.
- Turn it off when you’re finished.
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.