How to Enable Retail Demo Mode in Windows 11
Retail Demo Mode in Windows 11 is a built-in display setting that turns a standard PC into a store showroom computer. This special mode automatically clears out your personal files and resets the PC back to a clean screen every time you restart it.
Most everyday users never need this mode because it belongs exclusively in retail stores showing off new laptops and desktops. If you turn it on by mistake, Windows creates a fake store account named “User01” and loops promotional videos.
Open Settings, go to System, then Activation. Click your Windows edition name five times. Select Advanced configuration, then Next to set duration or Off to disable. Click Finish to complete.
How to Turn On or Off Retail Demo Mode in 🪟 Windows 11
Retail Demo Mode Windows 11 is built into your system settings and can be turned on or off through the Activation menu. Open the Settings app by pressing the Win+I, go to System, and select Activation to access the setup options for this store display feature.
- Open the Settings app . You can do this by:
- Clicking the Start menu and selecting Settings.
- Or pressing Win+I on your keyboard.
Learn more about accessing Settings here: Open Settings in Windows 11.
- In Settings, click System on the left side panel.
System in the Settings app - On the right side, find and click Activation.
Windows 11 Activation tile - In the Activation page, click the Windows edition name (like “Windows 11 Pro”) five times quickly.
Windows 11 Activation computer version name - A prompt will appear. Click Change to continue.
Windows 11 change to retail demo - [Admin privileges required] Click the Advanced configuration link to see more options.
Windows 11 Retail Demo advanced settings - If you want, you can set the PC to automatically shut down after a set time. When ready, click Next.
Windows 11 Retail Demo automatic shutdown option - Choose how long you want the Retail Demo to run before the admin account is removed. If you don’t want the admin account removed, toggle the switch to Off.
- If you turn it off, you will be asked to create a password for the admin account.
Windows 11 change to retail demo advanced settings admin account - Finally, click Finish to complete the process.
How to Remove Retail Demo Mode (Turn it Off)
Retail Demo Mode Windows 11 can be removed to switch your computer back to normal personal use through a hidden button in the Activation menu. Go to Settings , open System, select Activation, and click your Windows edition name five times to unlock the removal tool.
- Go back to Settings System Activation
- Click the Windows edition name five times again.
- [Admin privileges required] Click the Advanced configuration link.
- Click the Remove button and confirm your choice.
You will then set up Windows as you like.
Summary
Retail Demo Mode Windows 11 is a built-in feature designed for store display computers that lets customers test the operating system in a controlled environment. When you turn it on, the system wipes personal data and restores default settings automatically every time the computer restarts.
What happens when you enable it? If you run a retail store or computer shop, enabling this mode can help keep demos consistent and controlled.
This action allows normal computer use for everyday tasks. Turning off Retail Demo Mode ensures all features and applications function without demo-specific restrictions.
Windows 11 Retail Demo Mode allows store employees to showcase a computer's features for potential buyers. Users can turn Retail Demo Mode on or off for in-store product demonstrations. This special setup ensures the computer displays its capabilities without displaying any personal user settings, offering a clean demonstration every time.
What is retail demo mode?
Demo mode is usually activated by retail stores on their consumer electronics floor models. The demo mode may also be pre-enabled on the floor model. The purpose of a demo mode is threefold: It demonstrates the features of the unit in question.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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