How to Enable Test Mode in Windows 10 and Windows 11

Test Mode in Windows 10 and Windows 11 allows users to install unsigned drivers and applications, which can be helpful for developers or when installing third-party software. This article will guide you through enabling Test Mode on these Windows versions.

What is Test Mode in Windows?

Test Mode allows you to run unsigned drivers and applications that would typically be blocked by Windows security settings. This can be beneficial for software development or testing third-party applications. In Test Mode, a "Test Mode" watermark usually appears on the screen to indicate its activation.

How to Enable Test Mode in Windows 10 and Windows 11

Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
Press Win + X and select “Command Prompt (Admin)” or “PowerShell (Admin).” Running as an administrator is essential as the command requires elevated permissions.
Activate Test Mode.
In the command prompt, type the following command and press Enter:
```
 bcdedit /set testsigning on 
```
This command will enable Test Mode, allowing the use of unsigned drivers.
Restart Your Computer.
To complete the process, restart your system. After rebooting, a message indicating Test Mode activation should appear in the bottom-right corner of the screen.

How to Disable Test Mode

Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
Repeat the steps to open Command Prompt with administrator rights.
Deactivate Test Mode.
Type the following command and press Enter:
```
 bcdedit /set testsigning off 
```
This command will disable Test Mode.
Restart Your Computer.
Restart your system to exit Test Mode. The Test Mode watermark should no longer be visible on the screen.

Benefits and Precautions

Test Mode can be useful if you are a developer or testing third-party applications, but keep in mind that enabling it reduces system security by allowing unsigned drivers and applications to run. It’s recommended to use Test Mode only when necessary and disable it after testing is complete.

Now you know how to enable and disable Test Mode in Windows 10 and Windows 11, which can be handy for testing software and drivers that lack official signatures.