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If you can’t download Design Space from the Cricut website to your Windows computer, you probably have a Windows 11 machine in S mode. S mode does not allow you to download any software (app) that is not found in the Microsoft Store.

Cricut.com/setup for desktop or laptop can only be downloaded from the Cricut website. There is no legitimate DS app in the Microsoft Store, even though there are many scammy look-alikes.

If you want to keep S mode, you will have to get another device to use Design Space. If you turn S mode off, you can only get it back by resetting your device to factory settings (i.e., you can’t just turn it back on). It’s up to you.

To turn S mode off so you can download Design Space:

Open the Windows start menu (the Windows symbol on your keyboard or bottom taskbar) on your PC and use the following steps:

1. Open the Settings menu. Look for the icon shaped like a gear wheel ()
2. Select the Activation option from the list of settings. Look for the for the checkmark in a circle icon
3. The Activation Settings window will show your system as active in S mode. You will have the option to to turn off S mode by clicking the “Open Store” link to the Microsoft App store.
4. Inside the Microsoft App store, you’ll see a warning message about turning off S mode. Click the Get button to disable S mode.
5. After clicking the Get button, there will be a short pause while your system switches off S mode. After the process is completed, you will see a confirmation window. You are now free to download and install Cricut Design Space (and other apps) on your Windows PC.

What’s next?

Now that you have successfully downloaded and installed Cricut Design Space, and logged in and registered your machine, give yourself a high five. Well done!

When you’re ready, the next step on your crafting odyssey is to start learning the basics of Design Space and how it communicates with your Cricut machine. This article takes you through the basics of DS with a simple practice project you can follow along with.