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How to Unrestrict my Surface Laptop SE

No Name? 20 Reputation points
2025-08-11T20:46:23.86+00:00

Title:
Surface Laptop SE blocks EXE downloads and access to CMD/PowerShell

Body:
I recently got a Surface Laptop SE and have encountered several restrictions that I can't explain. The device is not managed by any school or organization, yet I'm unable to:

  • Download or run .exe files
  • Launch Command Prompt (cmd.exe)
  • Open PowerShell (PowerShell.exe)

Whenever I attempt to open CMD or PowerShell, I receive the following message:

"C:\WINDOWS\system32\cmd.exe

Contact your support person for more info."

And similarly:

"C:\WINDOWS\system32\WindowsPowerShell\v1.0\PowerShell.exe

Contact your support person for more info."

I’ve checked system settings and confirmed there’s no visible MDM enrollment or group policy applied. I’m trying to understand:

  • What could be enforcing these restrictions?
  • Is there a way to regain access to EXE files and system tools?
  • Could this be related to AppLocker or another built-in Windows policy?
Surface | Surface Laptop | Performance and maintenance
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Accepted answer
  1. Restee Miranda 615 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-08-11T21:32:07.0333333+00:00

    Hi No Name,

    Thank you for reaching out to the Microsoft Community. Basing on what you have described, your Surface Laptop SE has Windows 11 SE, which is made for schools. Even if a school doesn't manage your device, Windows 11 SE still has tight controls.

    -It stops you from using system tools like CMD and PowerShell.

    -You can only install and run apps from the Microsoft Store (no .exe files).

    -It uses AppLocker to keep these rules in place.

    These limits are part of the OS and can’t be removed through regular settings or admin rights. The last resort will be reimaging or doing a clean wipe/install on your device using a bootable media.

    I hope this clarifies your questions in mind. If you needed more help, just reply to this thread. If the answer is helpful, please click "Accept Answer" and kindly upvote it. If you have extra questions about this answer, please click "Comment.   

    Regards,

    Res

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