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A feature didn't apply on switch

Last updated: 26 September 2026

Work-mode is designed to never block a switch because one feature failed — it applies what it can and skips the rest. So if the wallpaper changed but, say, the browser didn't open, here's why that happens and what to check.

Common reasons

  • Not supported on this OS/version. Some features only exist on one platform (for example, system proxy and folder redirection are Windows features). Unsupported features are skipped, not errored.
  • Not configured for that mode. A feature only applies if you set it in that profile. Check the profile in Settings.
  • A one-time permission is pending. A few macOS features ask once for permission (for example, changing light/dark asks to control System Events). Approve the prompt and switch again.
  • The target app was already running. Launching a browser profile activates the existing window; it won't force-close what you have open. Work-mode never closes or loses your apps.
  • The target doesn't exist. A wallpaper file, printer, VPN entry, or browser profile named in the config isn't present on this device — Work-mode skips it rather than guess.

See what ran

Open Settings and look at the status of the last switch: each module reports whether it applied, was skipped (and why), or isn't supported here. That tells you exactly which part to adjust.

A skipped feature is normal and safe — it's graceful degradation, not a failure. If a feature you configured is consistentlyskipped and you're not sure why, tell us.

Still stuck? Emailsupport@work-mode.online with which feature and which OS, and we'll help.