Upgrade Windows 10 Home to Pro - A Step-by-Step Guide
Understanding Windows 10 Home vs. Pro
The majority of newly purchased personal computers are pre-installed with Windows 10 Home. However, an upgrade to Windows 10 Pro is available for purchase directly through the Windows 10 operating system.
Users who previously utilized Professional versions of either Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 were automatically transitioned to Windows 10 Professional during the upgrade process.
Benefits of Upgrading to Windows 10 Pro
Opting for the Professional edition of Windows 10 unlocks a suite of advanced functionalities. These features are particularly beneficial for power users and business environments.
Key advantages include BitLocker drive encryption, which enhances data security. Furthermore, integrated Hyper-V virtualization capabilities are provided.
The Pro version also incorporates a built-in remote desktop server. This allows for remote access to the computer. Additional business-focused features, such as the ability to join a domain, are also included.
- BitLocker Drive Encryption: Protects your data with robust encryption.
- Hyper-V Virtualization: Enables the creation and management of virtual machines.
- Remote Desktop Server: Facilitates secure remote access.
- Domain Join: Allows integration with a network domain.
Understanding the Cost and Process of Upgrading to Windows 10 Pro
Related: Evaluating the Benefits of a Windows 10 Professional Upgrade
In the United States, the cost to upgrade to Windows 10 Professional is $99.99. Pricing in other regions is determined by Microsoft, but is generally aligned with this figure.
The upgrade can be conveniently purchased directly through the Windows Store, functioning similarly to acquiring applications, music, or films. Following the purchase, your Windows 10 installation will be automatically updated to the Professional edition.
Licensing is tied to a single PC. If you initially bought a retail Windows 10 Home license, the Pro upgrade is only valid on that specific computer. The original Home license can be transferred, but the Pro upgrade remains linked to the initial machine.
For those building a custom PC and purchasing a Windows 10 license independently, directly buying Windows 10 Professional is more economical. Microsoft offers Windows 10 Home for $119 and Windows 10 Professional for $200.
Upgrading from Home to Pro incurs a total cost of $220, and the upgrade component isn't transferable to another PC. This consideration is only relevant if you didn't purchase a PC pre-installed with Windows 10 Home.
It’s important to note that upgrading from Windows 10 Home to Windows 10 Enterprise necessitates a full reinstallation using an Enterprise product key. Furthermore, an Ultimate edition, offering Enterprise features to Home users like those available in Windows 7 and Vista, does not exist for Windows 10.
Key Considerations for Upgrading
- Cost Comparison: Direct purchase versus upgrade.
- License Restrictions: The upgrade is non-transferable.
- Enterprise Edition: Requires a full reinstallation.
Choosing the right path depends on your specific needs and whether you are upgrading an existing system or building a new one. Carefully evaluate the costs and limitations before proceeding.
Upgrading From Windows 10 Home to Pro: A Step-by-Step Guide
Initiating the upgrade process requires accessing the Settings application. This can be done by opening either the Start menu or the Start screen and subsequently selecting "Settings".
Within the Settings app, navigate to "Update & security", then choose "Activation". The currently installed edition of Windows 10 will be displayed on this screen.
Purchasing the Upgrade
To transition from Windows 10 Home to Windows 10 Professional, locate and click the "Go to Store" button within the Activation pane.
This action will launch the Windows Store application, directing you to a dedicated "Upgrade to Windows 10 Pro" page. From this point, the upgrade can be purchased for $99.99, similar to any other purchase made through the Store.
You will be prompted to enter your Microsoft account credentials and provide the necessary payment information to complete the transaction.
Using a Product Key
Alternatively, if you possess a valid Windows 10 Pro product key, you can select the option "I have a Windows 10 Pro product key" and input the key to activate the upgrade.
Following key entry, the upgrade process will commence automatically.
Is Windows 10 Pro Necessary?
For many users, the advanced features offered by Windows 10 Pro are not essential. Functionality such as Hyper-V virtualization and remote desktop access can often be replicated using alternative, third-party software solutions.
However, if features like domain joining aren't required, the most significant benefit exclusive to the Professional editions of Windows 10 is often considered to be BitLocker drive encryption.
BitLocker provides robust data protection through full disk encryption.
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