Microsoft, with almost every Windows OS launch (starting from Windows 7), launches 2 different versions of the same operating system. A ‘Home’ version and a ‘Pro’ version. While the Home version is the base version that comes with every PC/ Laptop in their OEM version, the Pro version is designed for more business and professional work with more facilities and remote controlling features.

So, simply saying, Microsoft tailored their OS according to the needs of every type of user they have. As per the name suggests, Microsoft has a lot to offer you in the upgraded Windows 11 Pro version than Windows 11 Home version if you’re looking for some more features for your work or business for that matter.

Since most of the PC or Laptop’s OEM OS is Windows 11 Home, if you need Windows 11 Pro, you can upgrade it to Pro from Home easily. In this article, we’ll guide you through the DIY steps on how to upgrade from Windows 11 Home to Pro.

Why You Need to Upgrade Windows 11 Home to Pro?

Precisely, Windows 11 Pro is not designed for anyone and everyone. There are specific facilities in Windows 11 Pro which is not available in Windows 11 Home. We are mentioning a few of the improved, upgraded, and additional features that you’ll get in the Pro version which you’ll not get as a Windows 11 Home user.

Microsoft Remote Desktop

If you’re using Windows 11 Pro, then your PC can host any remote controlling session done by any other PC running Windows 11. It doesn’t matter if the computer you’re using is 11 Home or Pro, you can log in to your Windows 11 Pro from anywhere you want. You’ll not get this hosting ability in the Home version.

BitLocker

You can unlock BitLocker as a feature with tighter security and more flexible control system. In the home version, device encryption normally creates a backup copy associated with your Microsoft account. However, with BitLocker, you can easily save your recovery key in addition to your Microsoft account.

Windows Sandbox

The Windows sandbox is like an intermittent zone where you can have a virtual environment. This is the right option for you if you want to check out sketchy emails that might lead to your privacy being breached. The Windows sandbox creates a virtual space for you to isolate the sketchy stuff without risking your computer.

Hyper-V

This is similar to the Windows Sandbox, except you’ll need a separate license for the pseudo-OS in this system. Hyper-V lets you create a separate virtual space that confines malware and viruses. You’ll get this feature only on Windows 11 Pro version.

More RAM Space

The default Windows 11, Windows 11 Home can support a RAM upto 128 GB. On the other hand, the Windows 11 Pro can use extended RAM upto 2 TB! So, you need to complete heavy work simultaneously, you know which Windows 11 version to opt for.

How to Upgrade From Windows 11 Home to Pro?

Normally, you can upgrade Windows 11 Home to Pro in two ways! Purchase a one-time activation key for Pro and insert it in the Activation Settings section, or you can directly make a purchase of a Windows 11 Pro license key! This is okay, even if you use a different site to purchase the Windows 11 Pro license.

1. Enter the Code in the Activation Settings of Windows

We are providing an easy guide to activate your Windows in the Activation Settings. Follow these steps:

1.   Purchasing the Code for Windows 11 Pro: If you want to buy Windows 11 Pro, you have two options – either buy a Windows 11 Home to Pro upgrade key or just Windows 11 Pro activation key. The full version can work both as an upgrade key and a full installation key.

Can’t differentiate? Let us help you out! So, the Windows 11 Pro upgrade key only works on a PC with a licensed Windows 11 Home OS installed on it. However, you’ll not be able to use it during full installation. Since all PC comes with an OEM version of Windows 11 Home, that’s not an issue!

There is another option for you to choose from is the Windows 11 Pro OEM version. The OEM version is not reusable and is only available for the PC it is getting installed on. Currently at Msckey, the Windows 11 Pro OEM version only for just $18. So, now you know which option is the way to go!

2.   Opening the Activation Settings of Windows: Go to Settings. Once you press it, you’ll find a ‘Settings’ window pop up. On the left side, you’ll find a lot of sections. Choose the first one, that is, ‘System.’ You’ll find all you need there once you get in the ‘Activation’ category.

Another easier step to open the activation settings is to pull up the Start Menu and type “Activation Settings” in the search bar.

3.   Changing your Product Key: On the Activation Settings window, there’s a section written “Upgrade your editions of Windows”, and a drop down menu will appear. There, in the “Change product key”, click the button for ‘Change’.

4.   Entering the Product Key Code: When you click on the ‘Change’ button, a window titled “Enter a Product Key” will pop up. There you’ll find a box to put in your 25-digit key and then click ‘Next’.

If your process is successful, your settings will show you Windows 11 Pro as your OS upon restarting.

2. Upgrade to Windows 11 Pro Via Microsoft Store

In this process, you upgrade your PC directly through the Microsoft Store. For this, follow the steps mentioned below –

1.   Opening the Activation Settings: Go to Settings > System > Activation. Alternatively, you can also type “Activation Settings” in the Start menu and your Activation Settings window will pop up.
2.   Launching the Microsoft App: When you click on the small down arrow beside the section titled “Upgrade your edition of Windows”, you’ll find a section saying “Upgrade in the Microsoft App” and a button saying ”Open Store”. Click on that button.

3.   Purchasing the Windows 11 Home to Pro Upgrade Key: When you click that button, Microsoft Store will open and you can directly purchase the Windows 11 Pro license key from the Microsoft web store.

The activation license key from Microsoft Web Store will cost you about $99.00. Once you purchase it from there, your Windows activation key will automatically be embedded with your Microsoft account. And your Windows 11 Pro will activate instantly.

Thus, this is how you upgrade from Windows 11 Home to Pro yourself, in simple and easy steps.

Conclusion

Windows 11 Pro has a lot more professional features that you might need if you’re looking for an appropriate OS for your business. However, for basic use, Windows 11 Home is more than okay to use. But even if you want to switch to Windows 11 Pro anyway, now you know how to upgrade Windows 11 Home to Pro.

Even though both of the steps are easy to follow, we recommend you follow the first one because you can use it anytime you want, in any kind of situation and on any PC. But if you use the second process, the Desktop needs to have your Microsoft account logged into it. And, do give Msckey a visit as they have sales going on all year!