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Windows 11 vs Windows 10 : should you upgrade?

Windows 11 vs Windows 10 :

Since its debut in 1985, Microsoft’s Windows operating system has evolved dramatically, shaping how we interact with computers. Fast forward to 2021, and Windows 11 arrived as a free upgrade for eligible Windows 10 users, bringing a sleek new design, innovative features, and a promise of better performance and security. But with stricter hardware requirements and a learning curve, is it worth the leap? This in-depth comparison of Windows 11 vs Windows 10 explores every angle—design, features, performance, security, compatibility, and more—to help you decide whether to upgrade to Windows 11 or stick with the tried-and-true Windows 10. Whether you’re a gamer, a professional, or a casual user, this guide has you covered.

2. Design Differences: A Modern Makeover

Windows 11 feels like Microsoft hit the refresh button on its visual identity, offering a modern aesthetic that contrasts sharply with Windows 10’s more utilitarian look. Let’s break down the changes.

2.1 Visual Changes

The first thing you’ll notice in Windows 11 is the centered Start menu and taskbar, a bold shift from Windows 10’s left-aligned tradition dating back to Windows 95. This gives the desktop a cleaner, more balanced feel—think macOS vibes with a Windows twist. The Start menu ditches Live Tiles (those animated squares from Windows 10) for a streamlined grid of pinned apps and recent files, topped with a search bar. Love them or hate them, Live Tiles are gone, replaced by a minimalist approach that some find refreshing and others find less dynamic.

Windows 11 also introduces rounded corners on windows and menus, new icons with a softer, pastel-inspired palette, and a consistent application of the Fluent Design system. Subtle animations and transparency effects (via the new Mica material) add polish, making Windows 10’s sharper edges and flatter icons feel a bit dated by comparison.

2.2 User Interface Updates

Beyond aesthetics, the user interface gets practical upgrades. The Task View button now integrates virtual desktops more seamlessly, and the Widgets panel slides out from the left with personalized info like weather or news—a sleeker take on Windows 10’s News and Interests. The Settings app is reorganized for clarity, though some advanced options still lurk in the old Control Panel, a carryover from Windows 10.

2.3 Customization Options

Windows 11 offers decent customization—like tweaking the Start menu alignment or choosing light/dark themes—but it’s less flexible than Windows 10. You can’t move the taskbar to the top or sides anymore, a feature power users might miss. If you’re someone who loves tweaking every pixel, Windows 10 retains an edge here.

3. System Requirements: What Your PC Needs

Upgrading to Windows 11 isn’t as simple as clicking “update.” Its stricter hardware demands could lock out older PCs that run Windows 10 just fine.

3.1 Hardware Specifications

Here’s how the minimum requirements stack up:

  • Processor: Windows 11 needs a 64-bit CPU with 2+ cores at 1 GHz or faster, limited to Intel 8th Gen+ or AMD Ryzen 2000+. Windows 10 supports older 32-bit or 64-bit CPUs.
  • RAM: 4GB for Windows 11 vs. 2GB (64-bit) or 1GB (32-bit) for Windows 10.
  • Storage: 64GB free space for Windows 11, compared to 20GB (64-bit) or 16GB (32-bit) for Windows 10.
  • Graphics: DirectX 12 with WDDM 2.0 for Windows 11; DirectX 9 with WDDM 1.0 for Windows 10.
  • Display: 720p, 9”+ diagonally for Windows 11; 800×600 for Windows 10.
Specification Windows 11 Windows 10
Processor 64-bit, 2+ cores, 1 GHz+, specific CPUs 32-bit or 64-bit, 1 GHz+
RAM 4GB 2GB (64-bit), 1GB (32-bit)
Storage 64GB 20GB (64-bit), 16GB (32-bit)
Graphics DirectX 12, WDDM 2.0 DirectX 9, WDDM 1.0
Display 720p, 9”+ diagonal 800×600

3.2 TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot Explained

TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module) is a hardware chip that enhances security by managing encryption keys and verifying system integrity. Secure Boot ensures only trusted software loads at startup. Windows 11 requires both, while Windows 10 doesn’t, making older PCs incompatible unless they have these features (common in devices post-2016).

3.3 How to Check Compatibility

Download Microsoft’s PC Health Check app to scan your system. It’ll flag any issues—like missing TPM 2.0 or an unsupported CPU. Alternatively, check your BIOS settings to enable TPM or Secure Boot if your hardware supports them but they’re disabled.

4. New Features in Windows 11: Innovation Unleashed

Windows 11 isn’t just a facelift—it’s packed with features that aim to redefine your computing experience.

4.1 Productivity Enhancements

Snap Layouts let you arrange windows effortlessly by hovering over the maximize button—perfect for multitasking. Snap Groups save these layouts for later. Virtual Desktops now support unique wallpapers per desktop, ideal for separating work and play. Windows 10 offers basic snapping and desktops, but they’re less polished.

4.2 Entertainment and Gaming

The Widgets panel delivers personalized content—think weather, stocks, or sports scores—powered by AI. Android app support via the Amazon Appstore (or sideloading) brings mobile apps to your desktop, a feature Windows 10 lacks. Gamers get AutoHDR for richer visuals in older titles and DirectStorage for faster load times on NVMe SSDs—both exclusive to Windows 11.

4.3 Touch and Tablet Improvements

Windows 11 shines on touch devices with new gestures (e.g., swipe up for Task View), a redesigned touch keyboard with emoji, and better stylus support. Windows 10’s tablet mode feels like an afterthought in comparison.

4.4 Microsoft Store Overhaul

The Microsoft Store in Windows 11 is faster, supports traditional Win32 apps (e.g., Photoshop), and looks more inviting. Windows 10’s Store is clunkier and less versatile.

Feature Windows 11 Windows 10
Snap Layouts Yes No (basic snapping)
Widgets Yes No (News and Interests)
Android Apps Yes No
Gaming Features AutoHDR, DirectStorage Basic support
Microsoft Store Win32 apps, modern design Limited app support

5. Performance Comparison: Speed and Efficiency

Does Windows 11 outpace Windows 10? Let’s explore.

5.1 Boot Times and Responsiveness

Windows 11 optimizes startup processes, cutting boot times on modern hardware—sometimes by seconds. App launches feel snappier too, thanks to better memory management. Windows 10 is no slouch, but it lags slightly on newer systems.

5.2 Gaming Performance

With DirectStorage and improved GPU scheduling, Windows 11 can boost frame rates and slash load times in games like *Forza Horizon 5*. AutoHDR adds visual flair without extra effort. Windows 10 lacks these perks, though it’s still solid for gaming.

5.3 Battery Life on Laptops

Windows 11’s power tweaks—like better sleep states—can extend battery life on laptops by 5-10%, per some reviews. Windows 10 is less efficient here, though the difference depends on your hardware.

6. Security Enhancements: Fortifying Your System

Windows 11 takes security seriously, building on Windows 10’s foundation.

6.1 Hardware-Based Security

TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot protect against firmware attacks and ensure a trusted boot process. VBS (Virtualization-Based Security) isolates critical processes, thwarting malware. Windows 10 supports these optionally but doesn’t enforce them.

6.2 Software Security Features

Windows Defender gets minor enhancements in Windows 11, and integration with Microsoft 365 bolsters cloud-based protection. Both OSes are robust, but Windows 11’s defaults are stricter.

6.3 Privacy Improvements

Windows 11 refines privacy settings with clearer controls over app permissions and telemetry. Windows 10 offers similar options but feels less user-friendly in this regard.

7. Compatibility Issues: What Might Break?

Upgrading to Windows 11 could disrupt your setup if you’re not prepared.

7.1 Software Compatibility

Most Windows 10 apps work on Windows 11, but older software (e.g., pre-2010 tools) might struggle due to missing drivers or stricter security. Test critical apps beforehand.

7.2 Hardware Compatibility

Printers, scanners, or niche peripherals may need updated drivers—or might not work at all if manufacturers don’t support Windows 11. Non-TPM PCs are outright excluded.

7.3 Tips to Ensure Compatibility

Run the PC Health Check app, update drivers via Device Manager, and check manufacturer websites for Windows 11 support. Windows 10 sidesteps these hassles with broader compatibility.

8. Upgrade Process: How to Switch to Windows 11

Ready to upgrade? Here’s what to know.

8.1 Step-by-Step Upgrade Guide

  1. Back up your files to an external drive or cloud.
  2. Go to Settings > Windows Update.
  3. Click Check for Updates; if eligible, select Download and Install.
  4. Follow the prompts—your apps and files should carry over.

8.2 Common Upgrade Problems

Issues like failed installs or driver conflicts can arise. Restarting, updating drivers, or using the Windows 11 Installation Assistant can help.

8.3 Downgrading Back to Windows 10

Within 10 days of upgrading, go to Settings > System > Recovery to roll back, keeping your files intact. After that, you’ll need a clean install of Windows 10.

9. Pros and Cons: Making the Choice

Let’s weigh the benefits and drawbacks.

9.1 Advantages of Windows 11

  • Sleek design with rounded corners and a centered taskbar.
  • Productivity tools like Snap Layouts and Virtual Desktops.
  • Android apps and a better Microsoft Store.
  • Gaming boosts with AutoHDR and DirectStorage.
  • Robust security via TPM 2.0 and VBS.

9.2 Disadvantages of Windows 11

  • High hardware requirements exclude older PCs.
  • Potential compatibility hiccups with legacy gear.
  • Reduced customization (e.g., fixed taskbar).
  • Possible early bugs as a newer OS.

9.3 User Scenarios

  • Gamers: Upgrade for DirectStorage and AutoHDR if your PC qualifies.
  • Professionals: Snap Layouts and security make Windows 11 appealing.
  • Casual Users: Stick with Windows 10 if your hardware’s older.

10. Community Feedback: What Users Are Saying

Windows 11 has sparked mixed reactions. Tech enthusiasts praise its design and gaming perks, with posts on forums like Reddit calling it “a game-changer for multitaskers.” Others grumble about the TPM requirement—e.g., “My 2015 PC still runs fine on Windows 10; why force an upgrade?” Performance gains impress some, while early adopters note occasional bugs (since patched in updates like 23H2).

11. The Future: Windows 11 vs Windows 10 Support

Windows 10 support ends on October 14, 2025, after which it’ll stop getting security updates. Windows 11, as Microsoft’s future focus, will receive ongoing enhancements—think AI integrations or new features via updates like Copilot. Sticking with Windows 10 is fine for now, but long-term, Windows 11 is the path forward.

12. Conclusion: Is Windows 11 Right for You?

Windows 11 brings a modern interface, powerful features, and top-notch security, making it a worthy upgrade for compatible PCs. Gamers, multitaskers, and security-conscious users will love it. But if your hardware falls short or you’re happy with Windows 10’s familiarity, there’s no rush—support lasts until 2025. Check your PC, weigh your needs, and decide if Windows 11’s innovations outweigh its demands.

13. TL;DR: Quick Summary

Windows 11 offers a fresh design, Snap Layouts, Android apps, gaming upgrades (AutoHDR, DirectStorage), and enhanced security (TPM 2.0, VBS). It requires modern hardware, potentially leaving older PCs behind. Windows 10 is reliable, widely compatible, and supported until 2025. Upgrade if your device qualifies and you want the latest; stay put if not.
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How to Reactivate Windows 11 Upon Hardware Changes

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Hardware upgrade of your PC, like changing the motherboard, or even upgrading your BIOS may sometimes deactivate Windows 11. Don’t worry! You can reactivate Windows 11 through a digital license or product key.

In this tutorial, we will take you through the process step by step.

Step 1: Ensure Your Device is Online

Be sure to check first if your PC is already online. This is required by Windows to confirm your activation.

Step 2: Activation Using a Digital License

If you initially activated Windows 11 using a digital license, you must run the Activation Troubleshooter to fix your activation.

Connecting Your Microsoft Account (If Not Already Done)

You have to associate your digital license with your Microsoft account before you can utilize the troubleshooter.

  • Sign in to your Microsoft account on the device.
  • Go to Settings > System > Activation.
  • If your license isn’t linked, click Add an account and log in.

After linking your account, you can use the Activation Troubleshooter in the following ways:

Using the Activation Troubleshooter

If you lost Windows 11 activation after a hardware change, just do the following:

  1. Login as an administrator (Refer to user settings if required).
  2. Click Start and go to Settings > System > Activation.
  3. Click Troubleshoot. The troubleshooter will show an error message if your Windows is not activated.
  4. Click on I changed hardware on this device recently, then click Next.
  5. Type your Microsoft account and password and click Sign in.
  6. From the list of connected devices, check the box next to This is the device I’m using now.
  7. Press Activate.

If you don’t see your device, make sure you’re signed in with the right Microsoft account the one that’s linked to your Windows 11 digital license.

Step 3: Reinstalling using a Product Key

If you hadn’t associated a Microsoft account with your license before hardware change or if you started Windows 11 with a product key, you’ll need to input your key.

  1. Go to Settings > System > Activation.
  2. Click Change product key.
  3. Type your 25 character Windows 11 product key.
  4. Click Next and continue with instructions to reactivate.

If your key is genuine but activation doesn’t work, try reaching out to the key provider support or looking for activation faults.

What if Activation Still Doesn’t Work?

If you continue to have issues with activation, go to Microsoft’s activation error codes support page and methods to resolve them.

Final Reflections

Reactivating Windows 11 after a hardware change is usually straightforward, especially if you have your digital license linked to a Microsoft account. If you have a product key, reentry of the same should fix this issues.

If you still have problems, the Activation Troubleshooter or contacts your windows keys provider support will help get it working again.

Have you ever had trouble reactivating Windows 11? Let us know in the comments!

Windows11 Home Vs Windows 11 Pro

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Windows 11 Home or Pro: which one should you choose?

Hello tech buddies! I’m David, your Ohio IT expert, and I’m here to break down the differences between Windows 11 Home and Windows 11 Pro. Are you confused about which to use? I’ve got you covered. Let’s get down to it, and sort out what’s what, so you can choose the most suitable one for you need.

Windows 11 Home: The Everyday Hero

Alright, so we’ll start with Windows 11 Home. This is the option for most individuals, and for good reason. It’s built for all of the usual things, such as web browsing, streaming your favorite shows on Netflix, or getting into a gaming session with your friends. It’s the dependable sedan of operating systems: nothing much to look at, just a smooth ride that gets you where you need to go.

What You Get:

✔️ A sleek, modern look with all you need.
✔️ Support for gaming, apps, and multitasking.
✔️ Everything the average user needs without the extra fluff.

For the typical user, Home is sweet home. It’s simple, it works, and it will not break the bank. If you’re just in the market for a solid trusty sidekick to handle your everyday digital adventures, this is it.

Windows 11 Pro: A Power User’s Paradise So, if you’re one of those who enjoys lifting the hood and monkeying around—or you just want a few extra tools in your toolbox, Windows 11 Pro might be right up your alley. It puts all the awesome features of Home on steroids and adds some wonderful features that power users, small business owners, and anyone else who wants to have a little more control will love.

Security That Means Business

BitLocker : A biggie. Pro has BitLocker, a virtual safe for your documents. If your laptop is stolen, BitLocker encrypts your documents so the crooks can’t crack them open. Windows 11 Home doesn’t have this, so if you’re working with sensitive stuff—work documents, personal projects, whatever—Pro’s got your back.

On Demand Remote Access

Remote Desktop : So, with Pro, you can remotely sign into your PC. Like, if you’re at a coffee shop or have to just pick up a file when you’re out of the office, this feature is honestly a lifesaver. Home doesn’t have it, so if you’re constantly on the move, Pro might be the way to go.

Virtualization for the Curious – Hyper-V : Tinkerers, developers, and IT professionals, listen up. Pro includes Hyper-V, which lets you virtualize various operating systems on a single machine. You basically convert your desktop into a mini data center. Home omits this feature, so if you’re interested in virtualization, Pro is the way to go.

The Big Question: Which One’s Your Pick?

So here’s the deal: most people aren’t going to notice a gigantic difference. If you’re just lounging with your laptop, browsing Reddit, or playing games a bit, Windows 11 Home is perfectly sufficient. It’s sort of like buying a commuter car, why buy a sports car if you’re not going to race it?
But if you’re a power user, a small business owner, or simply someone who wants that extra feeling of security and flexibility, Windows 11 Pro is definitely worth the upgrade.
It’s like a Swiss Army knife, full of tools you might not use on a daily basis, but boy, are they ever handy when you need them.

My Recommendation:

Stick with Home: if you’re using it only casually. It’s cheaper, and you won’t really miss the bells and whistles.
Choose Pro: if you’re looking for BitLocker security, remote access, or the cool virtualization goodies from Hyper-V. It’s well worth it for the right individuals.

The Bottom Line

At the end of the day, it’s all about what you need. Windows 11 Home is like that trusty friend who’s always there for you, no questions asked. And then there’s Windows 11 Pro, which packs some serious tools for those who need a little extra. So just think it through, think about how you work, and choose what’s right for you, buddy.

Which version of Windows 11 are you using? Comment down and let’s talk!

How to Upgrade from Windows 11 Pro N to Windows 11 Pro ?

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How to Switch from Windows 11 Pro N to Windows 11 Pro

  1. Type Regedit in the Search box, and then right-click the Regedit app from the Best match and select Run as administrator. Click on Yes in the UAC window when you are prompted to continue.
  2. Navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion
  3. Change “EditionID” to “Professional
  4. Change “ProductName” to “Windows 11 Professional
  5. Run setup.exe from Windows 11 install media and perform an in-place upgrade. (With this registry change it should allow you to keep “all apps and files”.)

Note that the EditionID and ProductName registry entries will revert to their old values after a short period of time, so be sure to run the setup right away after you make the changes, if the the setup doesn’t work and still show the old edition, restart your PC and try again.

You can use this similar method to perform any unsupported upgrade or downgrade (for example, switch from Windows 11 Pro to Windows 11 Home). Change EditionID and ProductName to what they should be on the OS that you want to move to, and then launch the setup using that install media.

for Windows 11 Home, EditionID is “Core” and the “ProductName” is “Windows 11 Home

Your operating system will show as “not activated” after the upgrade is complete and you’ll need to provide the right windows 11 key to activate it

How much is Windows 11?

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I’ve been checking around on multiple sites about how much Windows 11 is. I need to activate multiple computers and I don’t want to have to buy them directly from Microsoft because that’s a rip off. From what I’ve read there is a difference between OEM keys and Retail keys. Multiple sources are saying to avoid OEM keys as they often get deactivated. They aren’t intended for distribution and are generated by the manufactures of computers that come with Windows already installed. Retail keys however, are sourced from Microsoft as legitimate retail copies of the software intended for consumers to install onto their personal computers. I’ve seen a lot of people saying to avoid “Grey Market” keys but the arguments are always based on some moral qualms which I don’t really have any moral qualms against not sending even more money to huge corporations by buying directly from them. I don’t want to pirate either as last time I ran some code in command prompt to pirate Windows and it ruined my whole PC. I also run a business and don’t want to be done for piracy. Retail keys are what I’m looking for.

These are the prices I’ve seen for Windows

Edition Type Price
Windows 11 Home OEM $4
Windows 11 Home Retail $30
Windows 11 Pro OEM $7
Windows 11 Pro Retail $35

As you can see, OEM prices are pretty cheap but they come with the risk that you’ll have to buy more because they’re prone to deactivation issues.
Do these prices seem accurate or is there anywhere I can beat those prices for retail keys?
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Upgrade Windows 7 to Windows 10

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Switch from Windows 7 to Windows 10 for free, here’s the trick.

If you’re still using Windows 7, it’s high time to migrate to Windows 10, now that Microsoft has abandoned its old operating system.

Microsoft announced it well in advance: Windows 7 is now completely abandoned. Since January 14, 2020, the operating system no longer receives any technical support. In other words, except for professionals and companies that have subscribed to a paid maintenance program, there will eventually be no more updates for Windows 7, which could pose serious security problems in case of discovery and exploitation of vulnerabilities.

Of course, PCs still running Windows 7 will continue to work “normally”. Released in October 2009, more than ten years ago, this edition is still considered one of the best versions of Windows along with Windows XP: it still has many fans who still praise its merits.

But, in the long run, unless you “freeze” a computer in its current state, there will soon be no other solution than to switch to Windows 10 or adopt another operating system like Ubuntu. Indeed, much must-have software – especially those related to the Internet, such as Chrome or Firefox – now require Windows 10, no longer offering a version or update adapted to Windows 7. In short, it’s a forced march, and sooner or later we will have to resolve to move to Windows 10

How to get Windows 10 for free?

When Windows 10 arrived in 2015, Microsoft offered a free migration to legal users of Windows 7 and Windows 8.1. For quite a long time – until July 2016 – all you had to do was accept the Windows Update offer to upgrade for free.

Since then, the upgrade to Windows 10 has officially become paid. The operating system is actually offered for sale at quite varied prices, depending on whether you buy the boxed version or simply an activation key – you can find some at around ten euros on online sales sites. But, against all expectations, and without promoting it, Microsoft has maintained its free upgrade system. And if the procedure is not automatic, it is still possible to make the migration without a purse, directly at Microsoft. An unofficial method, therefore, but perfectly legal!

In practice, you need to get a dedicated (and free) tool from Microsoft and download an official version of Windows 10 (an Iso image, in fact). Everything is then done automatically, on the PC equipped with Windows 7, by simply following the instructions displayed on the screen!

Be careful though: even if the risk is low – we have performed several upgrades without encountering the slightest problem – it is strongly advised to back up all important personal files on the PC before performing the upgrade, otherwise, you may lose irreplaceable data. This is probably the most painful part of the operation.

Of course, the upgrade is normally reserved for official versions of Windows 7, i.e. versions activated with a valid and legal key – a key that can be found on the label attached to the PC or in the box containing the installation CD, but which can also be retrieved using a utility, if necessary. In principle, you do not have to worry about the key: Windows 10 automatically retrieves it during the upgrade and is activated without delay, transparently. A detail that significantly simplifies the operation.

Finally, it should be noted that this upgrade also works in theory on PCs still running Windows 8 or 8.1. In practice, these are the first to have migrated to Windows 10 at its release.

Which PC for Windows 10?

Obviously, you should not expect to install Windows 10 on an antique PC. Or, more exactly, on a computer that is not powerful enough. In its technical documents, Microsoft requires at least the following hardware configuration:

  • Processor: 1 GHz
  • RAM: 1 GB for the 32-bit version or 2 GB for the 64-bit version
  • Storage space: 16 GB for the 32-bit version or 32 GB for the 64-bit version
  • Display resolution: 800 x 600 pixels

If these characteristics are not very precise – a 1 GHz processor can be very slow or relatively fast, depending on its design… -they are not extraordinary-the minimum definition corresponds to that of an old 15-inch CRT screen-and a relatively modest configuration is enough to run Windows 10. As we’ve seen during our various upgrade operations, a ten or twelve-year-old PC with a decent processor can perfectly host Windows 10. Nevertheless, we strongly recommend a minimum of 4 GB of RAM. And it’s better to use an SSD for the system rather than a traditional hard drive, to gain smooth operation. In any case, the Microsoft update tool checks the hardware configuration before installation.

In practice, it is advisable to have free space (about 10GB) on the hard disk (or SSD) for the installation. And it is even possible to launch the process from a USB key – the use of a burned DVD is also possible, but not recommended because of its obvious slowness, especially since this type of support has almost disappeared today

In addition, it is essential to perform the upgrade on a computer connected to the Internet, to download the upgrade utility, the copy of Windows 10 – as an Iso file – and the latest system updates.

How to download the Windows upgrade tool?

On your Windows 7 PC, with your usual web browser, click on the link below to go directly to the Microsoft page dedicated to the upgrade tool

https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows10

How to Upgrade From Windows 10 Home to Pro

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Upgrade Windows 10 Home to Windows 10 Pro

Windows 10 is available in several different editions, the most well-known being the Home and Professional editions. The vast majority of computers sold in the market are equipped with Windows 10 Home, while Windows 10 Professional is installed on computers intended for professionals and businesses.

computers with the home version have the product key built-in in the bios, so even if you try to reinstall windows 10 pro with a USB thumb drive, this integrated product key always forces windows 10 home to be installed automatically without giving you the choice to choose the version you want, then the easiest solution is to upgrade to the pro version from the System Settings.

The process of upgrading from Windows 10 Home to Professional is done simply, without loss of data: all your applications, settings, and personal files are preserved during the migration to Windows 10 Professional.

Step 1: Buy Windows 10 Pro Product Key :

The product key can be purchased from a third-party seller, it can be sftkey.com or any other legitimate seller, and the key costs between $99 and $20.

You can still use a generic Windows 10 Pro key for free, which can only upgrade to the Pro edition without activation, but this will be enough to make sure the upgrade process works before you buy a new key and find out that your computer cannot be upgraded

According to Microsoft, they are the steps to follow:

  1. Select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Activation.
  2. Under Upgrade your edition of Windows, select Change product key.
  3. Enter the 25-character Windows 10 Pro product key.
  4. Select Next to start the upgrade to Windows 10 Pro