Windows 11 Home vs Pro: which edition do you need?
Check your installed edition and decide whether you need Pro’s business features before choosing a Windows key.
Last reviewed · Official references linked below
Check your current Windows edition first
Start with the PC you plan to use. Open Settings, select System, then Activation. Note the edition and activation state before comparing keys. A listing for Windows 11 Home and a listing for Windows 11 Pro describe different editions.
Microsoft’s manual Home-to-Pro upgrade instructions require an activated Home installation and a valid Pro key. Microsoft also provides an upgrade through its Store. Follow the steps for your situation in Microsoft’s Home-to-Pro upgrade guide.
Windows 11 Home and Pro compared
Choose an edition around the features you actually need. If this is a work computer, check with the person who manages it before changing the edition or buying a license.
| Your requirement | What to check |
|---|---|
| Remote Desktop | A PC hosting a Remote Desktop connection needs Pro. A Home PC can act as the connecting client. |
| Business management | Pro supports joining a domain or Microsoft Entra ID. |
| Drive encryption | Pro includes BitLocker Drive Encryption. Eligible Home devices can support Device Encryption, so Home does not always mean an unencrypted device. |
Check Microsoft’s Remote Desktop requirements and Device Encryption documentation for the details that apply to your device.
Before choosing a Windows product key
- Write down the installed edition and the edition you want. Resolve a mismatch before attempting activation.
- Read the listing’s device count, region and activation requirements. Ask the seller to clarify missing information before ordering.
- Keep the order record and product description so you can identify what was supplied if you need help.
In SHIDEN’s sample catalog, Windows 11 Home and Windows 11 Pro each have their own edition and requirements page. Compare those fields side by side; a lower sample price does not tell you which edition matches your computer.