While Windows 10 Home has everything you need, there are perks to upgrading to Pro. Here are three reasons why you should do so.
To upgrade, navigate to Settings > Update & Security> Activation. Click Change product key and enter your 25-character Windows 10 Pro product key. Then follow the on-screen instructions.
More Control
The Pro edition of Microsoft Windows 10 pro has many tools aimed squarely at system administrators. Some of these are features that average users won’t need, but others can be useful for various reasons.
One of the biggest benefits is the ability to control when updates install. This is important for people who work nonstandard hours, like those working in a restaurant or other service industry. Upgrading to Pro allows you to delay feature and quality updates for a specified number of days, giving you more control over their installation.
The process to upgrade from Windows Home to Pro is simple and quick, although there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, you’ll need a valid product key. This can be found on the bottom of your laptop or in the manuals with your computer. You’ll also need to purchase a Windows 10 Pro upgrade license, which costs $99. Once you have a key, follow this guide to activate your computer and use the new features.
Improved Security
Upgrading to Windows Pro has many benefits, including extra security features. These include BitLocker, which encrypts files and folders to ensure data is not accessible even if the device is stolen, and Windows Information Protection, which helps secure sensitive information. Additionally, the operating system comes with built-in remote desktop client applications and Hyper-V, which allow you to access your computer from any location using an internet connection.
Professional users can also defer updates for specific days, giving them more control over when they are installed. This feature is particularly useful if you work with highly sensitive data, as it can help prevent untested changes from compromising your system.
Other features of Windows Pro that are geared towards businesses, such as domain join, more flexible management, and advanced virtualization capabilities, can help improve productivity in the workplace. These features make Windows 10 Pro ideal for those working in a business environment.
Better Productivity
Some businesses remain reluctant to upgrade from Windows 7 because of the risks involved and reluctance to change decade-old workflows. Upgrading to Windows Pro helps alleviate those fears by allowing you to take advantage of specialized business applications and features that improve productivity. It also makes it easier to sync work between systems and enables virtualization on the device itself through Hyper-V.
In addition, you’ll get faster startup times and more memory for running apps with Windows 10 Pro. It also allows you to defer feature updates and quality updates for a certain amount of time, which is ideal for businesses that want to control when updates occur.
Additionally, Windows Pro provides access to the Microsoft Store for Business version that offers a long list of productivity and security apps. It streamlines some essential computer functions and includes enhanced safety tools, such as device encryption, a device locator, firewall network protection, and antivirus programs that can protect against malware.
More Personalization
If you rely on specialized software applications, it’s worth upgrading to Windows Pro. This operating system is optimized to work seamlessly with your application, ensuring optimal performance and compatibility. Additionally, this edition comes with a built-in virtualization platform called Hyper-V. This feature enables you to run multiple operating systems on the same device, allowing for enhanced productivity and increased security.
Another great feature of Windows 10 Pro is that it allows you to postpone updates until you’re ready for them. This is especially useful if you manage devices in your business and want to ensure everyone has the latest features without disrupting production or workflow.
If you’re considering purchasing a new laptop, desktop, or all-in-one PC, look for a model including Windows 10. This operating system is perfect for professionals and businesses. It offers a range of great features ideal for the workplace, including cloud support, extra productivity tools, and remote access to your devices. It’s also available on a wide range of lightweight ultra-books, rugged mobile workhorses, and premium all-in-ones.
Better Performance
Although most of the Pro features are geared towards business, they can also improve productivity in home environments. For example, the ability to defer feature updates (major revisions that launch twice a year) and quality updates for up to 30 days gives you more control over when your PC will receive new features and bug fixes.
Another benefit for business users is the ability to join a local domain, which allows devices to connect to the same network so they can be managed according to company policies. Home users may not need this feature, but it’s a major business selling point.
While upgrading to Windows 10 Pro is optional for the average user, it comes with a few extra benefits that can make it worth the $99 investment. The key to upgrading is understanding how you use your computer and what you will get from the feature set. If you need to run business software or a gaming computer or want to upgrade to 4K resolution, consider buying Windows 10. If not, stick with the free Home edition.