Windows 11 Home vs Pro: which one do you need?
Both editions run the same apps and games at the same speed. Pro adds security, remote access and management tools that matter for work and power users.
Updated 7 October 202601What both editions have
The same Windows 11 design, apps, games, Microsoft Store, Windows Security antivirus, device encryption on supported hardware, and the same updates and performance.
02What Pro adds
- BitLocker: full-drive encryption you control, including USB drives (BitLocker To Go).
- Remote Desktop host: connect to this PC from another computer.
- Hyper-V: run virtual machines with Microsoft's built-in hypervisor.
- Windows Sandbox: test unknown programs in a throwaway, isolated desktop.
- Group Policy and domain join: manage settings centrally and join a company network or Microsoft Entra ID.
- More memory: up to 2 TB of RAM, compared with 128 GB on Home.
03Which one should you choose?
Choose Home for everyday use, school and gaming. Windows 11 Home has everything most people need.
Choose Pro if you work from home, handle client data, use Remote Desktop, run virtual machines, or simply want BitLocker. Windows 11 Pro also suits small businesses.
04Already on Home?
You can move to Pro at any time without reinstalling. See how to upgrade Windows 11 Home to Pro.
Products in this guide
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