Continuing the tradition of previous versions, Microsoft provides two editions of its flagship operating system, Windows 11: Home and Professional. The Home edition is targeted towards consumers, whereas the Pro edition is tailored for business usage.
While Windows 11 Pro may appear more appealing with its extra features, the decision to upgrade may not be worthwhile based on individual requirements. Let's explore the offerings of Windows 11 Home and Windows 11 Pro to better understand their distinctions.
Overall Findings
| Feature | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | $139 to purchase | $199 to purchase |
| Upgrade to Pro | Additional $99 | Not applicable |
| Windows Store | Home edition specific | Home edition specific |
| Windows Hello | Available | Available |
| Windows Package Manager | Not available | Available |
| Additional security features | Not specified | Available |
| Built-in virtual tools | Not specified | Available |
| Azure Active Directory | Not available | Can join an Azure AD Domain |
| CPU and RAM support | Standard support | Higher support |
Windows 11 Home and Pro editions share many common features, allowing users to benefit from upgrades such as Widgets, Snap Layouts, and the redesigned Taskbar, regardless of the version chosen.
The primary distinction between the two versions lies in the built-in features, with Windows 11 Pro offering exclusive security and virtualization features not available in Windows 11 Home. However, it's important to note that most of these tools are primarily relevant to system administrators, meaning average users can still enjoy essential functionality even without opting for the Pro version.
Security: Windows 11 Pro Offers Additional Features
| Security Feature | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Device encryption | Available | Not specified |
| Firewall and network protection | Available | Not specified |
| Parental controls | Available | Not specified |
| Secure Boot | Available | Not specified |
| Windows Defender Antivirus | Available | Not specified |
| BitLocker encryption | Not available | Available |
| Windows Information Protection | Not available | Available |
| All Windows 11 Home security features | Not specified | Available |
Windows 11 Home provides ample protection for the majority of users, but the Pro edition offers exclusive security features that may be of interest to some individuals. The first notable feature is BitLocker encryption, which allows users to encrypt their drive's data. While device encryption is available in the Home edition, the Pro edition offers more advanced setup options, including the ability to encrypt individual drives on the PC.
The second significant security distinction is Windows Information Protection (WIP), primarily tailored for business users. WIP serves as a data loss prevention tool, helping prevent sensitive data leakage within a company environment.
Management Features: Windows 11 Pro Includes Exclusive Admin Tools
| Feature | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Active Directory Join | Can't join an Active Directory | Azure Active Directory Domain Join |
| Remote Desktop Support | Requires a third-party app for support | Not specified |
| Device Management Tools | Not specified | Access to tools like Group Policy, Enterprise State Roaming, and more |
Windows 11 Pro offers a range of exclusive device management tools that cater to business needs. These tools are not available in Windows 11 Home as they are primarily designed for organizational use. Here are some of the key management features offered in Windows 11 Pro:
- Enterprise State Roaming: A synchronization tool that allows users to sync settings across multiple Windows devices. It requires an Azure AD subscription.
- Windows Update for Business: An administrative tool that ensures Windows devices within an organization are up-to-date with the latest security patches and features.
- Group Policy: A longstanding Windows feature that enables administrators to set system-wide restrictions and policies for user accounts.
- Mobile Device Management: Allows IT technicians to remotely manage security measures and business applications on Windows devices, including laptops, desktops, phones, and other devices, while safeguarding user data.
- Dynamic Provisioning: This tool facilitates the application of configuration settings to Windows client devices. Provisioning packages can be created using the Windows Configuration Designer app, which is available through the Microsoft Store.
- Assigned access: Limits user access and customizes the user interface by defining which applications are accessible.
- Kiosk mode: Similar to Assigned access, Kiosk mode allows administrators to restrict users to a specific set of applications on Windows-based devices, providing a controlled and limited environment.
These features provide IT administrators with greater control and flexibility in managing and securing Windows devices within an organizational context.
Virtualization and Remote Desktop: Windows 11 Pro Lets You Create Virtual Machines
| Feature | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Active Directory Join | Can't join an Active Directory | Azure Active Directory Domain Join |
| Remote Desktop Support | Requires a third-party app | Not specified |
| Device Management Tools | Not specified | Access to tools like Group Policy, Enterprise State Roaming, and more |
Windows 11 Pro builds upon the virtualization tools present in Windows 10, distinct from the highly promoted Virtual Desktops feature in Windows 11. The enhanced virtualization tools in Windows 11 Pro encompass the following:
- Hyper-V: This built-in functionality allows users to create virtual machines, making it possible to run different operating systems alongside the host OS. Hyper-V is particularly beneficial for running other OSs without risking harm to the main system. While Windows 11 Home does not support Hyper-V, third-party software can offer similar capabilities.
- Windows Sandbox: Similar in concept to Hyper-V, Windows Sandbox enables the creation of an isolated instance of Windows 11 itself. This temporary Windows environment is completely segregated from the rest of the system, providing a secure space for testing applications without the fear of impacting the main system. However, it should be noted that Windows Sandbox is limited to creating instances of Windows 11 only.
- Remote Desktop: This feature facilitates remote access to your desktop from another device, such as a phone or tablet. With Remote Desktop, users can remotely control and interact with their desktop, offering convenient access from different locations.
These expanded virtualization tools in Windows 11 Pro offer users advanced capabilities for creating virtual machines, isolating testing environments, and accessing their desktop remotely.
System Requirements: Pro Has Higher Upper Limits.
| Hardware Support | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| RAM Limit | 128GB | 2TB |
| CPU Support | Supports one CPU | Supports two CPUs |
| Core Limit | 64 cores | 128 cores |
Windows 11 Home and Pro have identical minimum system requirements, meaning you don't need more powerful hardware specifically for the Pro edition. However, there are differences in high-end system specifications.
Windows 11 Home has a maximum memory limit of 128GB of RAM, while Pro supports up to 2TB. Additionally, Windows 11 Home is limited to utilizing one CPU and 64 cores, whereas Pro allows for two CPUs and a maximum of 128 cores. It's important to note that these upper limits exceed the capabilities of most machines, but they are worth considering if you are working with a high-end PC.
Final Conclusion: Windows 11 Pro is Better but Has Niche Demand
While Windows 11 Pro may seem like a more enticing option, for most individuals, the upgrade may not be necessary. Windows 11 Home is a robust operating system that shares the majority of features with Windows 11 Pro.
Price is another factor to consider. Windows 11 Pro is priced at $199, which is $60 higher than the $139 cost of Windows 11 Home. Additionally, if you initially purchase Windows 11 Home but later decide to upgrade to Pro, the upgrade fee is $99, resulting in an additional premium.
Unless you specifically require the advanced features and heightened security offered by Windows 11 Pro in a corporate or security-focused environment, it is generally recommended to start with Windows 11 Home and consider upgrading to Pro only if the need arises.