Upgrade Windows 11 Home to Pro via Microsoft Store

Upgrading from Windows 11 Home to Windows 11 Pro unlocks advanced business and security features, including BitLocker device encryption, Windows Sandbox, Remote Desktop, and Hyper-V virtualization. This guide provides a straightforward walkthrough on how to purchase and perform the edition upgrade directly through the Microsoft Store without losing personal files or reinstalling your operating system.

Prerequisites

Before starting the upgrade, ensure that your PC is connected to the internet, your current version of Windows 11 Home is fully activated, and you have saved all open work.

Step-by-Step Upgrade Process

  1. Open Settings: Click the Start menu and select the Settings gear icon, or press the keyboard shortcut Windows Key + I.
  2. Access Activation Settings: In the Settings window, select System from the left-hand menu, scroll down on the right pane, and click on Activation.
  3. Navigate to the Store: Look for the section labeled Upgrade your edition of Windows. Click to expand it, find the option Upgrade in the Microsoft app, and click the Open Store button.
  4. Purchase the Upgrade: The Microsoft Store application will launch directly onto the Windows 11 Pro purchase page. Review the pricing and details, then click the Buy button.
  5. Confirm Payment: Sign in with your Microsoft account if prompted, select your preferred payment method, and complete the transaction.
  6. Initiate the Upgrade: After the purchase is confirmed, click the Install or Start Upgrade button.
  7. Complete the Installation: Windows will download the required components and begin the upgrade process. Your computer will automatically restart one or more times to apply the new Pro features.

Once the system finishes restarting, verify the upgrade by going back to Settings > System > Activation, where the edition should now be displayed as Windows 11 Pro.