How to upgrade from Windows 11 Home to Pro without overspending

Upgrading from Windows 11 Home to Pro is straightforward but can be costly if not done carefully. Users need a product key, which can be from an old version of Windows 10 or 11. Microsoft no longer allows keys from Windows 7 or 8 for upgrades. To upgrade, go to Settings > System > Activation, enter the Pro product key, or purchase an upgrade for $99 from the Microsoft Store. After upgrading, a digital license is linked to the hardware, allowing for easy reinstallation without needing the key again. If reinstalling Windows, users should select Windows 11 Pro during setup and avoid entering a product key. If the system reverts to Home, a generic Pro key can be used to restore the upgrade, as long as the hardware has a digital license for Pro.