Multiple Windows license types exist, but the two commonly available to a home user are the retail and OEM varieties. If you visit an online retailer like Amazon Remove non-product link or Newegg , you can find both retail and OEM licenses for sale. All the features of the operating system version are the same for both license types. The difference is that with a retail license, you can transfer the license key to a different PC later on. The process for activating a Windows 10 OEM license is the same as for a retail license.
In exchange for a lower price, you get to use the license key on only one PC, period. Microsoft has historically been kind about such situations, however; you can usually call to reactivate the license after replacing a fried mobo.
But it is an extra hassle. Not all student discounts are reserved for the under set. As mentioned above, license types determine what you can do with Windows—and who can use it, as well. Through the Academic Volume Licensing agreements, schools can purchase access to Windows 10 Education for their students, faculty, and staff. Some make it available only on campus machines. Others will grant a license for use on a home machine. The catch: You have to sign up for at least one course to qualify for campus discounts.
Typical options are usually of the physical education or dance variety swim, ballet, jazz, boot camp workouts, etc. In those cases, your main options are the OEM license outlined above or buying through a reseller detailed below.
Note: If you use this method, also keep an eye out for other software deals through your school. But this approach comes with a salt mine of caution.
Platforms like eBay and Kinguin allow buyers to purchase product keys from third-party sellers. So they come with risk. And that has happened to some people. Customer service is often poor for these kinds of sites too, leaving you high and dry. Fans of this method say many people never run into issues, and in fact urge you to find the keys as cheap as possible usually through eBay to minimize problems. Manage mobile devices as well as PCs. Windows 10 includes built-in protections for your data, equipment, and people, securing business information and personal identities even on lost or stolen devices.
Simple, secure multifactor authentication Windows 10 Pro offers simple, secure multifactor authentication 6 via phone call, text, or the Microsoft Authenticator app for mobile phones and tablets. Stop data leaks before they happen Windows Information Protection 1 WIP prevents accidental data loss by encrypting business data on devices and separating it from personal data.
BitLocker to Go provides the same protection for external and removable drives. Hardware-based defense against startup attacks Windows Defender System Guard 9 uses hardware-based root of trust on modern devices to block startup attacks and prevent them from propagating.
If your user needs fuller access to your domain, we recommend upgrading their Windows 10 Home device to Windows 10 Pro. To learn more about the different version of Windows, view our comparison chart. Businesses are finding they need an added layer of security and manageability as their company moves to remote work.
While we recommend purchasing a device with Windows 10 Pro, sometimes you need a device sooner. In these situations, you have a few options. Learn how to join a new Windows 10 device with Azure AD during a first run. Windows 10 Pro and Windows 10 Enterprise offer an array of powerful features for business needs, all wrapped in a secure package.
This is a full version of Windows We recommend you back up your files before installing. Apps and features may vary by market. Windows Media Center is not supported. Sold separately. You must accept the enclosed License Terms, also at microsoft. Stay informed about special deals, the latest products, events, and more from Microsoft Store.
Available to United States residents. By clicking sign up, I agree that I would like information, tips, and offers about Microsoft Store and other Microsoft products and services. Privacy Statement. Work even smarter Do more, without just working more—with Windows 10 Pro. Windows 10 Pro Download. Wish list. Shop Now. Download USB - English. Add to cart. Free day shipping. Free returns. Select a Microsoft Store location.
Learn more. Windows 10 Pro. Remote Desktop Remote desktop lets you unlock and access your own machine virtually—all your files, folders, and apps—from any device via Internet.
