Windows 11 Pro vs Enterprise: the differences
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Windows 11 is the newest operating system released by Microsoft. It is a follow-up in a series of operating systems after Windows 8 and 10. Windows 11 was released in October 2021 and its big advantage is the fact that if you now have a retail version of Windows 10, you can upgrade for free to Windows 11. Within Windows 11 you can choose between the versions Pro and Enterprise. In this article we discuss the differences between Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise, their features and requirements. At the end of the article you can also find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about Windows 11.
What is Windows 11?
Windows 11 is the most recent operating system from Microsoft. It was released back in October 2021. An operating system (OS), such as Windows 11, will manage all of software that is on your computer. Windows 11 furthermore provides the common service for your computer, like process management and memory. In the next paragraph you can read more about the new features of Windows 11.
What's new in Windows 11?
To begin with, Windows 11 has a different interface. It looks a lot different from Windows 10, and most users find it modern-looking. One of the most important new features, is the full integration of Microsoft Teams into Windows. Teams is now included in Windows 11, replacing Skype. Another new integration are the Android apps. You can download these on Windows 11 via the Microsoft Store and the Amazon AppStore. The gaming experience has also been improved, by the better support of games by Windows 11. Additionally, with the new feature “Snap Lay-outs" you can multitask easier. In this case multitasking means using multiple different applications on your screen at once. You can also create multiple desktops with Windows 11. As mentioned above, Windows 11 comes in two different versions: Pro and Enterprise. In the next paragraphs you can read more about their features and differences.
Windows 11: Features
Windows Information Protection is an important feature security-wise, as it prevents data leaks. Another heavily anticipated feature, is the Windows Hello for Business. This allows you to login with your fingerprint, or face recognition. This was already introduced on multiple smartphones but is now finally a feature on Windows. Windows 11 also has a feature called Remote Desktop that allows you to open your folders and applications from any device. Remote Desktop makes working from home a lot easier. Another feature included in Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise is the virtual assistant Cortana. Usually, Cortana is integrated in Windows 11, you just have to enable it, if you want to use it. You can talk to Cortana, and by doing so, find whatever information you need.
All of the features above are available in both Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise. Enterprise offers some more features, that are not included in Pro such as Secure Score, Azure Virtual Desktop, Universal Print and DirectAccess. Another feature that is only included in Windows 11 Enterprise, is Microsoft 365 Defender. This safety feature gives you extra security, and access to Exploit Guard, Firewall, Antimalware and Credential Guard.
The differences between Windows 11 Pro vs Windows 11 Enterprise
Windows 11 Pro is mainly aimed for professionals and businesses. Windows 11 Enterprise has additional functions, that are mainly useful for IT-companies. As Enterprise offers more features than Pro does, it is a more comprehensive operating system. However, these features are not useful for everyone. Due to the additional functions and features, Enterprise is more expensive than Pro. With that being said, Windows 11 Pro can be considered as the standard option for businesses and will be good enough for most businesses. Windows 11 Enterprise, on the other hand, has more advanced, security options. You can purchase Windows 11 Pro as a separate license, or as a part of Microsoft 365. Windows 11 Enterprise can also be bought as a volume license, or upgraded to from Pro in case you have a Retail version.
Windows 11: System/hardware requirements
These are the requirements for Windows 11 that you should take into account:
- Storage: at least 64 GB
- RAM: 4 GB (or more)
- Processor: 1GHz, with 2 cores or more on a compatible 64-processor.
Windows 11: Frequently asked questions
For how long will the update to Windows 11 be free?
At the moment it is still free to upgrade from a retail version of Windows 10 to Windows 11. Microsoft has not stated until when this will be the case. (as of the 24th of April 2023)
Is it worth it to upgrade to Windows 11?
For most people this upgrade is worth it. You get a better-looking interface and a lot of new and useful functions (see above). You should, however, not upgrade to Windows 11 if you don't meet the system requirements above, as this could cause you device problems.
How do I update Windows 10 to Windows 11?
For this, you open your settings and go to Update & Security. Here you have the option to upgrade to Windows 11. This only occurs when your device has already received the roll-out of the update possibility. Make sure that all of your files are in your OneDrive before updating. If they are on a random place on your device, there is a risk that they get lost in the update, or automatically get put in a different place. Please keep in mind that you can only upgrade to Windows 11 if you have a retail version of Windows 10.
How long does the update to Windows 11 take?
This depends on your general computer speed and internet speed. Usually, this takes a bit longer than a normal update. It is also possible to schedule the update to a moment where you are not using your device.
Until when do I get support on Windows 10?
You will receive support on your Windows 10 license until October the 14th in 2025. For Windows 11, Microsoft has not released a support end date yet.
If you are looking to maximize your productivity for your Windows 11, we have an article covering the about which Microsoft Office package is perfect for you. You can also learn more about the difference in each edition of Microsoft Office.
Summary
- Windows 11 Pro is mainly suited for small and medium-sized companies, whereas Enterprise is mainly suited for big companies and IT-companies.
- Windows 11 Enterprise offers more advanced security options then Windows 11 Pro.
- Windows 11 Enterprise has more features and functions in comparison to Pro, which logically comes with a higher price.
- Windows 11 is a big upgrade over Windows 10. For example, Microsoft Teams is included in both operating systems.
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