purchased windows 11 pro as an upgrade to windows 11 home for my Microsoft surface

Question

how do i get the activation key or what is the process to upgrade?

Answer 1

Hello

Upgrade license is digital only, meaning your Microsoft account itself serves as license.

You can upgrade in two different ways:

Option 1: Go to the Store app, search for Windows 11 Pro, and install it from there.

Option 2: You can go to Settings > System > Activation > Change product key

Disconnect internet, and disable any third party antivirus, key in the generic key instead: VK7JG-NPHTM-C97JM-9MPGT-3V66T

That should get you to Pro. Once restarted, you can connect back to the internet, sign into your Microsoft account. See if it is activated.

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Keep in mind, your upgrade portion is transfered since you purchased it, meaning, if you get a new computer that comes with Windows 11 Home, you can transfer the pro portion. It is very important that you do NOT remove the old device name from your Microsoft account. Then on the new device, you do this:

Upgrade to Pro first: same instruction as Option 2 above.

Then transfer licence: go to Settings > System > Activation, run the troubleshooter, choose the hardware change option. When it asks you where it is installed on right now, you should choose the old device name. Then click on Activate button. And on the next screen when it asks you where to transfer it to, choose your new device name.

Answer 2

To upgrade from Windows 11 Home to Windows 11 Pro, you will need to follow these steps to obtain and enter your activation key:

1. Purchase Windows 11 Pro: If you haven't already purchased Windows 11 Pro, you can do so through the Microsoft Store. Open the Microsoft Store app on your Surface, search for "Windows 11 Pro," and select the option to upgrade.
2. Activation Key: If you purchased Windows 11 Pro, you should receive an activation key. This key is typically sent to you via email or can be found in your Microsoft account under your purchases.
3. Upgrade Process: To upgrade, follow these steps:
   • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Activation.
   • Click on Change product key and enter your 25-character Windows 11 Pro product key.
   • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the upgrade.

If you encounter any issues or need further assistance, you may want to contact Microsoft Support for help with your activation key or the upgrade process.