Microsoft releases multiple editions of its Operating Systems like Windows 10. Sometimes it can be quite confusing to check which edition or version suits our needs. In this article, we will discuss about different editions of Windows 10 and know what is Pro, VL and N editions.
Let’s discuss each edition one by one so that we can understand the difference among all these Windows 10 editions.
Windows 10 Home
Windows 10 Home mostly comes pre-installed in the laptops you buy. It contains all the major features included in Windows 10 like Cortana, Microsoft Edge, Continuum, universal apps etc. The things missing are mostly related to networking. The home edition can’t be joined in a domain and it does not include group policy editor. But you can install group policy editor separately in Windows 10. If you are going to use Windows 10 on your home computer, Windows 10 Home is suitable for you. Other features not included in Windows 10 Home are Bitlocker, Enterprise Mode IE, Remote Desktop and Client Hyper-V.
Windows 10 Pro
Windows 10 Professional edition is mostly used in Office environments where joining a Windows Server domain is required. Windows 10 Pro comes with all the features of Windows 10 Home and features like Group Policy Management, Bitlocker encryption, Remote Desktop, Hyper-V, Azure Active Directory join ability, enterprise data protection, Windows Update for business etc.
Windows 10 Enterprise
Windows 10 Enterprise edition includes all the features of Windows 10 Pro plus additional features like Direct Access, Windows To Go creator, AppLocker, BranchCache, Start Screen control with Group Policy, credential guard, device guard etc.
Windows 10 Mobile
Windows 10 Mobile is designed for smartphones and tablets and includes basic consumer features including Continuum capability.
What does VL stand for?
You will see Windows 10 Enterprise VL editions. VL stands for Volume License. This means that a single license key can be used to activate multiple installations of Windows 10. This is usually used by large enterprises.
N and KN editions
Windows 10 N editions are specifically designed for Europe and Switzerland to comply with the European law. The N stands for Not with Media Player and does not come with Windows Media Player pre-installed.
KN is specially designed for Korean market and does not include Windows Media Player (WMP) and an instant messenger.
Hopefully this gives a brief comparison of all the Windows 10 editions. Wikipedia gives a very good comparison chart and for full detailed comparison, you can read the Microsoft Windows 10 comparison page.
Upcoming: Windows 10 S:
Windows 10 S is a specific configuration of Windows 10 Pro that offers a familiar, productive Windows experience that’s streamlined for security and performance. By exclusively using apps in the Windows Store and ensuring that you browse safely with Microsoft Edge, Windows 10 S keeps you running fast and secure day in and day out.
