Windows 10 Pro vs. Windows Pro N — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Published on December 15, 2023
Windows 10 Pro offers full features including Microsoft apps, while Windows Pro N excludes certain media-related technologies due to European regulations.
Difference Between Windows 10 Pro and Windows Pro N
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Windows 10 Pro is a version of the Windows operating system that is designed to meet the needs of both home users and business professionals. It offers advanced features like BitLocker, Remote Desktop, and the ability to join a domain. This edition provides a comprehensive suite of Microsoft apps and technologies, making it versatile and suitable for various tasks and purposes.
Windows Pro N, on the other hand, is a version of Windows 10 Pro but with a notable difference. Due to regulations set by the European Commission, it comes without certain media-related technologies. This means it lacks features like Windows Media Player and certain other multimedia functionalities.
Both Windows 10 Pro and Windows Pro N are catered towards users who need enhanced functionalities beyond the basics. They provide advanced networking capabilities, security features, and more. However, users who opt for Windows Pro N will need to find alternatives or supplementary downloads for the missing multimedia features.
It's important for users to understand their requirements when choosing between these versions. Windows 10 Pro is a comprehensive package that offers the full Windows experience, but if you reside in regions where the "N" versions are prevalent, you might end up with Windows Pro N and its unique set of features and omissions.
Comparison Chart
Target Audience
Home users and professionals
Users in European countries following the EC's regulations
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Multimedia Technologies
Includes media-related technologies
Excludes certain media-related technologies
Windows Media Player
Available
Not available
Availability
Globally
Specific to regions affected by European regulations
Additional Downloads Required
No
Yes, for missing multimedia features
Compare with Definitions
Windows 10 Pro
Comes with a full suite of Microsoft applications.
Windows 10 Pro includes tools like Remote Desktop and BitLocker.
Windows Pro N
A version of Windows 10 Pro lacking certain multimedia features.
Windows Pro N users might need to download alternative media players.
Windows 10 Pro
Offers comprehensive media technologies.
With Windows 10 Pro, users can readily access Windows Media Player.
Windows Pro N
Requires additional downloads for full media functionality.
To get complete multimedia support, Windows Pro N users often need supplementary apps.
Windows 10 Pro
Suitable for both home and business use.
Many home users upgrade to Windows 10 Pro for its enhanced capabilities.
Windows Pro N
Tailored according to European Commission regulations.
Windows Pro N was created in response to specific European legal requirements.
Windows 10 Pro
An advanced version of Windows tailored for professionals.
Businesses often prefer Windows 10 Pro for its advanced security features.
Windows Pro N
Primarily found in European regions.
Customers in Europe might be more familiar with Windows Pro N due to local regulations.
Windows 10 Pro
Provides tools for networking, domain join, and more.
IT departments value Windows 10 Pro for its domain join capability.
Windows Pro N
Similar to Windows 10 Pro but with media technology exclusions.
Apart from media features, Windows Pro N offers the same utilities as Windows 10 Pro.
Common Curiosities
What's the primary difference between Windows 10 Pro and Windows Pro N?
Windows 10 Pro includes all features, while Windows Pro N lacks specific media-related technologies.
Do both versions offer the same security features?
Yes, both provide the same security functionalities, like BitLocker.
Can I get Windows Media Player on Windows Pro N?
No, it's excluded, but users can download alternative media players.
Is user support different for these versions?
No, Microsoft offers support for both versions.
Are the "N" versions exclusive to Europe?
They're primarily for the European market due to regional regulations, but can technically be used anywhere.
Why was Windows Pro N created?
It was developed in compliance with European Commission regulations concerning media technologies.
Is the installation process different between the two?
The core installation is similar, but Windows Pro N users might need additional media feature downloads.
Can I use Windows Pro N outside of Europe?
Technically, yes, but it's designed with European regulations in mind.
Do I pay less for Windows Pro N since it has fewer features?
Not necessarily; pricing can depend on various factors, including region and retailer.
Why might someone choose Windows Pro N over Windows 10 Pro?
It could be due to regional availability, compliance, or specific needs that exclude the omitted media features.
Can I upgrade from Windows Pro N to Windows 10 Pro?
Yes, you can upgrade, but you might need a new license or purchase.
Does Windows Pro N lack any other features besides media technologies?
Primarily, it's the media technologies that are omitted; the rest of the features align closely with Windows 10 Pro.
Will my software run on both versions?
Yes, unless it specifically relies on the media technologies excluded in Windows Pro N.
Are updates and patches released simultaneously for both?
Generally, yes. Both versions receive updates concurrently.
Are there any other "N" versions of Windows?
Yes, there are "N" versions of other Windows editions, like Windows Home N.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
