Desktop Licensing
Windows 11 — Editions & License Types
Understand the differences between the three main Windows 11 editions and choose the right license type — OEM, Retail, or Volume Licensing.
Windows 11 Pro
The go-to choice for business users. Includes BitLocker, Hyper-V, Remote Desktop, Group Policy management, and Windows Update for Business. Suited for organizations up to ~300 users.
- BitLocker encryption
- Hyper-V virtualization
- Remote Desktop host
- Group Policy support
- Windows Update for Business
Windows 11 Enterprise
Everything in Pro plus advanced security and management. Includes Credential Guard, Application Guard, AppLocker, and DirectAccess. Available only through Volume Licensing or Microsoft 365 E3/E5 subscriptions.
- Credential Guard
- Application Guard (MDAG)
- AppLocker / App Control
- DirectAccess
- Windows Defender ATP (E5)
Windows 11 Education
Functionally identical to Enterprise, designed for educational institutions. Available at special academic pricing. Requires an Academic Volume License agreement.
- Full Enterprise functionality
- Academic pricing
- Set Up School PCs app
- Take a Test feature
- Autopilot self-deploying
License Types: OEM vs Retail vs Volume
| Feature | OEM | Retail (FPP) | Volume (VL) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tied to device | Yes | No | No |
| Transfer to another PC | ✕ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Downgrade rights | Limited | ✕ | ✓ |
| Reimaging rights | ✕ | ✕ | ✓ |
| Minimum quantity | 1 | 1 | 5+ |
| Price | Lowest | Highest | Mid (at scale) |
Microsoft 365 E3/E5 — Windows Enterprise Upgrade Rights
Microsoft 365 E3 and E5 subscriptions include Windows Enterprise upgrade rights. This means if your device has a qualifying Windows Pro license (OEM or Volume), you can upgrade to Enterprise at no additional license cost. This is the most cost-effective path to Enterprise features, since M365 E3 also includes Office 365, EMS, and other services.
- M365 E3: Windows Enterprise E3 + Office 365 E3 + EMS E3
- M365 E5: Windows Enterprise E5 + Office 365 E5 + EMS E5 + Defender ATP
- Prerequisite: device must have a qualifying Windows Pro license
- Each user can activate on up to 5 devices
Related Articles
| Windows Server | Windows Server Core Licensing |
| Windows Server | Virtualization Rights |
| Licensing | CAL — Client Access License |