How to know the edition of windows to install against a key

For a Windows 10 or Windows 11 key, install ShowKeyPlus from the Microsoft Store, select Check Edition, and enter the 25-character key; it should report whether the key is for Home, Pro, or another edition.^1^

Other ways to identify it

• Retail boxed copy: Check the label or card inside the Windows box.
• Digital purchase: Check the retailer’s confirmation email or digital locker.
• Purchase from Microsoft: Check the confirmation email or Microsoft account order history.
• Key supplied with a PC: Check the packaging or Certificate of Authenticity (COA); the manufacturer can also confirm the original edition.
• Windows 7 or 8.1: The edition is normally identified on the box, key card, or COA sticker.^2^

Do not publish or send anyone the complete product key.

When installing Windows

Windows product keys are edition-specific. If Windows Setup asks for the key, entering it can select the corresponding edition from installation media that contains that edition.^3^

The installed edition must match the license—for example, a Home license will not activate Pro. Microsoft also notes that reinstalling a previously activated PC may use a digital license instead of requiring a key.^4^

If ShowKeyPlus cannot identify the key, confirm its edition with the original seller or computer manufacturer before installing. A key’s apparent acceptance does not by itself prove that it is genuine or transferable.

References

1. How to know if you have a legal key - Microsoft Q&A
2. Find your Windows product key | Microsoft Support
3. Work with product keys and activation
4. [Windows 10](https://support.microsoft.com/windows/activation/activate-windows#how-to-do-a-first-time-windows-installation-and-activation-on-a-new-device-or-motherboard-for-windows-10)