This article explains how to upgrade a device from Windows Home to Windows Pro before injecting a Windows Pro license through SMART.
Before You Begin
To apply a Windows Pro license to a device where you have installed Windows Home, Windows must first be switched to the Pro edition using Microsoft’s generic Pro upgrade key. This key changes the edition of Windows but does not activate it.
Upgrade Process
1. Disconnect from the Internet
Before starting the upgrade process, disconnect the device from the internet.
2. Enter Audit Mode
At the Windows Out of Box Experience (OOBE) screen (“Let’s start with region”), press:
CTRL + SHIFT + F3
The device will reboot and automatically enter Audit Mode.
3. Open Activation Settings
Navigate to: Settings → System → Activation
4. Change the Product Key
Select Change Product Key and enter the generic Windows Pro upgrade key: VK7JG-NPHTM-C97JM-9MPGT-3V66T
This key is provided by Microsoft for edition upgrades and does not activate Windows.
5. Allow Windows to Upgrade
Windows will begin converting from Home to Pro. This process may take several minutes and the device may restart.
6. Run SMART
Once the upgrade has completed and Windows Pro is installed, launch the SMART Client and inject a valid Windows Pro license.
Troubleshooting
Black Screen After Upgrade
In some cases, Windows may display a black screen with a visible mouse cursor after the edition upgrade.
If this occurs:
- Hold the power button to shut down the device.
- Power the device back on.
- Allow Windows to complete any pending configuration tasks.
Upgrade Fails
If Windows does not accept the generic upgrade key:
- Confirm the device is currently running Windows Home.
- Ensure the device is disconnected from the internet.
- Restart the device and try again.
Additional Information
The generic upgrade key only changes the Windows edition from Home to Pro. A valid Windows Pro license must still be injected through SMART to activate the device and complete the refurbishment process.
Need Help?
If you experience issues upgrading a device or injecting a license, please contact SMART - https://smartdpk.com/contact