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August 2nd, 2025 21:08

Does installing Windows 10 on a Dell machine that comes with Windows 11 Pro require a separate license?

I'm planning to purchase a Dell desktop that comes pre-installed with Windows 11 Pro. However, I need to install Windows 10 on it because a specific software I use isn't compatible with Windows 11. I'm wondering if the system will automatically activate Windows 10, since it's essentially a downgrade from Windows 11, or if I need to purchase a separate Windows 10 license.

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August 2nd, 2025 23:57

It should - that said, you will want to be able to restore Windows 11 quickly in case you need support (Dell will not support Windows 10 on the system) -- and because Windows 10 will cease receiving updates in just over two months unless you pay for a yearly update subscription.  

Whatever software you have that won't run under Windows 11 should be updated or upgraded - the end is near for Windows 10.

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