this post was submitted on 17 Jun 2025
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Easier to link am article than write one myself.
I only glanced through this one, it may not be 100%,but it gets the salient points.
https://www.emsisoft.com/en/blog/18770/the-truth-about-windows-10-spying-on-almost-everything-you-do/
The problem mostly exists on Windows Home versions, since they're not managed by am orga izatkom. Plus during initial setup it makes it seem like a Microsoft account is required, which means MS collects a lot of activity data about you.
I only run Pro, and disable many of these unused services with tools like O&O Shutup and setting specific registry keys.
Can those services and registry keys be disabled on Home editions as well?
Unfortunately no. Home edition will actively ignore Group Policies and Registry keys relating to privacy.
You would be better off using a 10 Pro license or pirating 10 Pro and keeping it from phoning home.
Is it possible to convert an existing Home installation to a Pro installation without completely wiping the system and reinstalling everything?
No. Not without paying a hefty license upgrade fee (Retail copy) or doing something incredibly shady. (Piracy tools which I won't specifically name but I'm sure you can find and likely know the dangers of obtaining for some users.)
You can type these magic words to your search engine: Microsoft Activation Scripts (MAS)
Yes, Settings -> Update & Security -> Activation will give you an offer to upgrade your edition of Windows or change your product key.