More than likely, Windows 8 works the same way, there is a Pro & Pro Plus Pack (Pro Plus includes Media Center), those who upgrades from 8 to 8 Pro can still get Media Center for free. I wanted XP Mode for testing purposes, & one must have 7 Pro or above to get it. This is how I got 7 Pro on my notebook & 7 Ultimate on my desktop. You then enter the key via the Start Menu option 'Windows Anytime Upgrade' & within minutes, your OS is upgraded. In the case of Windows 7 & Vista, one could purchase a key from the MS Store (& other retailers, both online & retail). Why is that? The OEM's works together with MS to install 'home' versions on computers intended for non-business users, this brings additional revenue MS's way by the sale of 'Anytime Upgrade' versions. Even many in the $1,500 to $2,000 range, loaded with high end hardware (true quad core i7's & up to 4GB GDDR5 video cards). I've noticed that the majority of new Windows 8 computers sold online & at brick & mortar retailers ships with the Plain Jane style of Windows 8 (non-Pro). However, if you are checking or configuring security settings on a Windows 8 computer in a Workgroup or HomeGroup then you need the Local Security Editor - secpol.msc.

If you have Active Directory then you don't need Secpol because you can use the GPMC (Group Policy Management Console) on the domain controller. Navigating through the security settings is as easy as finding files and folders with Windows Explorer. When secpol.msc appears in the search results, consider creating a shortcut by right-clicking and choosing either 'Pin to Taskbar', or 'Pin to Start Menu'.ģ. msc file extension, otherwise Windows 8 can't find the snap-in.Ģ. Click on the Start orb, and in the search dialog box type: secpol.msc Now I will show you how to launch the local security policy to change your security setting.ġ. Secpol controls the security subset of local group policies. In fact, Gpedit in Windows 7 has been changed into Secpol in Windows 8. A common problem is that some people using Windows 8 cannot find Local Security Policy Editor.

C editor for windows 8