Do I need to downgrade windows?

Downgrading from Windows Pro to Windows Home is not required for app compatibility, and is not a supported downgrade path in-place.

Windows editions (Home vs Pro) use the same core OS and do not, by themselves, determine whether an older program like Microsoft Works can open documents. If Works runs and opens files on one Windows 10/11 device, it should also be able to do so on another device with the same Windows version, regardless of Home or Pro edition, assuming:

• The same Works version is installed correctly on both devices.
• The same file types are associated with Works.
• The documents are not corrupted and are accessible (for example, copied correctly from laptop to desktop).

The issue is more likely due to:

1. Differences in how Works is installed or configured on the desktop.
2. Missing components or compatibility settings on the desktop.
3. File association or permission issues.

Instead of downgrading Windows, use compatibility options to help older apps:

1. Check for any available updates or newer versions of the app from the publisher.
2. Run the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter on the desktop:
   • Select Start > Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
   • Run Program Compatibility Troubleshooter and point it at the Works executable.

If the program itself will not start or open files even after compatibility troubleshooting, consider using a more modern, supported application that can open or recreate those documents.

References:

• Make older apps or programs compatible with the latest version of Windows
• Windows edition upgrade