Buzz
In essence, Windows N and KN versions are similar to standard Windows versions, except that these versions do not integrate Windows Media Player and other multimedia playback features.
Explore Windows N and KN Versions
How are Windows N and KN versions different from other Windows versions?
The Windows N version is available in Europe, and this version lacks some multimedia features. If you pay close attention, you will notice that on Windows 7, Windows Media Player and Windows Media Center are missing. On Windows 10, Windows Media Player, Groove Music, Movies & TV, Voice Recorder, and
The Windows KN version is available in Korea. On this version, Windows Media Player and multimedia playback features are also removed, similar to the Windows N version. Additionally, Microsoft also removes the Windows Messenger app from the Windows KN version.
Users living in these regions do not have to pay to purchase Windows N and KN versions.
All Windows versions have an N version. For example, if you want to buy Windows 10, you can choose between Windows 10 Home N or Windows 10 Professional N. These versions are identical to the standard Windows Home and Windows Professional versions, with similar features, except that the N version does not include multimedia features.
In 2004, the European Commission found Microsoft in violation of EU antitrust laws. Microsoft was fined 500 million Euros and was required to remove Windows Media Player from Windows versions. Users and computer manufacturers can choose this Windows version and install the applications, media players they want.
This is not the only Windows version offered in the European Union, it is just the available version. That is why Windows N versions are only available in Europe.
Similarly, in 2005, the Korea Fair Trade Commission found Microsoft abusing its monopoly to impact multimedia applications and messaging applications. Microsoft was fined 32 million USD and was required to provide a version of Windows without Windows Media Player and MSN Messenger. That is why the KN version is only available in Korea.
Some Limitations
Removing multimedia codecs and playback features means many applications will not work properly.
Many applications, from Microsoft Office to games on the computer, rely on Windows playback features that may not work properly or may hang completely.
On Windows 10, apps like Cortana, Windows Hello, and viewing PDF files in the Microsoft Edge browser will not work. Multimedia features in Store apps may not work. Microsoft's website also provides a detailed (but not exhaustive) list of disabled features.
Use Microsoft's Media Feature Pack to restore these applications
Learn about Windows N and KN versions
Windows N and KN versions are not 'banned' from using multimedia features, but these features are simply not installed by default.
If you want to activate disabled multimedia features on Windows N or KN versions, simply download Microsoft's free Media Feature Pack.
Each version of Windows will have a different download link, depending on whether you are using Windows 10, Windows 8, or Windows 7. Use the Media Feature Pack to re-enable all disabled features on N and KN versions.
Download the Media Feature Pack here: Download Media Feature Pack
Should you buy the N and KN versions?
To be honest, the Windows N and KN versions are a major “failure.” In theory, these versions were developed to provide additional choices for users and computer manufacturers. Instead of having to use Windows Media Player, users can install and use other media players they want.
Computer manufacturers can choose the music software they want, and entertainment companies can compete more effectively without Microsoft's media player.
Furthermore, Windows N and KN versions are not really popular, so some third-party applications may not work correctly.
And Microsoft continues to add new features to Windows 10, but these features will not work correctly on N and KN versions unless users install the missing media features.
If given the choice, Mytour recommends that you not choose these Windows versions. Of course, if you choose the Windows N or KN version, you just need to download Microsoft's free Media Feature Pack and install it, you can check the Win 10 version on the computer to see if your computer is using Windows N or KN.
After learning about Windows N and KN versions, readers now understand why these versions exist. If you have any questions or need clarification, feel free to leave your comments below!
