Benefit: The app updates automatically in the background every month.

A common point of confusion is whether there is a specific "Pro" version of the desktop software. There is not. The Power BI Desktop application is free for everyone. However, your Power BI Pro license unlocks the "Pro" features once you sign in to the application and publish your work to the Power BI Service. Key Pro Features Unlocked After Download:

Operating System: Windows 10 or Windows Server 2016 (or newer).

Upgrading from the free version to a Pro license is essential for teams. While the desktop download allows you to create stunning visualizations, the Pro license allows those visualizations to become actionable business tools. It enables the "Share" button, turning a solo project into a company-wide resource.