Windows 10 LTSC IOT?

[BillyCarpenter]

Anyone heard of this version of Windows 10? It's the Enterprise Edition and unlike the Pro or Home version, it won't hit end of life in October. In fact, it will still get security updates until 2032. And it has none of the bloatware that comes with Windows. This is the lightweight version.

[BillyCarpenter]

By the way, I'm running this version on one of my machines. And it's activated.

[adecanmin]

By the way, I'm running this version on one of my machines. And it's activated.

Good information. I'm going to use the 21 version. Did you have to purchase a key?

[adecanmin]

Looks like the key that is purchased is not for the IOT so support is good until 2027.

[Hart]

"It's the Enterprise Edition"
Not it's another variant, you have Enterprise, Enterprise LTSB/LTSC, and Enterprise IoT LTSC.
I could not find any official ways to buy a key for any LTSC / IoT LTSC, it's reserved to some customers. So yarr ol' matey

[BillyCarpenter]

Good information. I'm going to use the 21 version. Did you have to purchase a key?

Yes, I purchased a key for $22.

[BillyCarpenter]

"It's the Enterprise Edition"
Not it's another variant, you have Enterprise, Enterprise LTSB/LTSC, and Enterprise IoT LTSC.
I could not find any official ways to buy a key for any LTSC / IoT LTSC, it's reserved to some customers. So yarr ol' matey

I feel like most of the time you disagree simply to disagree. IOT is one of many Enterprise Editions that were intended for large corporations. And you can find a key if you know where to look.

[Hart]

"I feel like most of the time you disagree simply to disagree."

https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/lifecycle/products/?terms=windows%2010%20ltsc

Windows 10 Enterprise is EOL Oct 14, 2025

https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/lifecycle/products/windows-10-enterprise-and-education

Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 (the last one for Win10) is EOL Jan 12, 2027

https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/lifecycle/products/windows-10-enterprise-ltsc-2021

Windows 10 IoT Enterprise is EOL Oct 14, 2025

https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/lifecycle/products/windows-10-iot-enterprise

Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 (the last one for Win10) is EOL Jan 13, 2032

https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/lifecycle/products/windows-10-iot-enterprise-ltsc-2021

And sure I can find a key on ebay or whatever, perfectly fine in a production environment ... At this point just don't activate Windows, it's easier.

[BillyCarpenter]

You know an awfully lot for someone who never used the product.

[Hart]

I use it but not in production.

[rthonpm]

It's the newest version of the old CE or Embedded versions of Windows. IOT LTSC is really made for equipment that often isn't even booting directly into Windows but rather its own interface. It's generally available only to OEMs and equipment manufacturers. Sure, you could use it as a standard workstation but I wouldn't recommend it, especially in a business environment where you'll fail any compliance audit as using it as a general use computer is against the licensing terms.

[Hart]

Related to the subject :
Setting up Windows 10 Extended Security Updates

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ERDjeKN1_Es

[Aneurysm]

It's the newest version of the old CE or Embedded versions of Windows. IOT LTSC is really made for equipment that often isn't even booting directly into Windows but rather its own interface. It's generally available only to OEMs and equipment manufacturers. Sure, you could use it as a standard workstation but I wouldn't recommend it, especially in a business environment where you'll fail any compliance audit as using it as a general use computer is against the licensing terms.

Correct, Win10 IoT versions are designed for use in devices that need an operating system for very specific functions like running a Kiosk display, medical devices, security systems, and others. I used it on a Raspberry Pi for a while to run an Atari/Commodore/NES emulator and it worked well. I don't think it's designed for use like a PC, but if all you do is browse the internet it would probably do OK.

Here's some cut-n-paste info on it:

Windows IoT (Internet of Things) is a family of Windows operating systems designed for embedded and IoT devices, offering enterprise-grade power, security, and manageability. It's tailored for a range of devices, from small, resource-constrained systems to larger, more complex ones used in industrial settings.

Windows IoT Enterprise LTSC (Long-Term Servicing Channel) is a specialized version of the Windows operating system designed for fixed-function, special-purpose devices and embedded systems that require a long, stable support lifecycle of 10 years, unlike standard Windows versions that receive frequent feature updates. It prioritizes stability, consistency, and security over new features, making it ideal for industries like banking, healthcare, manufacturing, and retail where devices perform critical business functions over extended periods.
Key characteristics and benefits of Windows IoT Enterprise LTSC:

• Long-term Support:
  Offers a 10-year support lifecycle, ensuring stability and preventing unexpected changes to the operating system over the device's lifespan, crucial for regulated environments and critical systems.
• Focus on Stability:
  Updates are released less frequently than in standard Windows versions, prioritizing security and system stability over feature upgrades.
• Customization and Control:
  Provides enhanced control over specific Windows features, allowing for the exclusion of non-essential components like the Microsoft Store and Cortana to reduce the operating system footprint and enhance security.
• Device Lockdown Features:
  Includes capabilities to "lockdown" the device experience for public-facing or employee-facing scenarios, preventing unauthorized changes or access.
• Unified Write Filter (UWF):
  Protects against data corruption from sudden power loss and unauthorized modifications by write-protecting files, folders, or partitions.
• USB, Keyboard, and Gesture Filters:
  Allows for management of allowed USB devices, keyboard shortcuts, and gestures.
• Dialogue Box & Notification Filter:
  Enables control over which notifications are seen and automatic responses to dialogue boxes.
• Removable Packages:
• Allows administrators to reduce the operating system's storage footprint by removing unnecessary features.
• Licensing:
  Distinct from Windows Enterprise, LTSC versions are typically licensed through the open volume channel for Enterprise and the IoT channel for IoT Enterprise.

[Hart]

Stop, we're already convinced that this is the best version of Windows 10

[BillyCarpenter]

Licensing issues aside, I think this is the best version of Windows. It doesn't have all the crap that we don't want nor need. Just my opinion.