Understanding Windows 10 LTSC and Its End of Support
MS offers several editions of Windows 10, including Pro, Home, and LTSC. While LTSC is primarily designed for businesses, tech-savvy consumers have also adopted it. One of the most widely used versions is Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021, which is approaching its end of support in January 2027. To prepare, MS requires users to pay $61 per device for extended updates.
What Makes LTSC Different?
Unlike other Windows 10 editions such as Home, Pro, Enterprise, and Education, LTSC stands apart by omitting ads, bloatware, and many native MS apps. For example, the UWP Calculator app is not included by default. This minimalistic approach makes LTSC appealing to enterprises and certain consumers who prefer a cleaner operating system.
In a statement shared with Windows Latest, MS confirmed that Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021, which debuted in November 2021, will reach its end of support on January 12, 2027. After this date, devices running this version will no longer receive regular security updates, including critical bug fixes.
What Happens After Support Ends?
While Windows 10 LTSC will not stop functioning after its support ends, the lack of monthly cumulative updates poses security risks, especially with the rise of AI-driven threats. MS strongly advises users to avoid delaying updates for more than three days due to these emerging vulnerabilities. To help users transition, MS has outlined three options to prepare for the end of support.
How to Prepare for the End of Support
Option 1: Switch to Another Supported LTSC Edition
Users can migrate to Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2019 or its IoT equivalent, which remain supported until January 9, 2029. The 2019 edition offers a longer support lifecycle compared to the 2021 release, which received only five years of support.
Another option is Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021, supported until January 13, 2032. This edition is specifically geared toward IoT devices, and the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program does not apply, as it is already covered by its lifecycle until 2032.
Option 2: Purchase Extended Security Updates (ESU)
MS offers an ESU program for Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021, allowing users to receive security updates for up to three additional years, until January 8, 2030. The cost is $61 per device for the first year, with discounts for organizations using MS Intune or Windows Autopatch, which lowers the price to $45 per device.
However, the cost doubles each subsequent year, and late enrollment requires users to pay for all previous years. MS emphasizes that ESU is a temporary solution, providing only critical security updates, without new features or general quality fixes.
Option 3: Upgrade to Windows 11 Enterprise LTSC 2024
The third and most recommended option by MS is to upgrade to Windows 11 Enterprise LTSC 2024. This ensures users benefit from an actively supported operating system with enhanced features and security.
How Good Is Windows 11 LTSC?
Windows 11 LTSC is designed for enterprises and maintains a streamlined approach, free of pre-installed apps like Clipchamp or HP Support. This minimalistic setup makes it more stable and user-friendly for professional environments.
Notable differences include the absence of features like the drag-and-drop tray, Copilot, modern versions of Notepad, Paint, or Calculator, and even the Widgets board. Instead, these tools are replaced with their classic counterparts. Additionally, Windows 11 LTSC lacks the MS Store and other consumer-oriented features.
While Windows 11 LTSC introduces design changes compared to Windows 10 LTSC, the overall performance remains comparable. Personal preference plays a significant role in deciding between the two versions.
Final Thoughts
If you are currently using Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021, it is crucial to make a decision soon, as the end of support approaches. MS is expected to launch a promotional campaign to encourage users to transition to Windows 11 before extended support for Windows 10 concludes in October 2027.
For continued security and performance, consider your options carefully and plan your upgrade path accordingly.
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