Windows 10 has a lot of different versions. There is Windows 10 Home for regular folks. Then there are versions for enterprise-grade customers. Among the enterprise versions, there is a version called the Windows 10 Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC)
So, what is Windows 10 LTSC? More importantly, how is it different from regular Windows 10? Let’s see.
What Is Windows 10 LTSC?
Microsoft offers several enterprise versions of Windows 10. These versions are not meant to be used by average consumers like home users. The enterprise versions are best suited for, you guessed it, enterprises and small to medium-sized businesses.
Windows 10 Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) is an enterprise Windows solution for devices that don’t need to be updated for years to come. LTSC is ideal for devices that are used to perform highly-specialized functions.
For instance, medical imaging devices, computers used in aircraft, and industrial machinery that doesn’t require updates are prime targets for Windows LTSC.
That said, Windows 10 LTSC can be also deployed by enterprises to everyday use computers. But it is not ideal since doing so will disable many modern functions and features of such machines.
What Are the Differences Between Windows 10 And Windows 10 LTSC?
The key difference between regular versions of Windows 10, like Windows 10 Home and Professional, and Windows 10 LTSC is that the LTSC experience doesn’t change much from year to year.
To better understand the difference, take the example of Windows 10 Home. This version of Windows receives regular features and quality updates from Microsoft. With each subsequent update, programs like Microsoft Edge receive new features and stability fixes.
Windows 10 LTSC, on the other hand, doesn’t receive updates for years at a time. Furthermore, many features that are commonplace in regular Windows 10 are disabled in the LTSC version. For instance, Windows 10 LTSC doesn’t have Microsoft Edge because Edge gets a lot of feature updates.
Windows 10 LTSC Is “Set It And Forget it”
The best way to describe Windows 10 LTSC is that it is a tightly-controlled experience where you only have access to functions that you absolutely need. If you need an enterprise version of Windows 10 but also need features like Windows Ink, Camera, Microsoft Edge, etc, Windows 10 LTSC won’t be for you.
That said, Windows has several enterprise SKUs. Take a look at them, and you’ll find one that works for you.