Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC – Long-Term Servicing Channel

Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC is a specialized edition of Windows 10 Enterprise designed for mission-critical devices that demand maximum stability and minimal change. Instead of frequent feature updates, LTSC receives regular security and quality updates only throughout its support lifecycle—ideal for kiosks, ATMs, medical and industrial systems, and other fixed-purpose deployments.

Key Benefits

• Stability first: No semi-annual feature upgrades; only security and reliability fixes.
• Reduced footprint: No Microsoft Store or consumer apps by default; fewer background services.
• Enterprise security: BitLocker, Group Policy, Windows Defender Antivirus, Device/Credential Guard (hardware-dependent), and advanced management options.
• Predictable servicing: Long support windows per LTSC release (see table below).
• Great for fixed-function devices: Keeps UI and app surface stable to minimize re-certification and downtime.

What’s Included (Feature Highlights)

• Windows 10 Enterprise feature set (domain join, Group Policy, Assigned Access, Kiosk mode, AppLocker, BitLocker, Remote Desktop, Hyper-V, Windows Sandbox (where supported)).
• Windows Defender Antivirus and integration with Microsoft Defender for Endpoint (separate subscription may be required).
• Advanced security options: Credential Guard, Device Guard / Windows Defender Application Control (hardware/firmware prerequisites apply).
• Management compatibility: Microsoft Intune, Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager, on-prem AD and Azure AD.

Intentionally Excluded in LTSC

• Microsoft Store and most inbox consumer apps (e.g., Xbox apps).
• Frequently changing consumer features and UI changes from feature updates.
• Cortana and other cloud-consumer experiences common to SAC channels.

Servicing & Support Lifecycle

Each LTSC release is a snapshot of Windows 10 at that point in time. Servicing policy differs by release year:

Tip: Choose the branch that aligns with your device lifecycle and regulatory/certification needs. LTSC 2021 follows the newer 5-year policy; earlier LTSCs follow the 10-year model.

Typical Use Cases

• Medical devices & imaging systems
• Industrial control & SCADA workstations
• ATMs, POS terminals, digital signage, kiosks
• Airports, transportation hubs, and critical infrastructure consoles
• Any fixed-purpose device where change control is strict

System Requirements (Guidance)

• CPU: 1 GHz or faster with PAE/NX/SSE2; 64-bit recommended
• RAM: 2 GB (64-bit) / 1 GB (32-bit) minimum; 4 GB+ recommended
• Storage: 32 GB minimum; more for imaging, telemetry, and offline updates
• Graphics: DirectX 9 or later with WDDM driver
• Firmware: UEFI with Secure Boot recommended for modern security features
• Network: Internet access required for activation/updates (or corporate WSUS/ConfigMgr)

Requirements can vary by image, language packs, and feature enablement. For Device/Credential Guard and virtualization-based security (VBS), additional CPU virtualization and TPM 2.0 capabilities are recommended.

Licensing & Activation

• Licensing: Offered via Microsoft Volume Licensing programs and authorized partners.
• Activation: Supports KMS and MAK. KMS requires periodic network connectivity to your KMS host; MAK activates per device.
• Usage: Intended for specialized/embedded and fixed-purpose enterprise devices—not general productivity PCs.

Compatibility & Management

• Domain & Identity: Azure AD join, on-prem AD join, Hybrid Azure AD join
• MDM/MAM: Microsoft Intune and third-party MDMs that support Windows 10 Enterprise
• Configuration at scale: Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager, Windows Autopilot (where applicable), Group Policy, WSUS
• App packaging: MSI, MSIX, and line-of-business apps; Win32 support

Delivery (Virtual Product)

• Fulfillment: Digital delivery. You receive installation media access (ISO download instructions), product key details, and activation guidance.
• Edition: Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC (specify release year if required: 2015/2016/2019/2021).
• Language: Multilingual media available; add language packs as needed.
• Support: Security and quality updates delivered via Windows Update, WSUS, or Configuration Manager throughout the LTSC lifecycle.

Important Notes

• LTSC is not recommended for general office workers who need Microsoft Store apps and rapid feature innovation.
• Upgrades between LTSC releases require an in-place upgrade to a newer LTSC image (not monthly feature updates).
• Third-party or line-of-business apps should be validated against your chosen LTSC build to avoid re-certification surprises.

Why Choose LTSC?

Pick LTSC when operational continuity, re-certification costs, and strict change control outweigh the need for the latest consumer features. You get a leaner OS surface, predictable servicing, and enterprise-grade controls that help fixed-purpose devices stay secure and consistent over time.