What is Windows IoT Enterprise?
Windows IoT Enterprise is designed specifically for robust industrial and automated systems. It includes features that optimize performance for low-power consumption and compact hardware, making it ideal for devices like Panel PCs and other embedded systems. Additionally, it offers unique advantages for seamless connectivity with IoT devices, making it the go-to version for industrial applications involving sensors, cameras, PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), and more.
As the industrial sector increasingly relies on these technologies, Windows IoT Enterprise has become the standard industrial operating system. If you’re looking for more information, especially about the new Windows 11 IoT Enterprise, we provide a comprehensive explanation of its features.
Advantages of Windows 10 IoT Enterprise
In addition to the general benefits of the Windows ecosystem, Windows 10 IoT Enterprise delivers full enterprise management capabilities and enhanced security for both the industrial computer and all connected IoT devices. Some of the standout features include improved productivity, confidence, and intelligence. These advancements help you connect all devices on a network or in the cloud more quickly, securely, and with minimal effort.
It also simplifies the management of devices and data interaction, accelerating digital transformation in industrial environments.
However, depending on your specific use case, another version like Windows Embedded or Windows Pro might be more appropriate. We can help guide you to the best option for your needs.
Differences Between Windows IoT Enterprise and Windows Pro
Windows 10 Pro is designed primarily for businesses and professionals, offering advanced features beyond what is available in Windows Home. It includes tools like BitLocker for encryption, domain management, and group policies, which provide more control over system updates and security. However, Windows 10 Pro is still a more general-use version and not optimized for industrial automation or IoT environments.
For industries that don’t require automation, Windows Pro could be sufficient. It supports networking within a domain and provides adequate security for many small businesses. However, the price difference between Windows Pro and Windows IoT Enterprise is minimal. Given the potential future need for more advanced applications, opting for Windows IoT Enterprise from the start can save on the costs and complications of migrating later.
In summary, for companies with growing or complex industrial needs, Windows IoT Enterprise is a forward-thinking choice, offering robust features that will meet both current and future requirements.
Windows 10 IoT Enterprise Overview
Windows 10 IoT Enterprise is a specialized version of Windows 10, designed for embedded systems and IoT (Internet of Things) devices. It is essentially a full version of Windows Enterprise, offering familiar management, security, and development tools, but with added features tailored to specific hardware needs, such as Point of Sale (POS) systems and KIOSKs.
The primary difference between Windows Enterprise and Windows IoT Enterprise is that IoT Enterprise includes advanced device lockdown features and more extensive security controls, making it ideal for dedicated-use devices. Additionally, Windows IoT Enterprise integrates Windows Defender for built-in malware protection.
While both Windows 10 and Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 operate similarly, they are offered under distinct licensing terms and are optimized for different types of deployment.
Key Features of Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021
The LTSC (Long-Term Servicing Channel) version of Windows 10 IoT Enterprise brings several distinct advantages, particularly for devices that do not require frequent updates or new features. Let’s dive into what makes Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 unique.
1. Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC)
The LTSC model ensures that the system remains stable by not requiring frequent updates with new features. This makes it ideal for devices where long-term stability and minimal disruptions are a priority, such as ATMs, digital signs, and other embedded systems. The LTSC version provides critical updates like security patches but avoids feature updates that could disrupt the operation of critical devices.
2. Enhanced Security and Device Protection
Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 includes various new security enhancements tailored for IoT devices:
- KIOSK Mode: This feature locks the device into a specific application or set of applications, preventing unauthorized use. It’s essential for devices in public environments, such as kiosks or POS systems, where unauthorized access could be a security risk.
- Data Protection Features: New in the LTSC 2021 version is enhanced data protection, ensuring the system and the data it handles remain secure. This allows IT administrators to limit access to certain parts of the system while keeping critical components locked down.
- Device Guard: This is another layer of security that leverages virtualization-based security. It isolates the Code Integrity Service from the Windows kernel, ensuring that only trusted software, signed by reliable vendors, can be run on the device.
3. Virtualization-Based Security
One of the highlights of Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 is its strong focus on virtualization-based security. This isolates core functions of the system from malicious or unauthorized code, protecting the integrity of the operating system. This is especially important for IoT devices, which are often targeted for exploitation due to their embedded nature.
4. Extended Support Cycle
A key advantage of the LTSC model is the extended support lifecycle. While regular versions of Windows 10 Enterprise offer a 5-year support cycle, Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 provides a 10-year support period. This includes security updates and critical fixes, ensuring long-term reliability for mission-critical devices.
5. Microsoft Edge Browser Support
Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 includes Microsoft Edge browser support, giving users access to a modern and secure browsing experience. This is particularly useful for web-based kiosks and devices that require online interaction. Edge brings enhanced security and compatibility, including better integration with Microsoft services and improved performance over previous browsers like Internet Explorer.
6. Customizable Update Management
Another useful feature is the ability to customize the update experience. With Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021, you can manage update notifications and even adjust screen accent colors. This allows for better control over the user interface and experience, especially in public-facing devices where minimal disruptions are required.
7. Soft Real-Time Capabilities
One of the standout new features in this release is “soft real-time” functionality. This allows device manufacturers to incorporate real-time processing capabilities on IoT devices. This is especially useful for embedded systems that need to process data or execute tasks in near real-time without delays, such as industrial machinery or medical devices.
8. Stable Platform with Security Updates
Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 offers a robust and stable platform with a focus on security updates, rather than introducing frequent new features. This makes it the perfect choice for systems where reliability, consistency, and security are paramount. Devices running LTSC 2021 will continue receiving security patches without the risk of disruptions caused by feature upgrades.
Windows 10 IoT Enterprise & Core
The Windows 10 IoT operating system comes in two different editions: IoT Enterprise and IoT Core.
- Windows 10 IoT Core: This is the smallest version of Windows 10 and is designed to provide the essential OS features needed to run single-app devices with minimal resources. Devices running IoT Core are typically small in form factor, consume ultra-low power, and are used in applications like single board computers (SBCs).
- Typical use cases include Digital Signage, Wearables, IoT Gateway, and Smart Home devices.
- Windows 10 IoT Enterprise: This edition includes the full operating system from Windows 10 Enterprise, with additional IoT-specific features such as advanced lockdown capabilities. It is best suited for devices requiring robust performance and multi-app support, such as Industrial Tablets, Retail PoS, Kiosk, and Manufacturing devices.
Feature Comparison Between IoT Core and IoT Enterprise
| Feature/Edition | Windows 10 IoT Core | Windows 10 IoT Enterprise |
|---|---|---|
| User Experience | One UWP app at a time | Traditional Windows Shell with Advanced Lockdown Features |
| App Architecture Supported | UWP UI only | Full Windows UI Support |
| Cortana | SDK Preview available | Yes |
| CPU Architecture Support | X86, x64, and ARM | X86 and x64 |
| Usage Scenarios | Digital Signage, Wearables, IoT Gateway, Smart Home | Industrial Tablets, Retail PoS, Kiosk, Manufacturing devices |
Windows 10 IoT Enterprise 10 LTSC 2019/2021 vs Windows 11 IoT Enterprise
While Windows 11 IoT Enterprise is the newest version of the OS, there are significant differences between it and previous Windows 10 IoT Enterprise versions. Depending on the device’s application, both operating systems have their pros and cons. Here is a comparison:
| Scenario | Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2019 | Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 | Windows 11 IoT Enterprise |
|---|---|---|---|
| Servicing | 10 Years (mainstream end date 2024) | 10 Years (mainstream end date 2027) | 3 years (retirement date 2024) |
| Multi-App Assigned Access | Available | Available | Coming soon |
| Soft Real-Time | x | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Unified Write Filter (UWF) Updates | x | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) | x | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| GPU Compute Support | x | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| WPA3 H2E Support | x | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Wi-Fi 6E | x | x | ✔️ |
| USB 4.0 | x | x | ✔️ |
| New Modern UI | x | x | ✔️ |
| ARM64 | Available as GAC | Available as GAC | ✔️ |
Key Differences in Support
- Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 provides a 10-year support cycle, making it a long-term solution for organizations that require stability and extended servicing for mission-critical devices.
- Windows 11 IoT Enterprise offers only 3 years of support for now, with no LTSC version currently available. However, Microsoft is actively developing one as part of its General Availability Channel (GAC) release strategy, where devices will receive annual updates with the latest features.
Choosing Between Windows 10 IoT and Windows 11 IoT
- Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 is a proven long-term solution for stable, mission-critical operations. It includes robust features like Soft Real-Time, Unified Write Filter Updates, WSL, and GPU Compute Support, making it suitable for many IoT applications.
- Windows 11 IoT Enterprise brings newer technology features like Wi-Fi 6E, USB 4.0, and a New Modern UI, which may be critical for future-facing applications where the latest advancements are essential. However, it currently lacks an LTSC version, making it less ideal for devices requiring long-term stability without frequent updates.
Licensing and Pricing of Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021
1. License Type
Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 offers three key license types, each catering to different device needs:
- Entry: Designed for low-cost, low-performance devices. This license is typically for simpler IoT devices that do not require high-end hardware. It provides essential functionality without the more advanced features or processing capabilities needed by more complex systems.
- Value: This license covers mid-range devices that require a balance between cost-efficiency and performance. It’s ideal for devices that need more processing power than Entry-level systems but do not need the capabilities of high-end industrial systems.
- High-End: This license is for devices requiring significant processing power and advanced features. It’s suitable for industrial systems, medical devices, and high-performance kiosks, where reliability and high performance are essential.
2. Pricing Structure
The pricing for Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 varies based on the license type and hardware specifications. Here’s an overview of the pricing:
- Entry License: Designed for basic devices, the cost typically ranges between $45 and $60 USD per device, depending on the hardware and volume of licenses purchased.
- Value License: For mid-tier devices, this license costs between $90 and $120 USD per device. It offers a balance between functionality and performance, making it ideal for more complex IoT devices or digital signage.
- High-End License: The High-End license is aimed at performance-intensive systems and can cost $180 to $250 USD per device, or more depending on the specific hardware requirements and the size of the deployment.
Conclusion
Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 is designed to provide a stable, secure, and manageable environment for embedded and dedicated-use devices. With its long-term servicing model, enhanced security features, and focus on reliability, it is ideal for organizations that rely on IoT devices for critical operations.
With flexible licensing options, including Entry, Value, and High-End tiers, and pricing that caters to a wide range of devices, Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 provides an excellent solution for businesses looking to build secure, long-lasting IoT infrastructures.
