A Guide to Windows IoT Enterprise Licensing & Usage

In order to start your journey with Windows IoT Enterprise, you need to get a license.

You can retrieve a license by contacting a Windows IoT Distributor or use the Windows Enterprise 90 day Evaluation

Authorized Partners for Windows IoT Solutions

Microsoft presents a vast array of Windows IoT and Embedded product options. If you’re seeking the ideal SKU to match your hardware specifications and fiscal plan, authorized Windows IoT product distributors can be invaluable. Their expertise in development, along with a deep understanding of the landscape, allows them to assist you in crafting secure and interlinked Windows IoT systems. Should you wish to collaborate with an authorized distributor, simply choose a partner within your geographical area and reach out directly to them for more detailed information.

Tailored Solutions for Dedicated Devices with Windows IoT Enterprisee

Windows has long established itself as an operating system for consumer and business laptops and desktops, gaining a massive global user base over the years. Beyond these common applications, Windows also operates behind the scenes in a plethora of specialized equipment, including ATMs, point-of-sale systems, industrial automation tools, thin clients, medical apparatus, digital signage, kiosks, and other dedicated-function devices. Windows IoT Enterprise is designed specifically for these scenarios, providing a reliable platform with tailored licensing agreements that encompass certain permissions and limitations to fulfil the distinctive requirements of fixed-purpose device development.

Refer to your licensing documentation for detailed instructions on all applicable uses of Windows IoT Enterprise. As an end-user, you should have received these terms through an agreement from your Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). If you are an OEM, for inquiries about your particular licensing terms, please consult with your distributor.

A fixed purpose device differs from a general-purpose device in the following ways:

• The device is configured to only run certain pre-selected applications, utilizing features such as Assigned Access or Shell Launcher to restrict access.
• Users can experience immediate functionality upon start-up as the device’s software is set up to bypass the standard Windows setup.
• Security measures are enhanced by restricting keyboards, USB ports, and setting stringent device policies, ensuring the device serves its intended specific function.
• The IoT Device Manufacturer supplies the end-user with the device, which comes with pre-installed software, and incorporates the necessary Windows licensing terms within its own IoT OEM contracts.
• Any support required for the functioning of the complete device, including the operating system, is managed by the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM).

There are presently two distinct release channels available for Windows 10 IoT Enterprise:

• The General Availability Channel offers twice-a-year feature updates with a support period ranging from 18 to 30 months.
• Aimed at specialized devices such as medical equipment controllers or ATM machines, which usually do not run Office, the Long Term Servicing Channel delivers new feature updates every two to three years and offers a 10-year support window.

As of now, Windows 11 IoT Enterprise is following a single annual release schedule. Additional details can be found on the Windows 11 servicing page and within the Windows for IoT Product Lifecycle documentation.

Understanding the General Availability Channel

The General Availability Channel operates under a servicing model where users receive feature updates promptly upon their release by Microsoft. This channel is exceptionally well-suited for environments where early adoption is crucial, such as pilot programs, and for professionals like developers who require immediate access to the newest features. Following an initial phase of pilot deployment and comprehensive testing, there is the flexibility for organizations to determine the most appropriate moment to transition the update into widespread deployment. Check out the General Availability Channel for additional details.

The Essence of the Long-term Servicing Channel

The Long-term Servicing Channel (LTSC) is tailored to meet the unique needs of specialized systems such as medical equipment PCs, point-of-sale systems, and ATMs. Designed for devices fulfilling critical singular functions, LTSC prioritizes stability and security over frequent feature updates. With stability as the cornerstone, the LTSC model is chosen for such devices to ensure uninterrupted, robust performance necessary for essential operations.

Unlike the typical update model, Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC does not receive regular feature updates. Instead, it focuses on delivering quality updates to maintain the highest level of security without unnecessary changes to the user interface or system operations. As stability is paramount for these task-specific systems, the absence of frequent feature updates is considered a boon, not a drawback.

While quality updates are available promptly, Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC users retain the discretion to schedule these updates. This flexibility can be managed through various servicing tools, providing control to maintain equilibrium between security and system consistency. Review the Long-term Servicing Channel for detailed information.

Understanding the Long-term Servicing Channel (LTSC) for Windows 10 IoT Enterprise

The Long-term Servicing Channel offers a specialized version of Windows specifically crafted for systems that prioritize stability and security. Microsoft typically introduces a new iteration of Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC around every three years, each one being a separate SKU. These LTSC editions encapsulate all enhancements and support upgrades implemented in the feature updates of Windows 10 IoT Enterprise since the last LTSC was unveiled.

When you’re looking to benefit from the newer features and updates—such as enhancements in security, deployment, and management—that have unfolded since the last LTSC version, it necessitates obtaining a new SKU license for the latest LTSC release. For instance, to harness improvements introduced subsequent to the Windows 10 IoT Enterprise 2016 LTSC, you would need to acquire the Windows 10 IoT Enterprise 2019 LTSC license and proceed with an update on your device.

The LTSC releases boast an extensive lifecycle that stretches up to a decade. Hence, to transition from one LTSC version to the subsequent release, there is an upgrade fee applied. This is attributed to the extended support period and the advantage of maintaining a consistent release over ten years. For more information, please consult the Fixed Lifecycle Policy.

Windows for IoT Release Overview

Microsoft Lifecycle delivers dependable and foreseeable policies for product support, aiding clients in navigating their IT portfolios and preparing strategically for what lies ahead.

Begin your search below for a comprehensive register of Microsoft offerings. Once you find your desired product or service, delve into support and maintenance schedules, mandatory updates, transition guidance, and the necessary specifications.

Windows IoT Version	Start Date	End Date
Windows 10 IoT Enterprise	Jul 29, 2015	Oct 14, 2025
Windows Server IoT 2019	Mar 4, 2019	Jan 9, 2029
Windows 10 IoT Core LTSC	Nov 13 2018	Jan 9, 2029
Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSB 2015	Jul 29, 2015	Oct 14, 2025
Windows 10 IoT Core	Apr 29, 2015	Nov 10, 2020
Windows Server IoT 2022	Aug 18, 2021	Oct 14, 2031
Windows 11 IoT Enterprise	Oct 4, 2021	N/A
Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021	Nov 16, 2021	Jan 13, 2032
Windows 10 IoT LTSC 2019 Core	Nov 13, 2018	Jan 9, 2029
Windows Server IoT 2019 for Storage	Mar 4, 2019	Jan 9, 2029
Windows 10 IoT Core Services	Nov 13, 2018	N/A
Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSB 2016	Aug 2, 2016	Oct 13, 2026
Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2019	Nov 13, 2018	Jan 9, 2029

For insights into the latest updates and service details for each Windows for IoT product, be sure to review the comprehensive information available on the Windows for IoT Product Lifecycle page.

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