As the end of support for Windows 10 approaches this October, users who are content with their current operating system may find themselves at a crossroads. While the allure of upgrading to Windows 11 is strong, many PCs simply do not meet the new system requirements. Fortunately, there are alternatives that do not necessitate purchasing new hardware or switching to a different operating system, such as Linux, which some tech enthusiasts might suggest.
Exploring Long-Term Support Options
For those who wish to continue using Windows 10 without the impending deadline weighing on them, it’s worth noting that two editions of Windows 10 will remain supported for a significant period. One version will receive updates for an additional two years, while another is set to enjoy support for up to seven more years.
Windows has evolved considerably since the days of XP, with a multitude of editions available. Windows 10 originally launched with seven different versions, ranging from “Home” to “Enterprise,” all of which are now facing the same fate as the rest come October. However, there are specialized editions designed for business users that offer a more stable alternative: the Windows Enterprise Long Term Servicing Channel (LTSC).
Currently, there are four LTSC versions of Windows 10, with the latest being Windows 10 LTSC 2021, a long-term support variant of Windows 10 21H2, released in November 2021. This edition will receive mainstream support until January 12, 2027, while the Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 extends support until January 13, 2032.
These LTSC versions differ from the standard consumer editions, lacking the Windows Store and many modern applications. Users will find a more streamlined experience, with only essential features included, such as the Edge browser and Windows Defender antivirus, alongside classic tools like Notepad and Wordpad. This minimalistic approach may appeal to those who prefer a less cluttered interface.
During installation, users may encounter a prompt to connect to a Windows enterprise account. If this fails, they will have the option to create a local account. Once installed, users should check the activation status. It’s important to note that LTSC editions require an enterprise product key for activation, which can be obtained through a Volume License Agreement for as few as five machines, with some vendors potentially offering single-machine licenses.
While the differences between the standard and IoT editions may seem subtle, the IoT version is a full local client of Windows, albeit limited to US English as the system language. In contrast, the standard LTSC version supports 38 different languages, catering to a broader audience.
One key characteristic of LTSC editions is their lack of version upgrades. Users will remain on version 21H2, build 19044 indefinitely. To access newer builds, a complete reinstallation of the OS and applications will be necessary. However, with no further versions of Windows 10 planned after this year, this limitation may not be as significant as it seems.
For those interested in exploring LTSC versions, they are not readily available on the standard Microsoft download page. Evaluation Enterprise ISO files can be found, but they come with time restrictions. Once a user acquires an enterprise license, they can access the necessary files through the Microsoft portal.
For the average user, a practical option is to explore the cheerful platform known as MASsgrave, which hosts LTSC ISO files for various regions. This site also provides tools for activating the Enterprise edition on any hardware, although caution is advised as using these tools may contravene Microsoft’s licensing agreements.
Considering Third-Party Alternatives
In addition to official options, there are unauthorized third-party Windows distributions available. Historically, users have created custom installations using tools like NLite, which allowed for a stripped-down version of Windows XP. Today, similar products exist, such as Tiny11, Atlas OS, ReviOS, and Windows X-Lite, each offering unique features and optimizations.
While these alternatives may provide intriguing solutions, potential users should be aware that utilizing modified Windows builds could violate Microsoft’s terms of service. As the landscape of Windows continues to evolve, the possibility of an LTSC version based on the last update to Windows 10 remains a topic of speculation, along with the emergence of remix distributions.
