Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC (Long-Term Servicing Channel) 24H2 has made its debut, marking a notable evolution in Microsoft’s LTSC offerings. This latest version brings a host of enhancements and features that set it apart from its predecessor, Windows 10 LTSC IoT Enterprise. The following sections explore the key features, system requirements, and improvements that characterize Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC 24H2.
Overview of features
Designed to deliver a stable, secure, and reliable operating system for specialized and embedded devices, Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC 24H2 introduces several key features:
- Modern user interface: A redesigned Start Menu, Taskbar, and Action Center enhance usability and visual appeal.
- Enhanced security: Advanced threat protection, improved encryption, and hardware-based isolation work together to protect data and devices.
- Productivity tools: The new version of Microsoft Edge replaces Internet Explorer, which has been removed. Edge includes a compatibility mode for sites that still require IE.
- Device management: Comprehensive management capabilities, including Intune integration, Controlled Windows Update notifications, and Passkey support, consolidate previous feature updates.
- Long-term support: A commitment to an extended support lifecycle, providing security updates for up to 10 years, ensures stability for critical systems.
- Restricted user experience: Formerly known as Multi-App Kiosk Mode, this feature allows OEMs and system administrators to tailor the user experience to essential functions, minimizing potential security risks while maximizing productivity.
System requirements
To ensure optimal performance and compatibility, Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2024 has specific hardware requirements. These include:
- A processor with a speed of 1 GHz or faster, featuring two or more cores on a compatible 64-bit or Arm architecture.
- A preferred minimum RAM of 4 GB, though the system can operate with as little as 2 GB.
- A recommended storage capacity of 64 GB or larger, with functionality on smaller devices for continuous operation applications.
- UEFI firmware with Secure Boot capability.
- A Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0 is preferred but optional.
- A graphics card compatible with DirectX 12, supporting WDDM 2.x for optimal performance.
- A minimum display size of 9 inches with a resolution of 700p HD, adjustable for custom display needs.
Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC Enhancements from previous versions
Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC 24H2 brings several enhancements over its predecessor:
- Improved performance: Optimizations lead to faster boot times, enhanced system responsiveness, and reduced power consumption.
- Better compatibility: Broader hardware support and improved backward compatibility with existing applications and peripherals.
- Advanced security features: Integration of cutting-edge security technologies, including Windows Hello for Business, Credential Guard, and Application Guard.
- Streamlined updates: A simplified update process with cumulative updates reduces the frequency of disruptive updates.
X86 platform
The x86 platform showcases a robust and well-established system architecture, offering extensive compatibility with a wide range of hardware and software. This version capitalizes on the high performance of x86 systems, supporting multi-core processing, advanced power management, and strong virtualization capabilities. Such attributes make it well-suited for various applications, including industrial automation, point-of-sale (POS) systems, kiosks, and other embedded solutions requiring high performance and compatibility.
Arm platform
The Arm platforms utilize a power-efficient architecture, emphasizing battery life and heat management, making them ideal for portable and IoT devices. While Arm processors may not deliver the raw performance of high-end x86 processors, they are optimized for energy efficiency, catering to most IoT applications. This makes them particularly suitable for small testing equipment, automated floor products, smart devices, and other applications where power efficiency and compact design are paramount.
Release timelines
Microsoft adheres to a consistent three-year release cycle for LTSC products, with the last release being Windows 10 LTSC 21H2 in 2021. The introduction of Windows 11 on this platform addresses the needs of various regulatory industries that are increasingly pushing for the Windows 11 OS build, thanks to its enhanced security features and a more adaptable firewall. For further details on the new security options, Microsoft’s full write-up is available on their site.
Key differences
When comparing Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC with Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC 24H2, several key differences emerge:
- Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC:
- Interface: Classic Windows 10 interface.
- Security features: Basic security features, with optional BitLocker and TPM support.
- Performance: Stable and reliable for existing hardware and applications.
- Compatibility: Broad compatibility with older hardware and software.
- Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC 24H2:
- Interface: Modernized Windows 11 interface with enhanced usability.
- Security features: Advanced security features, including Pluton, Credential Guard, and Application Guard.
- Performance: Optimized for faster boot times and lower power consumption.
- Compatibility: Improved compatibility with a range of hardware configurations and applications, with specific enhancements for Arm platforms.
Transition and lifecycle management
Windows 11 LTSC 24H2 follows a 10-year lifecycle, consisting of five years of mainstream support and five years of extended support. This extended support guarantees ongoing security updates and compatibility fixes, providing reassurance for organizations committed to long-term deployments. However, transitioning from Windows 10 LTSC to Windows 11 LTSC 24H2 necessitates the installation of a new image, as in-place upgrades are not supported.
New features in Windows 11 LTSC 24H2
Among the new features introduced in Windows 11 LTSC 24H2 are:
- Integrated IoT-specific EULA in 43 languages, simplifying licensing and compliance for IoT deployments.
- Wireless display capabilities using Miracast for seamless projection to compatible Windows IoT Enterprise LTSC devices.
- New optional removable packages, allowing control over end-to-end packages to optimize disk space and reduce footprint.
- Multi-app kiosk mode, transitioning from tablet mode to a Restricted User Experience with a desktop interface and controlled application usage.
- Automatic installation of MPEG2, simplifying setup compared to the manual installation required in Windows 10 LTSC.
- HEVC codec support, enabling hardware acceleration for 4K and Ultra HD content playback.
- Access to the Microsoft Store for downloading applications and drivers directly.
- Optional TPM enabling for enhanced security.
- CoPilot exclusion, as CoPilot is not included in Windows 11 LTSC.
Applications across industries and Arm compatibility
Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC 24H2 is designed for a diverse array of industries, including medical, governmental, hospitality, and retail. Its compatibility with both x64 and Arm processors broadens its deployment potential across various devices and form factors. Whether utilized in air-gapped environments or connected to the internet, Windows 11 LTSC IoT 24H2 provides a reliable and secure computing platform.
- Medical: A secure operating system for medical devices, ensuring stability and compliance with healthcare regulations.
- Governmental: Enhanced security features cater to government agencies requiring robust protection against cyber threats.
- Hospitality: Streamlined operations in hotels and restaurants through reliable POS systems and management tools.
- Retail: Efficient management of inventory, customer data, and sales processes via secure embedded devices.
Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC 24H2 signifies a substantial advancement in Microsoft’s LTSC lineup, offering enhanced features, security, and customization options. Its extended lifecycle and compatibility with both x64 and Arm processors make it an attractive choice for organizations prioritizing stability and reliability in their IT infrastructure.
For any inquiries regarding Microsoft Windows 11, Avnet, one of the largest global providers of Microsoft software for device makers, is available at software@avnet.com. Alternatively, you can fill out a contact form to request information on how Avnet can assist in bringing your solution to market, emphasizing personal communication to support your Microsoft needs.
For further details, please refer to Microsoft or reach out to Avnet.
