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    Windows 10: What You Need to Know About the End-of-Life and Transition to Windows 11

    Many companies are concerned about the upcoming end of Windows 10 and are considering upgrading to Windows 11. However, this is not necessary for everyone, especially for users of Windows 10 Industrial (Windows IoT LTSC). This version offers extended support and is specifically designed for stable industrial applications. At Arcobel, we understand how important it is to have a reliable solution that is not disrupted by unnecessary updates. In this article, we explain the differences between the standard and industrial versions of Windows 10 and the best strategy for your organization.

    The Difference Between Standard and Industrial Windows 10
    Windows 10 IoT LTSC is specially developed for industrial applications where stability and long-term support are crucial. Unlike the standard version, which receives regular feature updates, the IoT LTSC version remains stable as it only receives security updates. This means that your business processes are not interrupted by unexpected software changes. Additionally, the industrial version offers longer support, often up to ten years, ensuring businesses of long-term security and compatibility. Windows 10 IoT LTSC can also be fully customized to meet specific customer needs, such as kiosk applications where the operating system remains completely hidden during boot.

    Common Misconceptions
    There are several persistent misconceptions about the end-of-life of Windows 10 Industrial. A common misunderstanding is that security updates for the industrial version will end as quickly as the standard version. However, this is not the case; industrial versions are supported for a longer period, meaning that transitioning is not yet necessary. Some customers also believe that Windows IoT LTSC cannot be updated. Although this version does not receive feature updates, it continues to receive crucial security updates. Upgrading to a new version requires a complete reinstallation of the operating system.

    Support and Important Dates
    To help businesses plan their IT strategy, it is important to know the various support dates:

    • Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSB 2016: Supported until 2026
    • Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2019: Supported until 2029
    • Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021: Supported until 2032

    This means that businesses using one of these versions do not need to rush an upgrade. At Arcobel, we are happy to assist in creating a future-proof plan for your organization.

    Should You Upgrade to Windows 11 Industrial Now?
    For companies that currently have a stable solution and still receive security updates, an upgrade to Windows 11 is not immediately necessary. However, if you are developing a new solution, it is advisable to start with the latest version to remain future-proof. Windows 11 offers additional security features such as Secure Boot and TPM 2.0, which are becoming increasingly important in cybersecurity.

    Benefits of Staying with Windows 10 Industrial
    Although Windows 11 offers attractive new features, there are good reasons to stick with Windows 10 Industrial for now:

    • Users are familiar with the current work environment, which can prevent the need for additional training when upgrading.
    • Existing software solutions may not yet be fully tested or optimized for Windows 11.
    • Hardware support can be challenging, as manufacturers primarily focus on the latest operating system.

    At Arcobel, we support customers in weighing these factors and making the right choice for their business.

    Preparing for the Future
    To be well-prepared for future transitions, it is important to consider developments in cybersecurity and hardware. Microsoft is heavily focused on security with Windows 11, featuring technologies such as Secure Boot and TPM 2.0. Additionally, hardware manufacturers like NVIDIA are increasingly focusing on the latest operating systems, meaning that new drivers will be available for Windows 11 first. Windows 11 also supports ARM-based platforms, providing benefits for IoT devices with limited processing power.

    Conclusion
    The industrial versions of Windows 10 will continue to be supported for years to come, meaning businesses do not need to rush into upgrading to Windows 11. It is essential to have a well-thought-out migration strategy and to assess the needs of your organization. At Arcobel, we provide expert advice and support to ensure your industrial systems remain secure and up-to-date.

    Do you have questions about the best approach for your company? Contact us today.