Windows Client Timeline as of May 2018

The accompanying timeline shows anticipated release and retirement dates of Windows client OS versions for enterprises. It includes Windows 10 versions in the following channels:

Semi-Annual Channel (SAC), which is intended for business desktops. Prior to version 1709 it was called the Current Branch for Business. The SAC delivers new versions of Windows 10 twice annually, with each version receiving support for 18 months.

Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC), which is intended only for specialized devices, such as point-of-sale terminals. Prior to version 1709 it was called the Long-Term Servicing Branch. The LTSC delivers new versions of Windows 10 once every two to three years, with each version receiving five years of Mainstream support and five years of Extended support.

Microsoft’s “Windows as a Service” policy for Windows 10 originally promised a stable and predictable service and support cycle, but the policy has changed frequently. Since the first version of Windows 10 (1507), each SAC version has received an extension of support beyond what the policy in effect originally specified. This pattern suggests that many organizations are deploying Windows 10 versions much slower than anticipated, which could signal either migration difficulties or lack of compelling features for enterprises. Continued slow deployment could lead Microsoft to further change policies; for example, Microsoft might shift from the SAC to annual version releases and offer 24 months of support for each version. However, Microsoft has not announced or clarified the policy, and the approach of support deadlines for Windows 7 means that organizations should be executing a migration plan to Windows 10 now, regardless of Microsoft’s changing service and support policies.