Windows Client Servicing Plans

Windows 10 will offer a range of options for how the OS is released and serviced (including when security updates, new features, and major releases are first delivered or required). Consumers and organizations that want to deploy and test new features and updates quickly will be able to use the Windows Insider Program (WIP) and the Current Branch. Two different processes will be offered to businesses to maintain Windows 10 on production PCs and other devices that require more stability: the Current Branch for Business or a Long-Term Servicing Branch.

Windows 10 will be offered in several commercial editions, including Home, Pro, Enterprise, and Education. Some servicing options will depend on the edition purchased, which could lead organizations to change their purchase strategies for Windows.

Windows Insider Program

The WIP will permit expert consumers and organizations that want to evaluate the OS’s new features and user interface (UI) redesign to do so before formal release. Because such preview builds are released while under development and testing, prior to the final release, they are provided as is, without support, and therefore intended only for nonproduction purposes.