Updated: May 31, 2023 (July 29, 2019)

  Kits & Collections

Selecting a Windows 10 Edition

My Atlas / Kits & Collections

773 wordsTime to read: 4 min
Michael Cherry by
Michael Cherry

Michael analyzed and wrote about Microsoft's operating systems, including the Windows client OS, as well as compliance and governance. Michael... more

Deciding which edition of Windows 10 best meets an organization’s client OS needs involves making several key decisions. Although Enterprise edition contains every Windows 10 feature, not every organization needs every feature, and evaluating all the features can be time consuming. However, the decision can be simplified by answering four questions about an organization’s requirements for support duration, security features, and virtual desktop infrastructure, and whether the organization will purchase Microsoft 365.

This kit summarizes the key decisions and provides links to greater detail in Directions of Microsoft reports and resources to aid in the decision-making process.

Pro vs. Enterprise: Support Life-cycle Considerations

Organizations may choose to deploy Windows 10 Enterprise edition to gain more control over the support life cycle.

The Semi-Annual Channel (SAC) version of Windows 10 Enterprise edition released in the second half of each calendar year is entitled to 30 months of support. In contrast, Pro edition versions are always entitled to only 18 months of support. Also, with Pro, Microsoft effectively controls the upgrade schedule, as it can force upgrades to the latest version as a previous version nears the end of support. Support policies have changed with the release of each new version of Windows 10, but Enterprise edition generally has the most favorable support terms.

Atlas Members have full access

Get access to this and thousands of other unbiased analyses, roadmaps, decision kits, infographics, reference guides, and more, all included with membership. Comprehensive access to the most in-depth and unbiased expertise for Microsoft enterprise decision-making is waiting.

Membership Options

Already have an account? Login Now