Windows 11 LTSC on Arm: Everything You Need to Know

Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC (Long-Term Servicing Channel) 24H2 emerges as the latest iteration in Microsoft's LTSC lineup, offering significant enhancements and new features that distinguish it from its predecessor, Windows 10 LTSC IoT Enterprise. This article delves into the key features, system requirements, and improvements of Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC 24H2.

Overview of features

Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC 24H2 is engineered to provide a stable, secure, and reliable operating system for specialized and embedded devices. Key features include:

• Modern user interface: A refreshed Start Menu, Taskbar, and Action Center, designed for improved usability and aesthetics.
• Enhanced security: Advanced threat protection, improved encryption, and hardware-based isolation to safeguard data and devices.
• Productivity tools: New and improved versions of Microsoft Edge – Internet Explorer has been removed from this build. If you still access websites that need to run on IE then Microsoft Edge has a compatibility mode built in.
• Device management: Win 11 IoT Ent 24H2 has rolled all feature updates from previous releases for a comprehensive management perspective like Intune, Controlled Windows Update notifications, Passkey, and more.
• Long-term support: Extended support lifecycle with security updates for up to 10 years, ensuring stability and reliability for critical systems.
• Restricted user experience — formerly Multi-App Kiosk Mode: Allowing OEMs and system admins to curate the users experience down to only the necessary functions for the solution. Limiting potential human security threats and highlighting the productivity of the product.

System requirements

Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2024 has specific hardware requirements to ensure optimal performance and compatibility. The system demands a processor, similar to the previous Win 10 version, with a speed of 1 GHz or faster, featuring two or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or Arm architecture. While the preferred minimum RAM requirement is 4 GB, the system can operate with as low as 2 GB. For storage, a 64 GB or larger device is recommended, although the system can function with 2 GB of memory on smaller form factor builds, particularly for products running on continuous operation application devices or on Edge devices.

Additionally, the firmware must be UEFI and Secure Boot capable.

A Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0 is preferred but optional in both SAC and LTSC for the 24H2 release.

The graphics card be compatible with DirectX 12 and support WDDM 2.x or the preferred graphics hardware should run DirectX 12 and support WDDM 2.x for the optimum performance but is optional.

The display requirements include a minimum diagonal size of 9 inches with a 700p HD resolution. However, the system is versatile and can be adjusted to accommodate custom display sizes and resolutions to meet specific needs.

Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC

Enhancements from pervious versions

• Improved performance: Optimizations for faster boot times, enhanced system responsiveness, and lower power consumption.
• Better compatibility: Broader support for a range of hardware configurations and improved backward compatibility with existing applications and peripherals.
• Advanced security features: Integration of the latest security technologies, including Windows Hello for Business, Credential Guard, and Application Guard.
• Streamlined updates: Simplified update process with cumulative updates, reducing the need for frequent, disruptive updates.

X86 platform

The x86 platform exemplifies the strength of a mature and well-understood system architecture, offering extensive compatibility with a broad spectrum of hardware and software. This version leverages the high performance of x86 systems, featuring support for multi-core processing, advanced power management, and robust virtualization capabilities. These attributes make it an ideal choice for a variety of use-case scenarios, including industrial automation, point-of-sale (POS) systems, kiosks, and other embedded applications that demand high performance and compatibility.

With Windows 11 LTSC 2024, enterprises can expect enhanced stability and efficiency tailored to meet the rigorous demands of these environments.

Arm platform

The Arm platforms leverage a power-efficient architecture that prioritizes battery life and heat dissipation, making it an ideal choice for portable and IoT devices.

Arm processors are optimized for energy efficiency, providing adequate performance for most IoT applications, even though they may not match the raw performance of high-end x86 processors.

This makes Arm-based systems best suited for use-case scenarios such as small testing equipment, automated floor products, smart devices, and other applications where power efficiency and compact design are critical.

Windows 11 LTSC ensures that these devices operate with enhanced stability and efficiency, tailored to the unique needs of energy-conscious and space-constrained environments.

Release timelines

Microsoft has been consistent on the three-year release cycle of LTSC products. The last release was for Windows 10 LTSC 21H2 in 2021.

This latest release is on the Windows 11 platform will fill the void of many regulatory industries pushing for the Windows 11 OS build. This is due to the added security features such as Windows Security Application and a more fluid adjustable firewall.

Microsoft's full write-up on the new security options is now available on their site.

Key differences

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, comprising five years of mainstream support and five years of extended support.

This extended support ensures continuous security updates and compatibility fixes, providing peace of mind for organizations investing in long-term deployments.

However, transitioning from Windows 10 LTSC to Windows 11 LTSC 24H2 requires installing a new image, as in-place upgrades are not supported.

New features in Windows 11 LTSC 24H2

• Integrated IoT specific EULA in 43 languages: Simplifies licensing and compliance for IoT deployments.
• Wireless displays using Miracast: Enables seamless projection to Windows IoT Enterprise LTSC devices with Miracast-capable hardware.
• New optional removable packages: Allows control over end-to-end packages to optimize disk space and reduce footprint. Note that removed packages cannot be re-added without reinstalling a fresh image.
• Multi-app kiosk mode: Transition from tablet mode to a Restricted User Experience with a desktop experience and controlled application usage.
• Automatic installation of MPEG2: Simplifies setup compared to the manual installation required in Windows 10 LTSC.
• HEVC codec support: Hardware acceleration for 4K and Ultra HD content playback, with software support for varied playback performance based on device hardware
• Microsoft Store access: Allows downloading applications and drivers directly from the Microsoft Store. Yes, this is a feature added to Win 11 LTSC.
• TMP requirements: Windows 11 SAC 24H2 and LTSC 24H2 will allow for optional TPM enabling.
• CoPilot exclusion: CoPilot is not included in Windows 11 LTSC.

Applications across industries and Arm compatibility

Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC 24H2 caters to a diverse range of industries, including medical, governmental, hospitality, and retail. Its compatibility with both x64 and Arm processors expands its reach, enabling deployment across a variety of devices and form factors.

Whether deployed in air-gapped environments or connected to the internet, Windows 11 LTSC IoT 24H2 offers a reliable and secure computing platform.

• Medical: Secure and reliable operating system for medical devices, ensuring stability uptime for critical moments, patient data privacy, and compliance with healthcare regulations.
• Governmental: Enhanced security features make it suitable for government agencies requiring robust protection against cyber threats. (Consult Avnet or Microsoft for details regarding any specific security-related compliances.)
• Hospitality: Streamlined operations in hotels and restaurants with reliable POS systems and management tools.
• Retail: Efficient management of inventory, customer data, and sales processes through secure and reliable embedded devices.

Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC 24H2 represents a significant advancement in Microsoft's LTSC lineup, offering enhanced features, security, and customization options. Its extended lifecycle, compatibility with x64 and Arm processors, and tailored applications make it a compelling choice for organizations seeking stability and reliability in their IT infrastructure.

As technology continues to evolve, Windows 11 LTSC 24H2 stands ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow's digital landscape.

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