- Published on
Win10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 will stop support next year, Microsoft recommends users upgrade to Win11
- Authors
- Name
- DeepHorus
Microsoft recently updated its support documentation, announcing that the end-of-service date for Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 (non-IoT edition) is January 27, 2027, after which security updates will no longer be provided. Microsoft advises users to plan their migration path as soon as possible and clearly states that the most recommended option is to upgrade to Windows 11 Enterprise LTSC 2024 to receive ongoing security support and a better experience. This news means that enterprise users still on this long-term servicing version must make a decision within the next year and a half.
Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 was released in 2021, primarily targeting enterprises that require a long-term stable environment. As its lifecycle nears its end, Microsoft emphasized this 'important milestone' in the support documentation, reminding users to make decisions in advance. The final security update for this version will be released on January 27, 2027, and continued use after that will pose security risks.
For users who wish to continue using this version, Microsoft offers the paid Extended Security Updates (ESU) option. Starting September 1, enterprise users can purchase ESU at a price of $61 per device (approximately RMB 412.3 yuan). However, regular consumers cannot obtain ESU for free through the LTSC version; only Windows 10 Home and Pro users can enjoy the relevant security updates for free.
Meanwhile, the overall lifecycle of Windows 10 has also drawn attention. Although the extended support was originally planned to end in October 2026, Microsoft has extended the support period to October 2027 because at least 30% of computers are still running Windows 10. This means all Windows 10 users, including Home and Pro editions, must upgrade to Windows 11 by October 2027 at the latest, or they will no longer receive any security patches.
The so-called LTSC (Long-Term Servicing Channel) is a simplified version of Windows, designed specifically for scenarios that require long-term stable support. Unlike other versions, LTSC does not come with preinstalled modern apps such as MSN Weather, Clipchamp, and Microsoft Photos, and it does not even include Copilot functionality, resulting in a cleaner interface. However, classic versions of Notepad, Calculator, and Paint are retained, though they are not the latest WinUI versions; Microsoft account login and AI features have also been removed.
This feature makes LTSC versions quite popular among users seeking a streamlined experience. Windows 11 LTSC follows the same design philosophy, keeping only Microsoft Edge as the default browser and disabling the widgets panel and MSN news feed, resulting in a slight improvement in system performance. For enterprises that value system purity and controllability, this is undoubtedly an attractive option.
Microsoft stated that upgrading to Windows 11 Enterprise LTSC 2024 will provide the latest security features and a longer support lifecycle, which are not available with continued use of the old Windows 10. Microsoft also emphasized that Windows 11 is the most secure Windows version to date. As the support deadline approaches, enterprise users need to weigh the options between paying for extended updates and system migration. Industry experts point out that planning upgrades early can reduce security risks and avoid the operational pressure caused by last-minute migration. In the future, Microsoft is likely to gradually reduce its support investment in Windows 10, pushing users to transition to the Windows 11 ecosystem. Users should also choose the right migration timing based on their own needs to ensure system security and business continuity.
