diff --git a/.openpublishing.redirection.json b/.openpublishing.redirection.json index cc8bb101e..7dc8a3a27 100644 --- a/.openpublishing.redirection.json +++ b/.openpublishing.redirection.json @@ -379,6 +379,16 @@ "source_path": "surface/self-serve-warranty-service.md", "redirect_url": "/surface/surface-portals", "redirect_document_id": false - } + }, + { + "source_path": "surface/ltsb-for-surface.md", + "redirect_url": "/surface/surface-device-compatibility-with-windows-ltsc", + "redirect_document_id": false + }, + { + "source_path": "surface/surface-device-compatibility-with-windows-10-ltsc.md", + "redirect_url": "/surface/surface-device-compatibility-with-windows-ltsc", + "redirect_document_id": false + } ] } diff --git a/surface/ltsb-for-surface.md b/surface/ltsb-for-surface.md deleted file mode 100644 index fb202e130..000000000 --- a/surface/ltsb-for-surface.md +++ /dev/null @@ -1,28 +0,0 @@ ---- -title: Long-Term Servicing Channel for Surface devices -description: Learn why LTSC isn't supported for general-purpose Surface devices and should be reserved for specialized devices only, such as medical equipment or ATMs. -ms.service: surface -author: coveminer -ms.author: chauncel -ms.topic: overview -ms.reviewer: -manager: frankbu -ms.localizationpriority: medium -ms.date: 06/09/2020 ---- - -# Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) for Surface devices - ->[!WARNING] ->For updated information on this topic, see [Surface device compatibility with Windows 10 Long-Term Servicing Channel](surface-device-compatibility-with-windows-10-ltsc.md). - -General-purpose Surface devices in the Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) aren't supported. As a general guideline, if a Surface device runs productivity software, such as Microsoft Office, it's a general-purpose device that doesn't qualify for LTSC and should instead be on the Semi-Annual Channel. - ->[!NOTE] ->For more information about the servicing branches, see [Overview of Windows as a service](/windows/deployment/update/waas-overview). - -LTSC prevents Surface devices from receiving critical Windows 10 feature updates and certain nonsecurity servicing updates. Customers with poor experiences using Surface devices in the LTSC configuration are advised to switch to the Semi-Annual Channel. Furthermore, the Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB edition removes core features of Surface devices, including seamless inking and touch-friendly applications. It doesn't contain key in-box applications including Microsoft Edge, OneNote, Calendar, or Camera. Therefore, productivity is impacted and functionality is limited. LTSC isn't supported as a suitable servicing solution for general-purpose Surface devices. - -General-purpose Surface devices are intended to run on the Semi-Annual Channel to receive full servicing and firmware updates and forward compatibility with the introduction of new Surface features. In the Semi-Annual Channel, feature updates are available as soon as Microsoft releases them. - -Surface devices in specialized scenarios–such as PCs that control medical equipment, point-of-sale systems, and ATMs–might consider the use of LTSC. These special-purpose systems typically perform a single task and don't require feature updates as frequently as other devices in the organization. diff --git a/surface/surface-accessories-driver-firmware-lifecycle-support.md b/surface/surface-accessories-driver-firmware-lifecycle-support.md index b6e03ad4d..a88739373 100644 --- a/surface/surface-accessories-driver-firmware-lifecycle-support.md +++ b/surface/surface-accessories-driver-firmware-lifecycle-support.md @@ -73,6 +73,6 @@ Surface Slim Pen | October 1, 2019 | Sep ## Learn more - [Surface driver and firmware lifecycle for Windows-based devices](surface-driver-firmware-lifecycle-support.md) -- [Surface Hub devices and accessories Driver and firmware lifecycle ](/surface-hub/surface-hub-driver-firmware-accessories-lifecycle) -- [Surface device compatibility with Windows 10 Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC)](surface-device-compatibility-with-windows-10-ltsc.md) +- [Surface Hub devices and accessories Driver and firmware lifecycle](/surface-hub/surface-hub-driver-firmware-accessories-lifecycle) +- [Surface device compatibility with Windows Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC)](surface-device-compatibility-with-windows-ltsc.md) - [Surface Warranty and Support Plans](https://www.microsoft.com/surface/business/warranty-protection-plans-and-support) diff --git a/surface/surface-device-compatibility-with-windows-10-ltsc.md b/surface/surface-device-compatibility-with-windows-10-ltsc.md deleted file mode 100644 index a8aa042a7..000000000 --- a/surface/surface-device-compatibility-with-windows-10-ltsc.md +++ /dev/null @@ -1,63 +0,0 @@ ---- -title: Surface device compatibility with Windows 10 Long-Term Servicing Channel (Surface) -description: Find out about compatibility and limitations of Surface devices running Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB edition. -ms.service: surface -author: coveminer -ms.author: chauncel -ms.topic: conceptual -ms.localizationpriority: medium -ms.date: 07/21/2021 -manager: frankbu ---- - -# Surface device compatibility with Windows 10 Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) - -Surface devices are designed to provide best-in-class experiences in productivity and general-purpose scenarios. Regular updates enable Surface devices to bring innovations and include capabilities delivered by Windows Feature Updates. Feature Updates are available only in Windows 10 Pro or Windows 10 Enterprise editions that receive continuous updates through the Semi-Annual Channel (SAC). - -In contrast to the SAC servicing option, formerly known as the Current Branch (CB) or Current Branch for Business (CBB) servicing options, you can't select the Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) option in Windows 10 settings. To use the LTSC servicing option, you must install a separate edition of Windows 10 Enterprise, known as Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC, formerly known as Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB (Long-Term Servicing Branch. - ->[!TIP] ->For the latest information about LTSC, refer to the following resources:[Windows 10 release information](/windows/release-health/release-information) and [The next Windows 10 Long Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) release](https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/windows-it-pro-blog/the-next-windows-10-long-term-servicing-channel-ltsc-release/ba-p/2147232). - - In addition to providing an extended servicing model, the Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC edition also provides an environment with several Windows components removed. The core Surface experiences that LTSC impacts include: - -* Windows Feature Updates, including enhancements such as: - - * Improvements to Direct Ink and palm rejection provided in Windows 10, version 1607 (also referred to as the Anniversary Update) - * Improved support for high DPI applications provided in Windows 10, version 1703 (also referred to as the Creators Update) - -* Pressure sensitivity settings provided by the Surface app - -* The Windows Ink Workspace - -* Key touch-optimized in-box applications including Microsoft Edge, OneNote, Calendar, and Camera - -The use of the Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC environment on Surface devices results in sub-optimal end-user experiences, and you should avoid using it in environments where users want and expect a premium, up-to-date user experience. - -The LTSC servicing option is designed for device types and scenarios where the key attribute is for features or functionality to never change. Examples include power manufacturing or medical equipment systems, or embedded systems in kiosks, such as ATMs or airport ticketing systems. - ->[!NOTE] ->For general information about Windows servicing branches, including LTSC, see [Overview of Windows as a service](/windows/deployment/update/waas-overview). - -As a general guideline, devices that fulfill the following criteria are considered general-purpose devices and should be paired with Windows 10 Pro or Windows 10 Enterprise using the Semi-Annual Channel servicing option: - -* Devices that run productivity software such as Microsoft Office - -* Devices that use Microsoft Store applications - -* Devices that are used for general Internet browsing (for example, research or access to social media) - -Before you choose to use Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC edition on Surface devices, consider the following limitations: - -* Driver and firmware updates aren't explicitly tested against releases of Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC. - -* If you encounter problems, Microsoft Support will provide troubleshooting assistance. However, due to the servicing nature of the Windows LTSC, issue resolution may require that devices be upgraded to a more recent version of Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC or Windows 10 Pro or Enterprise with the SAC servicing option. - -* Surface device replacements (for example, devices replaced under warranty) may contain subtle variations in hardware components that require updated device drivers and firmware. Compatibility with these updates may require the installation of a more recent version of Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC or Windows 10 Pro or Enterprise with the SAC servicing option. - ->[!NOTE] ->Organizations that standardize on a specific version of Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC may be unable to adopt new generations of Surface hardware, such as Surface Pro 9 or Surface Laptop 5, without updating to a later version of Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC or Windows 10 Pro or Enterprise. For more information, refer to the [Lifecycle FAQ - Windows](/lifecycle/faq/windows#what-are-the-requirements-for-servicing-and-updating-the-windows-10-long-term-servicing-channel--ltsc--). - -Surface devices running Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC edition won't receive new features. In many cases, customers request these features to improve the usability and capabilities of Surface hardware. For example, further improvements for High DPI applications in Windows 10, version 1703. Customers that use Surface devices in the LTSC configuration won't see the improvements until they either update to a new Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC release or upgrade to a version of Windows 10 or Windows 11 with support for the SAC servicing option. - -Devices can be changed from Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC to a more recent version of Windows 10 Enterprise, with support for the SAC servicing option, without losing user data by performing an upgrade installation. You can also perform an upgrade installation on multiple devices by leveraging the Upgrade Task Sequence Templates available in the Microsoft Deployment Toolkit (MDT) and Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager. For more information, see [Perform an in-place upgrade to Windows 10 with MDT](/windows/deployment/deploy-windows-mdt/upgrade-to-windows-10-with-the-microsoft-deployment-toolkit). diff --git a/surface/surface-device-compatibility-with-windows-ltsc.md b/surface/surface-device-compatibility-with-windows-ltsc.md new file mode 100644 index 000000000..273b46d06 --- /dev/null +++ b/surface/surface-device-compatibility-with-windows-ltsc.md @@ -0,0 +1,57 @@ +--- +title: Surface device compatibility with Windows Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) +description: Learn how Surface devices align with Windows LTSC editions, offering stability for specialized systems, with guidance on transitions to Windows 11 +ms.service: surface +author: coveminer +ms.author: chauncel +ms.topic: conceptual +ms.localizationpriority: medium +ms.date: 10/23/2024 +manager: frankbu +--- + +# Surface device compatibility with Windows Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) + +Surface devices are designed for productivity and general-purpose use, benefiting from continuous updates delivered via the Semi-Annual Channel (SAC). However, some organizations might require the **Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC)** for special-purpose systems, such as manufacturing equipment or healthcare environments. + +> [!IMPORTANT] +> With **Windows 10** support ending on **October 14, 2025**, we recommend transitioning to **Windows 11**, **Windows 365**, or using **Extended Security Updates (ESU)** for legacy systems. See [End of support for Windows 10](https://www.microsoft.com/windows/end-of-support). + +## New LTSC for Windows 11 + +For organizations using Surface devices in scenarios where stability is more important than frequent updates—such as **medical equipment**, **ATMs**, or **point-of-sale systems**—LTSC ensures long-term reliability. These systems benefit from fewer updates, minimizing disruptions while maintaining critical functionality. + +- **Windows 11 Enterprise LTSC 2024**: Designed for specialized systems, offering long-term support with limited feature updates. +- **Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2024**: Available through OEMs or Volume Licensing, suitable for embedded systems requiring long-term maintenance. + +To learn more, see [Windows 11 Enterprise LTSC 2024](/windows/whats-new/ltsc/whats-new-windows-11-2024) and [Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2024](/windows/iot/iot-enterprise/whats-new/windows-11-iot-enterprise-ltsc-2024). + +### LTSC availability + +- **Windows 11 Enterprise LTSC 2024**: Available via Volume Licensing on a **per-user or per-device** model. +- **Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2024**: Offered through OEMs or Microsoft’s Volume Licensing program. + +## Limitations of LTSC for Surface devices + +While LTSC provides long-term stability, it might limit certain Surface features. Key experiences that rely on **Windows Feature Updates**—such as **Direct Ink improvements**, **the Surface app for pressure sensitivity settings**, and **Windows Ink Workspace**—are unavailable. + +Using LTSC with Surface devices might also limit the functionality of core apps, such as **Microsoft Edge**, **OneNote**, **Camera**, and **Calendar**, which are optimized for the Semi-Annual Channel. + +Additionally: + +- **Driver and firmware updates** aren't explicitly tested against LTSC editions, potentially leading to compatibility issues. +- **Replacement devices** might include newer hardware components that require more recent drivers, which LTSC might not support. + +## General-purpose Surface devices and LTSC + +Surface devices that run **productivity apps like Microsoft Office**, **access Microsoft Store apps**, or **browse the internet** should remain on **Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise**, using the Semi-Annual Channel to receive the latest features and security patches. + +> [!NOTE] +> Organizations using a specific LTSC version may need to upgrade to newer LTSC releases or switch to **Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise** to maintain compatibility with new Surface hardware, such as **Surface Pro 10** or **Surface Laptop 6**. For more information, see [Windows LTSC Lifecycle FAQ](/lifecycle/faq/windows#what-are-the-requirements-for-servicing-and-updating-the-windows-10-long-term-servicing-channel--ltsc--). + +## Recommendations for organizations using LTSC + +For devices that only perform **single-task functions**, such as kiosks or embedded systems, LTSC offers a stable environment with minimal updates. However, for most other cases, organizations should: + +- **Use SAC with Windows 11**: This solution ensures access to the latest Surface features, drivers, and firmware updates. +- **Transition from Windows 10 LTSC**: Perform **in-place upgrades** to Windows 11 using **Endpoint Configuration Manager** to avoid compatibility issues with new hardware. \ No newline at end of file diff --git a/surface/surface-driver-firmware-lifecycle-support.md b/surface/surface-driver-firmware-lifecycle-support.md index b26acf690..99450c329 100644 --- a/surface/surface-driver-firmware-lifecycle-support.md +++ b/surface/surface-driver-firmware-lifecycle-support.md @@ -112,6 +112,6 @@ The following table lists products that have passed their end-of-servicing date - [Surface accessories driver and firmware lifecycle](surface-accessories-driver-firmware-lifecycle-support.md) - [Driver and firmware lifecycle for Surface Hub devices and accessories](/surface-hub/surface-hub-driver-firmware-accessories-lifecycle) - [Manage and deploy Surface driver and firmware updates](manage-surface-driver-and-firmware-updates.md) -- [Surface device compatibility with Windows 10 Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC)](surface-device-compatibility-with-windows-10-ltsc.md) +- [Surface device compatibility with Windows Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC)](surface-device-compatibility-with-windows-ltsc.md) - [Surface Warranty and Support Plans](https://www.microsoft.com/surface/business/warranty-protection-plans-and-support) - [Surface update history](https://support.microsoft.com/surface/surface-update-history-6036fff5-edec-c8ec-9796-a5633aac9488) diff --git a/surface/surface-supported-operating-systems.md b/surface/surface-supported-operating-systems.md index 89713b413..2708ea3cf 100644 --- a/surface/surface-supported-operating-systems.md +++ b/surface/surface-supported-operating-systems.md @@ -114,4 +114,4 @@ This article lists the versions of Windows that are supported on the Business an ## More information Surface Pro devices are optimized for 64-bit versions of the operating system. On these devices, 32-bit versions of Windows are unsupported. If a 32-bit version of the operating system is installed, it may not start correctly. This may occur if you try to start from external media, such as an attached USB or DVD drive. This may also occur if you try to start to an image that was applied to the local disk. -For additional information about LTSC support see [Surface device compatibility with Windows 10 Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC)](surface-device-compatibility-with-windows-10-ltsc.md). +For additional information about LTSC support see [Surface device compatibility with Windows Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC)](surface-device-compatibility-with-windows-ltsc.md) diff --git a/surface/toc.yml b/surface/toc.yml index e4e4500ef..6ca9c61f0 100644 --- a/surface/toc.yml +++ b/surface/toc.yml @@ -65,10 +65,8 @@ href: surface-driver-firmware-lifecycle-support.md - name: Surface accessories driver & firmware lifecycle href: surface-accessories-driver-firmware-lifecycle-support.md - - name: Surface device compatibility with Windows 10 Long-Term Servicing Branch - href: surface-device-compatibility-with-windows-10-ltsc.md - - name: Long-Term Servicing Branch for Surface devices - href: ltsb-for-surface.md + - name: Surface device compatibility with Windows LTSC + href: surface-device-compatibility-with-windows-ltsc.md - name: Ethernet adapters & Surface deployment href: ethernet-adapters-and-surface-device-deployment.md - name: Surface System SKU reference