In October 2023 Microsoft released the new Windows 11. As already known from previous licenses, different versions of this operating system are available. It is past time for us to clarify which versions of Windows 11 are available and what it can in comparison to Windows 10.
Windows 11 versions
With Windows 11 Microsoft released six different versions of the operating system for different applications.
Windows 11 Home
Windows 11 Pro, Pro for Education & Pro for Workstation
Windows 11 Education
Windows 11 Enterprise (full version)
Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC
The home version of the new Windows operating system is the basic feature of the different editions, it includes all standard features such as Microsoft Edge, the new store, desktop management, input methods, widgets and more.
The Windows 11 Pro versions include, as well as the Home version, all standard features with a few additional aspects designed specifically for businesses. It includes, for example BitLocker, with which data can be saved if your device is stolen or a data leak appears.
Just like the classic Windows 11 Enterprise, this IoT version includes all the features, but also specifically designed for embedded devices. It offers many innovations that focus on improving the flexible and fluid experience of the end user. Windows 11 IoT Enterprise is supposed to be the most reliable, secure, connected and powerful Windows operating system.
This operating system is based on Windows 10 IoT Enterprise, continuing the investments made in update and device management tools. Most accessories and related drivers that work with Windows 10 IoT Enterprise also work with the new Windows 11 IoT Enterprise.
Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC provides a stable and long-term supported platform with a support cycle of up to 10 years, making it ideal for critical and immutable applications. It focuses on security updates and critical fixes, without the frequent feature updates found in other versions of Windows. This stability and predictability are especially important for industrial control systems, medical devices and other embedded systems that need to operate reliably over a long period of time. The LTSC version minimises downtime and disruption from updates, making it an optimal choice for environments that require continuous uptime. It also offers the familiar Windows security and management features that enable easy integration and management in existing IT infrastructures.
Aside from a few new features, Windows 11 is very similar to Windows 10, only slightly nicer, for example by the visual adjustments of the icons or the start menu. However, new features of Windows 11 are more than sufficient:
From a new start menu and taskbar design to a new widget area, to snap groups that allow the screen to be designed and set up more flexible than ever before. The new Windows 11 has new features for every area of interest. Even though the new start menu is somehow reminding of the macOS operating system, it is clearer and shows the recently most used files. Further adjustments were made to the Microsoft Store, the Microsoft Teams app (which is now installed from scratch) and the layout on tablets.
With Windows 11, Microsoft places high demands on devices, the operating system can only be installed on processors manufactured in 2016/2017 (for Intel PCs from the 8th Pentium and atom chips).
Other minimum requirements are:
In addition, Windows 11 requires a Microsoft account, which was not necessary for previous versions.
And of course several of our Mini-PCs are compatible with Windows 11 If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
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