- Windows 10 LTSC maintains security patches beyond 2025 (Enterprise until 2027 and IoT until 2032).
- Less bloatware and more stability: no Store or modern apps, with improved performance and control.
- Special licensing: not sold to the public; evaluation ISO, legitimate resellers, and avoid unofficial activators.
- Alternatives: Upgrade to Windows 11 (with or without TPM) or migrate to Linux if you need modern features.
is he approaching end of support for your Windows 10 And you're worried your PC might be unprotected? Don't worry: there's life beyond October 2025 without having to change your computer or take unnecessary risks. There's an official, little-known edition. Windows 10 LTSC.
Thanks to it, we can extend security for years, maintain performance, and continue working without problems. Below, we'll tell you more. everything you should know.
What is Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC and why it matters?
When a system enters end of support, stop receiving security patches and critical fixesThat's exactly what's happening with Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, for consumer editions (Home and Pro). The exception is the Long-Term Servicing Channel editions: Windows 10 LTSC (Long-Term Servicing Channel), designed for environments where stability comes first.
Within LTSC there are two major options in Windows 10:
Enterprise LTSC 2021, whose official support lasts until 2027
IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021, which stretches that security window until January 2032. Although "IoT" sounds like embedded devices, This edition runs perfectly on a home PC, maintaining the traditional Windows 10 aesthetic and adding extra control and cleanliness.
The most relevant thing is that Microsoft does not market it as a product for the general public.It targets companies and manufacturers (OEMs) through volume licensing and specific agreements. This explains its low marketing profile, and the fact that many people don't even know it exists.
Key advantages of Windows 10 LTSC over Home/Pro
The reason for these editions is very specific: maximum stability, fewer shifts and long-lasting supportTranslated into practice, the benefits package is hard to ignore if you want to extend the life of your equipment without any problems.
- Longer support: Enterprise LTSC 2021 is covered until 2027 and IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 until January 13, 2032, with security patches without the need to pay for extra programs like ESU.
- Finer performance: Most pre-installed apps and unnecessary components (Cortana, OneDrive, Store, widgets, etc.) are removed, leaving a cleaner system with less RAM consumption and faster starts.
- Stability by design: LTSC does not add new features every now and then; receives only critical corrections, reducing the risk of failures and conflicts with drivers or software.
- Moderate requirements: by sticking to the Windows 10 ecosystem, does not require TPM 2.0 or modern CPUs like Windows 11. Ideal for computers that are still perfectly valid.
- No Microsoft account required: you can install and use a local account from the very beginning, without internet, something highly valued by those who prioritize privacy.
LTSC Enterprise vs IoT Enterprise: Which is Right for You?
If you just need to "buy time" for a few years, Enterprise LTSC 2021 covers until 2027 and may be sufficient for a transition phase. If you are looking for long haul with patches until 2032, IoT Enterprise LTSC It is the most solid bet, especially if your computer is not a candidate for Windows 11.
Both share deliberate cuts: does not include Microsoft Store nor built-in modern apps, and may lack integrations like Xbox Game Bar or some Microsoft 365 components. For many, this is a plus; for others, a hindrance. If you depend on the Store or certain UWP apps, evaluate carefully before taking the leap.
Another practical difference is access. Windows 10 LTSC is volume licensed and not purchased as a Home/Pro version at retail. Although there are legitimate resellers who distribute keys valid for a few computers (even one), It is advisable to be meticulous to avoid problems.
Upgrade to Windows 11: Options and shortcuts if your PC doesn't meet the requirements
If you prefer to move to Windows 11, The upgrade is free with your valid Windows 10 license and retains activation. The main obstacle is the requirements (TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and a list of supported CPUs), but they're not always beyond your reach.
In many teams, TPM is present but disabled; it's usually enabled through the UEFI/BIOS. If not, there's an official way to enable upgrades on unsupported hardware with a registry change. Add the key by doing the following:
reg add HKLM\SYSTEM\Setup\MoSetup /f /v AllowUpgradesWithUnsupportedTPMorCPU /d 1 /t reg_dword
There are more ways. The Windows Insider Program It gives you free access to early builds (Dev/Beta/Release Preview channels) in exchange for tolerating occasional bugs. There are also tools that simplify downloading/installing, such as this script by Chris Titus Tech: irm «https://christitus.com/win» | iex (MicroWin tab). And projects like Flyoobe (on GitHub) help you install Windows 11 on unsupported computers, dispensing with AI features. Use these paths at your own risk. always from official sources and checking hashes.
How to Get Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC Legitimately
The first: Microsoft does not directly sell LTSC keys to the public.. These licenses are obtained through volume contracts, specific subscriptions (e.g., Visual Studio), or as part of OEM agreements. However, there are serious resellers that offer keys valid for use on a single computer.
To try before you buy, You can download an evaluation ISO From the Microsoft Evaluation Center. It offers 90 days of free use; after that, you'll need to activate with a valid Enterprise LTSC key. Note: Many IoT builds come in English by default., but you can add the Spanish language pack after installation.
In the commercial field, there are stores that promote keys with strong discountsA well-known example is GvGMall Spain, where they have offered Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 "for life" for €9,7 and Windows 11 Enterprise LTSC 2024 for €12,9 by applying the coupon GVGMM during specific campaigns (along with other Windows 10/11 and Office OEM keys at different prices). Always check reputation, return policy and support before paying.
About "free" methods: unofficial activation tools are circulating such as MASsgraveUsing them may violate Microsoft's license and poses stability and security risks; not recommended Turn to them for a work or personal team. If you value your time and data, go for them legitimate keys.
Installation: practical aspects to take into account
Moving to Windows 10 LTSC from Home/Pro means, in practice, a clean installation. There's no direct "edit change" and you'll keep everything. Download the ISO (evaluation or legitimate source), Create a bootable USB with Rufus and back up your data before you start.
The wizard is the same as always: select partition, install, choose local account and, if you prefer, You disconnect the internet to avoid unnecessary stepsAfter the first boot, install the manufacturer's drivers and add the Spanish language pack if your ISO didn't come with it by default.
Remember that LTSC does not include Microsoft StoreIf you need a UWP app, consider Win32 alternatives or web versions. The browser Microsoft Edge is present, and you can install Chrome, Firefox, etc., just like on any Windows 10.
Pros and cons of betting on LTSC today
If you're looking for a system that "doesn't bother you", Windows 10 LTSC It is probably the most stable and predictable within the Windows world. For computers that aren't Windows 11-compliant, it's an orderly and official release that extends security for many more years.
The counterpart is clear: you opt out of the Microsoft Store already part of the modern ecosystem. Also, even if LTSC receives patches, compatibility with very new software or peripherals could be more capricious with time.
If your workflow relies on classic Win32 applications, modern browsers, and productivity suites, you will function smoothlyIf your daily routine revolves around UWP apps or recent integrations into the Microsoft 365 ecosystem, consider whether migrating to Windows 11 is better for you.
The picture is clear: Windows 10 LTSC lets you keep your current computer, without rushing and with less noise, but it's not for everyone. If stability and security are your thing, it's a great fit; if you want the latest in features and integrations, Windows 11 will give you more play to future.
Editor specialized in technology and internet issues with more than ten years of experience in different digital media. I have worked as an editor and content creator for e-commerce, communication, online marketing and advertising companies. I have also written on economics, finance and other sectors websites. My work is also my passion. Now, through my articles in Tecnobits, I try to explore all the news and new opportunities that the world of technology offers us every day to improve our lives.