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Surface device compatibility with Windows Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC)

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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.

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 and 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.

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 Configuration Manager to avoid compatibility issues with new hardware.