Windows 10 ltsc 2021 дата выхода

Microsoft на днях анонсировала Office 2021, и компания использовала эту возможность, чтобы также представить новую политику обновления не только для пакета повышения производительности, но и для своей операционной системы Windows 10.

Office LTSC и Windows 10 LTSC получат поддержку всего на 5 лет вперед (канал долгосрочного обслуживания для операционной системы ранее имел право на 10 лет обновлений), и это изменение вступит в силу позже в этом году, когда появятся новые версии системы.

«В этом выпуске мы приведем Office и Windows в соответствие с поддержкой одних и тех же ограниченных сценариев. И Office LTSC, и Windows 10 LTSC по-прежнему будут регулироваться Политикой фиксированного жизненного цикла. Оба продукта будут поддерживаться в течение пяти лет, и следующая бессрочная версия Office LTSC и Windows 10 LTSC будут выпущены во второй половине этого календарного года», – сообщает Microsoft.

Office LTSC и Microsoft 365 под одной крышей

Microsoft объясняет, что, хотя некоторым клиентам действительно нужна локальная версия Office на своих устройствах, они вполне могут установить Microsoft 365, когда это возможно.

«Мы создали Office LTSC для ограниченного набора конкретных ситуаций: регулируемые устройства, которые не могут принимать обновления функций в течение многих лет, устройства управления процессами на производственном участке, которые не подключены к Интернету, и специальные системы, которые требуют долгосрочного канала обслуживания. Мы ожидаем, что большинство клиентов, использующих Office LTSC, будут делать это не во всей организации, а только в определенных сценариях. Хорошая новость заключается в том, что вы можете развернуть и Office LTSC, и версию Office для Microsoft 365 с помощью одних и тех же инструментов развертывания», – говорится в сообщении.

Что касается Windows 10, то следующий выпуск LTSC состоится осенью, возможно, после дебюта обновления 21H2, над которым уже работает Microsoft.

Если открыть любой обзор корпоративных версий Windows 10 LTSC и LTSB, в комментариях вы наверняка наткнетесь на яростный спор их приверженцев с пользователями обычной Windows 10. Причем аргументы обеих сторон не лишены логики и здравого смысла и, похоже, этому спору не будет конца. Корпоративные версии Windows 10 лишены магазина приложений Microsoft Store и большинства UWP-приложений, но при желании их можно вернуть туда с помощью довольно простых действий.

Но если без Microsoft Store можно прожить даже на игровом ПК, а для UWP-приложений легко найти замену среди бесплатных программ, то ограничение версии Windows 10 LTSC стало серьезной проблемой для некоторых игр. Современные игры все чаще требуют новую версию Windows 10 для запуска, например, Age of Empires: Definitive Edition, Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition и Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition требуют Windows 10 версии 1903 и выше. 

Такую же версию Windows 10 требуют авиасимулятор Microsoft Flight Simulator, приключенческий шутер State of Decay 2: Juggernaut Edition и шутер Gears 5, и пользователи Windows 10 LTSC версии 1809 запустить их не могли. Такая же ситуация продолжится и в дальнейшем, но новая Windows 10 LTSC 2021 с версией 21H2 в этом плане пока дает возможность запускать новые игры и сохранит эту возможность еще долго.

Еще одна проблема Windows 10 LTSC в домашнем использовании проявляется в том случае, если вы используете новые комплектующие. Например, оптимизации под процессоры AMD Ryzen, увеличивающие их производительность и появившиеся в Windows 10 версии 1903, до Windows 10 LTSC добрались только спустя полтора года. Windows Display Driver Model, влияющий на производительность ПК в играх и приносящий новые функции, обновляется на Windows 10 LTSC заметно реже.

Если в Windows 10 May 2020 Update (версия 2004) появилась поддержка WDDM 2.7, дающего возможности планирование графического процессора с аппаратным ускорением и DirectX Raytracing (DXR) Tier 1.1, то Windows 10 LTSC версии 1809 обходилась только версией WDDM 2.5. Поэтому для современного производительного игрового ПК Windows 10 LTSC будет не лучшим выбором и лучше обратить внимание на обычную Windows 10.

Как видите, минусов у Windows 10 LTSC немало, и к ним еще стоит добавить проблемы с домашним лицензированием. Но ознакомительную 90 дневную версию Windows 10 LTSC Microsoft разрешает скачать со своего сайта.

Но чем же Windows 10 LTSC привлекает пользователей? В первую очередь — отсутствием так называемого программного «хлама» и «мусора», от которого большинство пользователей стараются избавиться. Посмотрите, как лаконично выглядит меню «Пуск» и панель задач у Windows 10 LTSC 2021, хотя вездесущий браузер Microsoft Edge проник и сюда:

А вот это меню «Пуск» и панель задач из обычной Windows 10 Pro 21H2, чувствуете разницу?

Весь этот программный мусор, конечно же, занимает место на диске. Windows 10 Pro 21H2 занимает на диске 20 ГБ, включая файл подкачки, равный 2 ГБ.

Windows 10 LTSC 2021 занимает на диске на пару гигабайт меньше.

Но нельзя не отметить рост объема, занимаемого ОС, с увеличением версии Windows 10. Windows 10 LTSC версии 1809 занимала на диске всего 11.4 ГБ.

Для точного сравнения разных версий Windows 10 я использовал две идентичные виртуальные машины с объемом ОЗУ 8 ГБ и четырехпоточными процессорами, с накопителями по 70 ГБ, расположенные на SSD диске. Никаких настроек и твиков ОС не применялось. Подобными характеристиками обладает множество старых ПК, на которые пользователи предпочитают ставить более легкие версии Windows, и весомая часть недорогих ноутбуков, покупаемых для работы. Например, HP 255 G7 (255W6ES) из Регарда.

Или ASUS X415MA VivoBook (EB429).

Для подобных машин важен каждый гигабайт свободной оперативной памяти и Windows 10 LTSC здесь оказывается в выигрыше, требуя около 1.1 ГБ после загрузки.

Windows 10 Pro 21H2 требует уже 1.7 ГБ ОЗУ сразу после загрузки. 

Сильнее обычная Windows 10 грузит и процессор. Запущены 124 процесса, загрузка процессора высокая и долго не может прийти в норму. Видно и более высокую загрузку накопителя сразу после загрузки ПК. В ноутбуке с жестким диском это приводит к таким тормозам, что пользоваться им сразу после загрузки крайне некомфортно.

У Windows 10 LTSC 2021 запущены 92 процесса, загрузка процессора и накопителя заметно ниже.

Противники версий Windows 10 LTSC часто аргументируют их бесполезность на игровых ПК тем, что достаточный объем памяти и мощность процессора позволяют не замечать такие всплески нагрузки при «самодеятельности» Windows 10. Но часто это даже на мощных машинах выливается во «фризы» и «лаги» во время игры. И даже во время пустого Рабочего стола мы часто видим кружочек ожидания и чувствуем замедление работы ПК, когда, казалось, бы система ничем не занята.

Более стабильный отклик системы можно увидеть, если запустить утилиту LatencyMon, используемую для проверки способности Windows выполнять обработку потокового аудио, когда важна каждая ничтожная доля секунды задержки системы. Windows 10 Pro 21H2 показывает вот такую картину:

У Windows 10 LTSC 2021 показатели ожидаемо лучше, ведь систему не «дергают» множество фоновых процессов и служб.

Итоги

Windows 10 LTSC 2021 выглядит быстрой и легкой ОС, при этом обладающей современной сборкой ядра, позволяющей запускать современные игры. При этом она будет получать только обновления безопасности, что дает гарантию более стабильной работы системы, учитывая качество обновлений Windows в последнее время.
Но есть несколько ложек дегтя и в этой бочке меда. Если Windows 10 LTSB версии 1607 воспринималась цельной системой, то из Windows 10 LTSC 2021 «лезут» не до конца вырезанные компоненты обычной Windows 10, что производит впечатление сырого продукта.

Например, в параметрах не только есть Xbox Game Bar, но он при этом даже якобы включен.

Но нажатие клавиш Win+G показывает вот такое окно, ведь компонент Xbox Game Bar вырезан из системы. Логично было бы вообще заблокировать вкладку «Игры» в параметрах Windows 10 LTSC, но этого не сделано. И такие «хвосты» иногда очень режут глаз во время работы на этой ОС.  

Еще один минус — уменьшение срока жизненного цикла поддержки, который теперь составит всего пять лет, что для корпоративного продукта довольно немного.

Что касается безопасности, то Microsoft заметно подтянула уровень Windows 10 LTSC 2021 и в ней присутствуют такие новые инструменты, как , например, песочница Windows Sandbox. Улучшены многие функции защиты: WDAC, защита от программ-вымогателей, режим системного управления (System Management Mode, SMM). Расширены возможности брандмауэра Защитника Windows и  Application Guard Microsoft Defender.

Пишите в комментарии, а что вы думаете по поводу версий Windows 10 LTSC?

Новости

В начале этой недели Microsoft выпустила не только первую инсайдерскую сборку Windows 11, но и рассказала о жизненном цикле и подходе к обслуживанию версий системы для потребителей и корпоративных клиентов.

Жизненный цикл Windows 11

Windows 11 будет получать одно функциональное обновление в год, причём выходить они будут во второй половине календарного года. Версии системы в редакциях Home, Pro, Pro for Workstations и Pro Education будут поддерживаться в течение 24 месяцев с момента выхода, тогда как редакции Enterprise и Education будут поддерживаться 36 месяцев.

Такой подход предоставит дополнительное время и большую гибкость при проверке и масштабном развёртывании новых версий системы. А переход на ежегодную модель выпуска функциональных обновлений основан на отзывах пользователей о Windows 10. Напомним, что Windows 10 получает крупные обновления раз в полгода.

Windows 11 для потребителей

Потребители по-прежнему смогут использовать функции для контролирования обновлений системы на устройствах. В частности, можно запланировать перезагрузку, приостановить обновления и выбирать, какие дополнительные обновления следует устанавливать.

Обновление с Windows 10 до Windows 11 будет опциональным и появится только в том случае, если пользователь нажмёт на кнопку «Проверить наличие обновлений». Если текущее устройство несовместимо с Windows 11 из-за обновлённых системных требований, то новая версия системы не появится в «Центре обновления Windows».

Windows 11 для корпоративных клиентов

Windows 11 будет доступна во всех существующих каналах обслуживания Windows 10, с которыми уже знакомы корпоративные клиенты. Вы по-прежнему можете использовать Windows Update for Business, Microsoft Endpoint Manager и Windows Autopilot. Перед установкой обновления IT-специалисты смогут убедиться, что устройства в организации совместимы с Windows 11, воспользовавшись инструментами Endpoint Analytics и Update Compliance.

Обслуживание

Microsoft продолжает инвестировать в улучшение процесса обновления. Для Windows 11 по-прежнему будут выпускаться привычные ежемесячные накопительные обновления (также называемые выпусками «B» или обновлениями «Патчевого вторника»), однако в Windows 11 они будут меньше по размеру (до 40%).

Эти ежемесячные обновления по-прежнему будут содержать в себе все изменения, сделанные в предыдущих обновлениях, для поддержания безопасности и производительности работы. Также компания продолжит выпускать ежемесячные предварительные обновления (выпуск «C») для пользователей, которые вручную проверят наличие обновлений, а также для участников программы Windows Insider и Windows Insider Program for Business.

Поддержка Windows 10

Microsoft продолжит поддерживать операционную систему Windows 10 до 14 октября 2025 года. Во второй половине текущего года компания выпустит Windows 10 версии 21H2, а также редакцию Windows 10 Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC). Более подробная информация об этом будет опубликована ближе к выходу этих версий.

В прошлом месяце Microsoft официально анонсировала новую операционную систему под названием Windows 11, которая получила обновлённый интерфейс и новую модель обслуживания. В частности, Windows 11 будет получать лишь одно крупное обновление в год, а срок поддержки редакций Enterprise и Education будет составлять 36 месяцев.

Теперь же Microsoft подтвердила, что у компании по-прежнему есть планы по выпуску Windows 11 Enterprise LTSC, то есть версии с удлинённым сроком поддержки. Жизненный цикл LTSC-версии, по всей видимости, останется прежним и составит 5 лет.

Однако отмечается, что Windows 11 Enterprise LTSC не стоит ждать в ближайшие три года. В Microsoft также признают, что за этот срок планы могут поменяться, а значит нет никакой гарантии, что LTSC-редакция не будет отменена.

Мы объявили, что следующая Windows LTSC будет построена на Windows 10 версии 21H2, и что у нее будет 5-летний жизненный цикл поддержки. Мы можем ожидать, что следующая LTSC *после* Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 будет построена на Windows 11. И она также сохранит 5-летний срок поддержки. Однако она ожидается через 3 года или около того, так что за это время может произойти все, что угодно. Если вам нужно использовать LTSC в течение более длительного периода, мы рекомендуем перейти на Windows 10 IoT LTSC.

Windows 10 is a series of operating systems developed by Microsoft. Microsoft described Windows 10 as an «operating system as a service» that would receive ongoing updates to its features and functionality, augmented with the ability for enterprise environments to receive non-critical updates at a slower pace or use long-term support milestones that will only receive critical updates, such as security patches, over their five-year lifespan of mainstream support. It was first released in July 2015.

Channels

Windows 10 Insider Preview builds are delivered to Insiders in three different channels (previously «rings»).^[1] Insiders in the Dev Channel (previously Fast Ring) receive updates prior to those in the Beta Channel (previously Slow Ring), but might experience more bugs and other issues.^[2][3] Insiders in the Release Preview Channel (previously Release Preview Ring) do not receive updates until the version is almost available to the public, but are comparatively more stable.^[4]

Windows 10 versions

PC version history

Mainstream builds of Windows 10 are labeled «YYMM», with YY representing the two-digit year and MM representing the month of planned release (for example, version 1507 refers to builds which initially released in July 2015). Starting with version 20H2, Windows 10 release nomenclature changed from the year and month pattern to a year and half-year pattern (YYH1, YYH2).^[5]

Version 1507 (original release)

Version 1511 (November Update)

The second stable build of Windows 10 is version 1511 (build number 10586), known as the November Update. It was codenamed «Threshold 2» (TH2) during development. This version was distributed via Windows Update on November 12, 2015. It contains various improvements to the operating system, its user interface, bundled services, as well as the introduction of Skype-based universal messaging apps, and the Windows Store for Business and Windows Update for Business features.^[6][7][8][9]

On November 21, 2015, the November Update was temporarily pulled from public distribution.^[10][11] The upgrade was re-instated on November 24, 2015, with Microsoft stating that the removal was due to a bug that caused privacy and data collection settings to be reset to defaults when installing the upgrade.^[12]

Version 1607 (Anniversary Update)

The third stable build of Windows 10 is called version 1607, known as the Anniversary Update. It was codenamed «Redstone 1» (RS1) during development. This version was released on August 2, 2016, a little over one year after the first stable release of Windows 10.^{[13][14][15][16]} The Anniversary Update was originally thought to have been set aside for two feature updates. While both were originally to be released in 2016, the second was moved into 2017 so that it would be released in concert with that year’s wave of Microsoft first-party devices.^[17][18][14]

The Anniversary Update introduces new features such as the Windows Ink platform, which eases the ability to add stylus input support to Universal Windows Platform apps and provides a new «Ink Workspace» area with links to pen-oriented apps and features,^[19][14] enhancements to Cortana’s proactive functionality,^[20] a dark user interface theme mode, a new version of Skype designed to work with the Universal Windows Platform, improvements to Universal Windows Platform intended for video games,^[13] and offline scanning using Windows Defender.^[21] The Anniversary Update also supports Windows Subsystem for Linux, a new component that provides an environment for running Linux-compatible binary software in an Ubuntu-based user mode environment.^[22]

On new installations of Windows 10 on systems with Secure Boot enabled, all kernel-mode drivers issued after July 29, 2015 must be digitally signed with an Extended Validation Certificate issued by Microsoft.^[23]

This version is the basis for «LTSB 2016», the first upgrade to the LTSB since Windows 10’s release. The first LTSB release, based on RTM (version 1507), has been retroactively named «LTSB 2015».

Version 1703 (Creators Update)

The fourth stable build of Windows 10 is called version 1703, known as the Creators Update. It was codenamed «Redstone 2» (RS2) during development. This version was announced on October 26, 2016,^[24][25] and was released for general availability on April 11, 2017,^[26][27] and for manual installation via Windows 10 Upgrade Assistant and Media Creation Tool tools on April 5, 2017.^[28] This update primarily focuses on content creation, productivity, and gaming features—with a particular focus on virtual and augmented reality (including HoloLens and virtual reality headsets) and on aiding the generation of three-dimensional content.

It supports a new virtual reality workspace designed for use with headsets; Microsoft announced that several OEMs planned to release VR headsets designed for use with the Creators Update.^[27][26][29]

Controls for the Game Bar and Game DVR feature have moved to the Settings app, while a new «Game Mode» option allows resources to be prioritized towards games.^[30] Integration with Microsoft acquisition Mixer (formerly Beam)^[31] was added for live streaming.^[30] The themes manager moved to Settings app, and custom accent colors are now possible.^[30] The new app Paint 3D allows users to produce artwork using 3D models; the app is designed to make 3D creation more accessible to mainstream users.^[32]

Windows 10’s privacy settings have more detailed explanations of data that the operating system may collect. Additionally, the «enhanced» level of telemetry collection was removed.^[30] Windows Update notifications may now be «snoozed» for a period of time, the «active hours» during which Windows will not try to install updates may now extend up to 18 hours in length, and updates may be paused for up to seven days.^[30] Windows Defender has been replaced by the universal app Windows Defender Security Center.^[30] Devices may optionally be configured to prevent use of software from outside of Microsoft Store, or warn before installation of apps from outside of Microsoft Store.^[33] «Dynamic Lock» allows a device to automatically lock if it is outside of the proximity of a designated Bluetooth device, such as a smartphone.^[34] A «Night Light» feature was added, which allows the user to change the color temperature of the display to the red part of the spectrum at specific times of day (similarly to the third-party software f.lux).^[35]

Version 1709 (Fall Creators Update)

The fifth stable build of Windows 10 is called version 1709, known as the Fall Creators Update. It was codenamed «Redstone 3» (RS3) during development. This version was released on October 17, 2017.^[36][37][38] Version 1709 introduces a new feature known as «My People», where shortcuts to «important» contacts can be displayed on the taskbar. Notifications involving these contacts appear above their respective pictures, and users can communicate with the contact via either Skype, e-mail, or text messaging (integrating with Android and Windows 10 Mobile devices). Support for additional services, including Xbox, Skype for Business, and third-party integration, are to be added in the future. Files can also be dragged directly to the contact’s picture to share them.^[39] My People was originally announced for Creators Update, but was ultimately held over to the next release,^[40][41] and made its first public appearance in Build 16184 in late April 2017.^[37] A new «Files-on-Demand» feature for OneDrive serves as a partial replacement for the previous «placeholders» function.^[42]

It also introduces a new security feature known as «controlled folder access», which can restrict the applications allowed to access specific folders. This feature is designed mainly to defend against file-encrypting ransomware.^[43]

Version 1803 (April 2018 Update)

The sixth stable build of Windows 10 is called version 1803, known as the April 2018 Update. It was codenamed «Redstone 4» (RS4) during development. This version was released as a manual download on April 30, 2018, with a broad rollout on May 8, 2018.^[44][45] This update was originally meant to be released on April 10, but was delayed because of a bug which could increase chances of a «Blue Screen of Death» (Stop error).^[46]

The most significant feature of this build is Timeline, which is displayed within Task View. It allows users to view a list of recently-used documents and websites from supported applications («activities»). When users consent to Microsoft data collection via Microsoft Graph, activities can also be synchronized from supported Android and iOS devices.^{[47][48][49][42]}

Version 1809 (October 2018 Update)

The seventh stable build of Windows 10 is called version 1809, known as the October 2018 Update. It was codenamed «Redstone 5» (RS5) during development. This version was released on October 2, 2018.^[50] Highlighted features on this build include updates to the clipboard function (including support for clipboard history and syncing with other devices), SwiftKey virtual keyboard, Snip & Sketch, and File Explorer supporting the dark color scheme mode.^[51]

On October 6, 2018, the build was pulled by Microsoft following isolated reports of the update process deleting files from user directories.^[52] It was re-released to Windows Insider channel on October 9, with Microsoft citing a bug in OneDrive’s Known Folder Redirection function as the culprit.^[53][54]

On November 13, 2018, Microsoft resumed the rollout of 1809 for a small percentage of users.^[55][56]

The long term servicing release, Windows 10 Enterprise 2019 LTSC, is based on this version and is equivalent in terms of features.^[57]

Version 1903 (May 2019 Update)

The eighth stable build of Windows 10, version 1903, codenamed «19H1«, was released for general availability on May 21, 2019 after being on the Insider Release Preview branch since April 8, 2019.^[58] Because of new practices introduced after the problems affecting the 1809 update, Microsoft used an intentionally slower Windows Update rollout process.^[59][60][61]

New features in the update include a redesigned search tool—separated from Cortana and oriented towards textual queries, a new «Light» theme (set as default on Windows 10 Home) using a white-colored taskbar with dark icons, the addition of symbols and kaomoji to the emoji input menu, the ability to «pause» system updates, automated «Recommended troubleshooting», integration with Google Chrome on Timeline via an extension, support for SMS-based authentication on accounts linked to Microsoft accounts, and the ability to run Windows desktop applications within the Windows Mixed Reality environment (previously restricted to universal apps and SteamVR only). A new feature on Pro, Education, and Enterprise known as Windows Sandbox allows users to run applications within a secured Hyper-V environment.^[62][63]

A revamped version of Game Bar was released alongside 1903, which redesigns it into a larger overlay with a performance display, Xbox friends list and social functionality, and audio and streaming settings.^[64]

Version 1909 (November 2019 Update)

The ninth stable build of Windows 10, version 1909, codenamed «19H2«, was released to the public on November 12, 2019 after being on the Insider Release Preview branch since August 26, 2019.^[65] Unlike previous updates, this one was released as a minor service update without major new features.^[66]

Version 2004 (May 2020 Update)

The tenth stable build of Windows 10, version 2004, codenamed «20H1«, was released to the public on May 27, 2020 after being on the Insider Release Preview branch since April 16, 2020.^[67] New features included faster and easier access to Bluetooth settings and pairing, improved Kaomojis, renamable virtual desktops, DirectX12 Ultimate, a chat-based UI for Cortana, greater integration with Android phones on the Your Phone app, Windows Subsystem for Linux 2 (WSL 2), and WSL 2 version includes a custom Linux kernel, unlike older WSL, the ability to use Windows Hello without the need for a password, improved Windows Search with integration with File Explorer, a cloud download option to reset Windows, accessibility improvements, and the ability to view disk drive type and discrete graphics card temperatures in Task Manager.^[68][69]

Version 20H2 (October 2020 Update)

The eleventh stable build of Windows 10, version 20H2, was released to the public on October 20, 2020 after being on the Beta Channel since June 16, 2020.^[70] New features include new theme-aware tiles in the Start Menu, new features and improvements to Microsoft Edge (such as a price comparison tool, Alt+Tab ↹ integration for tab switching, and easy access to pinned tabs), a new out-of-box experience with more personalization for the taskbar, notifications improvements, improvements to tablet mode, improvements to Modern Device Management, and the move of the System tab in Control Panel to the About page in Settings. This is the first version of Windows 10 to include the new Chromium-based Edge browser by default.^[71][72][73]

Version 21H1 (May 2021 Update)

The Windows 10 May 2021 Update^[74] (codenamed «21H1»^[75]) is the twelfth stable build for Windows 10. It carries the build number 10.0.19043. The first preview was released to Insiders who opted in to Beta Channel on February 17, 2021.^[76] The update began rolling out on May 18, 2021.^[77] Notable changes in the May 2021 Update include:^[78]

• Added multi-camera support for Windows Hello
• New «News and Interests» feature on the taskbar
• Performance improvements to Windows Defender Application Guard and WMI Group Policy Service

The update reached end of service after the release of build 19043.2364 on December 13, 2022.^[79][80]

Version 21H2 (November 2021 Update)

The Windows 10 November 2021 Update^[146] (codenamed «21H2»^[147]) is the twelfth major update to Windows 10 as the cumulative update to the May 2021 Update. It carries the build number 10.0.19044. The first preview was released on July 15, 2021 to Insiders who opted in to Release Preview Channel that failed to meet minimum system requirements for Windows 11.^[148][149] The update began rolling out on November 16, 2021. Notable changes in the November 2021 Update include:^[147][150]

• GPU compute support in the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) and Azure IoT Edge for Linux on Windows (EFLOW) deployments
• New simplified passwordless deployment models for Windows Hello for Business
• Support for WPA3 Hash-to-Element (H2E) standards

Version 22H2 (2022 Update)

The Windows 10 2022 Update^[172] (codenamed «22H2»^[173]) is the thirteenth and current major update to Windows 10. It carries the build number 10.0.19045. The first preview was released to Insiders who opted in to the Release Preview Channel on July 28, 2022.^[173] The update began rolling out on October 18, 2022.^[172]

Fast Ring / Dev Channel

Fast Ring

On December 16, 2019, Microsoft announced that Windows Insiders in the Fast Ring will receive builds directly from the rs_prerelease branch, which are not matched to a specific Windows 10 release. The first build released under the new strategy, build 19536, was made available to Insiders on the same day.^[175]

The mn_release branch was available from May 13, 2020 to June 17, 2020.^[176][177] The branch was mandatory for Insiders in the Fast Ring.^[177]

Dev Channel

As of June 15, 2020, Microsoft has introduced the «channels» model to its Windows Insider Program, succeeding its «ring» model.^[200] All future builds starting from build 10.0.20150, therefore, would be released to Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel.^[176]

The fe_release branch was available from October 29, 2020 to January 6, 2021.^[201][202] The branch was mandatory for Insiders until December 10. Afterward, Insiders could choose to move back to the rs_prerelease branch.^[203]

The co_release branch was available from April 5 to June 14, 2021.^[204] The branch was mandatory for Insiders.

As of June 28, 2021, the Dev Channel has transitioned to Windows 11.^[205]

Mobile version history

See also

• Windows Server 2016 version history
• Windows Server 2019 version history
• Windows Phone version history
• Windows 10 Mobile version history
• Xbox OS version history
• Windows 11 version history

References

External links

• Windows release health
• Flight Hub

Windows 10 is a series of operating systems developed by Microsoft. Microsoft described Windows 10 as an «operating system as a service» that would receive ongoing updates to its features and functionality, augmented with the ability for enterprise environments to receive non-critical updates at a slower pace or use long-term support milestones that will only receive critical updates, such as security patches, over their five-year lifespan of mainstream support. It was first released in July 2015.

Channels

Windows 10 Insider Preview builds are delivered to Insiders in three different channels (previously «rings»).^[1] Insiders in the Dev Channel (previously Fast Ring) receive updates prior to those in the Beta Channel (previously Slow Ring), but might experience more bugs and other issues.^[2][3] Insiders in the Release Preview Channel (previously Release Preview Ring) do not receive updates until the version is almost available to the public, but are comparatively more stable.^[4]

Windows 10 versions

PC version history

Mainstream builds of Windows 10 are labeled «YYMM», with YY representing the two-digit year and MM representing the month of planned release (for example, version 1507 refers to builds which initially released in July 2015). Starting with version 20H2, Windows 10 release nomenclature changed from the year and month pattern to a year and half-year pattern (YYH1, YYH2).^[5]

Version 1507 (original release)

Version 1511 (November Update)

The second stable build of Windows 10 is version 1511 (build number 10586), known as the November Update. It was codenamed «Threshold 2» (TH2) during development. This version was distributed via Windows Update on November 12, 2015. It contains various improvements to the operating system, its user interface, bundled services, as well as the introduction of Skype-based universal messaging apps, and the Windows Store for Business and Windows Update for Business features.^[6][7][8][9]

On November 21, 2015, the November Update was temporarily pulled from public distribution.^[10][11] The upgrade was re-instated on November 24, 2015, with Microsoft stating that the removal was due to a bug that caused privacy and data collection settings to be reset to defaults when installing the upgrade.^[12]

Version 1607 (Anniversary Update)

The third stable build of Windows 10 is called version 1607, known as the Anniversary Update. It was codenamed «Redstone 1» (RS1) during development. This version was released on August 2, 2016, a little over one year after the first stable release of Windows 10.^{[13][14][15][16]} The Anniversary Update was originally thought to have been set aside for two feature updates. While both were originally to be released in 2016, the second was moved into 2017 so that it would be released in concert with that year’s wave of Microsoft first-party devices.^[17][18][14]

The Anniversary Update introduces new features such as the Windows Ink platform, which eases the ability to add stylus input support to Universal Windows Platform apps and provides a new «Ink Workspace» area with links to pen-oriented apps and features,^[19][14] enhancements to Cortana’s proactive functionality,^[20] a dark user interface theme mode, a new version of Skype designed to work with the Universal Windows Platform, improvements to Universal Windows Platform intended for video games,^[13] and offline scanning using Windows Defender.^[21] The Anniversary Update also supports Windows Subsystem for Linux, a new component that provides an environment for running Linux-compatible binary software in an Ubuntu-based user mode environment.^[22]

On new installations of Windows 10 on systems with Secure Boot enabled, all kernel-mode drivers issued after July 29, 2015 must be digitally signed with an Extended Validation Certificate issued by Microsoft.^[23]

This version is the basis for «LTSB 2016», the first upgrade to the LTSB since Windows 10’s release. The first LTSB release, based on RTM (version 1507), has been retroactively named «LTSB 2015».

Version 1703 (Creators Update)

The fourth stable build of Windows 10 is called version 1703, known as the Creators Update. It was codenamed «Redstone 2» (RS2) during development. This version was announced on October 26, 2016,^[24][25] and was released for general availability on April 11, 2017,^[26][27] and for manual installation via Windows 10 Upgrade Assistant and Media Creation Tool tools on April 5, 2017.^[28] This update primarily focuses on content creation, productivity, and gaming features—with a particular focus on virtual and augmented reality (including HoloLens and virtual reality headsets) and on aiding the generation of three-dimensional content.

It supports a new virtual reality workspace designed for use with headsets; Microsoft announced that several OEMs planned to release VR headsets designed for use with the Creators Update.^[27][26][29]

Controls for the Game Bar and Game DVR feature have moved to the Settings app, while a new «Game Mode» option allows resources to be prioritized towards games.^[30] Integration with Microsoft acquisition Mixer (formerly Beam)^[31] was added for live streaming.^[30] The themes manager moved to Settings app, and custom accent colors are now possible.^[30] The new app Paint 3D allows users to produce artwork using 3D models; the app is designed to make 3D creation more accessible to mainstream users.^[32]

Windows 10’s privacy settings have more detailed explanations of data that the operating system may collect. Additionally, the «enhanced» level of telemetry collection was removed.^[30] Windows Update notifications may now be «snoozed» for a period of time, the «active hours» during which Windows will not try to install updates may now extend up to 18 hours in length, and updates may be paused for up to seven days.^[30] Windows Defender has been replaced by the universal app Windows Defender Security Center.^[30] Devices may optionally be configured to prevent use of software from outside of Microsoft Store, or warn before installation of apps from outside of Microsoft Store.^[33] «Dynamic Lock» allows a device to automatically lock if it is outside of the proximity of a designated Bluetooth device, such as a smartphone.^[34] A «Night Light» feature was added, which allows the user to change the color temperature of the display to the red part of the spectrum at specific times of day (similarly to the third-party software f.lux).^[35]

Version 1709 (Fall Creators Update)

The fifth stable build of Windows 10 is called version 1709, known as the Fall Creators Update. It was codenamed «Redstone 3» (RS3) during development. This version was released on October 17, 2017.^[36][37][38] Version 1709 introduces a new feature known as «My People», where shortcuts to «important» contacts can be displayed on the taskbar. Notifications involving these contacts appear above their respective pictures, and users can communicate with the contact via either Skype, e-mail, or text messaging (integrating with Android and Windows 10 Mobile devices). Support for additional services, including Xbox, Skype for Business, and third-party integration, are to be added in the future. Files can also be dragged directly to the contact’s picture to share them.^[39] My People was originally announced for Creators Update, but was ultimately held over to the next release,^[40][41] and made its first public appearance in Build 16184 in late April 2017.^[37] A new «Files-on-Demand» feature for OneDrive serves as a partial replacement for the previous «placeholders» function.^[42]

It also introduces a new security feature known as «controlled folder access», which can restrict the applications allowed to access specific folders. This feature is designed mainly to defend against file-encrypting ransomware.^[43]

Version 1803 (April 2018 Update)

The sixth stable build of Windows 10 is called version 1803, known as the April 2018 Update. It was codenamed «Redstone 4» (RS4) during development. This version was released as a manual download on April 30, 2018, with a broad rollout on May 8, 2018.^[44][45] This update was originally meant to be released on April 10, but was delayed because of a bug which could increase chances of a «Blue Screen of Death» (Stop error).^[46]

The most significant feature of this build is Timeline, which is displayed within Task View. It allows users to view a list of recently-used documents and websites from supported applications («activities»). When users consent to Microsoft data collection via Microsoft Graph, activities can also be synchronized from supported Android and iOS devices.^{[47][48][49][42]}

Version 1809 (October 2018 Update)

The seventh stable build of Windows 10 is called version 1809, known as the October 2018 Update. It was codenamed «Redstone 5» (RS5) during development. This version was released on October 2, 2018.^[50] Highlighted features on this build include updates to the clipboard function (including support for clipboard history and syncing with other devices), SwiftKey virtual keyboard, Snip & Sketch, and File Explorer supporting the dark color scheme mode.^[51]

On October 6, 2018, the build was pulled by Microsoft following isolated reports of the update process deleting files from user directories.^[52] It was re-released to Windows Insider channel on October 9, with Microsoft citing a bug in OneDrive’s Known Folder Redirection function as the culprit.^[53][54]

On November 13, 2018, Microsoft resumed the rollout of 1809 for a small percentage of users.^[55][56]

The long term servicing release, Windows 10 Enterprise 2019 LTSC, is based on this version and is equivalent in terms of features.^[57]

Version 1903 (May 2019 Update)

The eighth stable build of Windows 10, version 1903, codenamed «19H1«, was released for general availability on May 21, 2019 after being on the Insider Release Preview branch since April 8, 2019.^[58] Because of new practices introduced after the problems affecting the 1809 update, Microsoft used an intentionally slower Windows Update rollout process.^[59][60][61]

New features in the update include a redesigned search tool—separated from Cortana and oriented towards textual queries, a new «Light» theme (set as default on Windows 10 Home) using a white-colored taskbar with dark icons, the addition of symbols and kaomoji to the emoji input menu, the ability to «pause» system updates, automated «Recommended troubleshooting», integration with Google Chrome on Timeline via an extension, support for SMS-based authentication on accounts linked to Microsoft accounts, and the ability to run Windows desktop applications within the Windows Mixed Reality environment (previously restricted to universal apps and SteamVR only). A new feature on Pro, Education, and Enterprise known as Windows Sandbox allows users to run applications within a secured Hyper-V environment.^[62][63]

A revamped version of Game Bar was released alongside 1903, which redesigns it into a larger overlay with a performance display, Xbox friends list and social functionality, and audio and streaming settings.^[64]

Version 1909 (November 2019 Update)

The ninth stable build of Windows 10, version 1909, codenamed «19H2«, was released to the public on November 12, 2019 after being on the Insider Release Preview branch since August 26, 2019.^[65] Unlike previous updates, this one was released as a minor service update without major new features.^[66]

Version 2004 (May 2020 Update)

The tenth stable build of Windows 10, version 2004, codenamed «20H1«, was released to the public on May 27, 2020 after being on the Insider Release Preview branch since April 16, 2020.^[67] New features included faster and easier access to Bluetooth settings and pairing, improved Kaomojis, renamable virtual desktops, DirectX12 Ultimate, a chat-based UI for Cortana, greater integration with Android phones on the Your Phone app, Windows Subsystem for Linux 2 (WSL 2), and WSL 2 version includes a custom Linux kernel, unlike older WSL, the ability to use Windows Hello without the need for a password, improved Windows Search with integration with File Explorer, a cloud download option to reset Windows, accessibility improvements, and the ability to view disk drive type and discrete graphics card temperatures in Task Manager.^[68][69]

Version 20H2 (October 2020 Update)

The eleventh stable build of Windows 10, version 20H2, was released to the public on October 20, 2020 after being on the Beta Channel since June 16, 2020.^[70] New features include new theme-aware tiles in the Start Menu, new features and improvements to Microsoft Edge (such as a price comparison tool, Alt+Tab ↹ integration for tab switching, and easy access to pinned tabs), a new out-of-box experience with more personalization for the taskbar, notifications improvements, improvements to tablet mode, improvements to Modern Device Management, and the move of the System tab in Control Panel to the About page in Settings. This is the first version of Windows 10 to include the new Chromium-based Edge browser by default.^[71][72][73]

Version 21H1 (May 2021 Update)

The Windows 10 May 2021 Update^[74] (codenamed «21H1»^[75]) is the twelfth stable build for Windows 10. It carries the build number 10.0.19043. The first preview was released to Insiders who opted in to Beta Channel on February 17, 2021.^[76] The update began rolling out on May 18, 2021.^[77] Notable changes in the May 2021 Update include:^[78]

• Added multi-camera support for Windows Hello
• New «News and Interests» feature on the taskbar
• Performance improvements to Windows Defender Application Guard and WMI Group Policy Service

The update reached end of service after the release of build 19043.2364 on December 13, 2022.^[79][80]

Version 21H2 (November 2021 Update)

The Windows 10 November 2021 Update^[146] (codenamed «21H2»^[147]) is the twelfth major update to Windows 10 as the cumulative update to the May 2021 Update. It carries the build number 10.0.19044. The first preview was released on July 15, 2021 to Insiders who opted in to Release Preview Channel that failed to meet minimum system requirements for Windows 11.^[148][149] The update began rolling out on November 16, 2021. Notable changes in the November 2021 Update include:^[147][150]

• GPU compute support in the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) and Azure IoT Edge for Linux on Windows (EFLOW) deployments
• New simplified passwordless deployment models for Windows Hello for Business
• Support for WPA3 Hash-to-Element (H2E) standards

Version 22H2 (2022 Update)

The Windows 10 2022 Update^[172] (codenamed «22H2»^[173]) is the thirteenth and current major update to Windows 10. It carries the build number 10.0.19045. The first preview was released to Insiders who opted in to the Release Preview Channel on July 28, 2022.^[173] The update began rolling out on October 18, 2022.^[172]

Fast Ring / Dev Channel

Fast Ring

On December 16, 2019, Microsoft announced that Windows Insiders in the Fast Ring will receive builds directly from the rs_prerelease branch, which are not matched to a specific Windows 10 release. The first build released under the new strategy, build 19536, was made available to Insiders on the same day.^[175]

The mn_release branch was available from May 13, 2020 to June 17, 2020.^[176][177] The branch was mandatory for Insiders in the Fast Ring.^[177]

Dev Channel

As of June 15, 2020, Microsoft has introduced the «channels» model to its Windows Insider Program, succeeding its «ring» model.^[200] All future builds starting from build 10.0.20150, therefore, would be released to Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel.^[176]

The fe_release branch was available from October 29, 2020 to January 6, 2021.^[201][202] The branch was mandatory for Insiders until December 10. Afterward, Insiders could choose to move back to the rs_prerelease branch.^[203]

The co_release branch was available from April 5 to June 14, 2021.^[204] The branch was mandatory for Insiders.

As of June 28, 2021, the Dev Channel has transitioned to Windows 11.^[205]