Windows 11 LTSC: Everything you need to know about the most stable, lightweight, and bloatware-free version

In recent years, Windows 11 LTSC has become an object of growing interest for both demanding private users and companies and professionals looking for Stability, security, performance and extended life cycles in your operating system. Although for many the Windows experience is limited to the most popular editions such as Home and ProThere are little-known variants that solve very specific problems in corporate, industrial, and even domestic environments for those who prioritize a clean system, without unwanted pre-installed applications or constant updates that jeopardize the stability of the equipment.

The final arrival of Windows 11 LTSC and its version IoT Enterprise has revitalized the debate about which edition best suits the new demands of the hardware, efficient management of resources, elimination of restrictions such as the dreaded TPM 2.0, expanded compatibility, and of course, the fight against bloatware. In this article, we take a deep dive into what it is. Windows 11 LTSC, how it works, its advantages, disadvantages, ideal user profiles, licensing models, installation requirements, practical applications and, above all, the new features included in the highly anticipated version 2024. Get ready to clear all your doubts with the most detailed and up-to-date guide in Spanish.

What is Windows 11 LTSC?

Windows 11 LTSC (Long-Term Servicing Channel) is a special edition of Windows 11, created specifically for Equipment, professional environments and devices that require maximum stability over timeIts main characteristic is that It receives only critical security and stability updates, but does not incorporate the usual new feature updates or frequent interface changes. which do affect mainstream versions like Home and Pro.

This means that, once installed, the system maintains the same functional base for years, minimizing risks of incompatibility, unexpected errors, or interruptions resulting from constant changes that require reboots, tool reconfiguration, or user adaptation.

The LTSC edition is primarily aimed at environments where service continuity is critical: hospitals, banks, manufacturing plants, medical devices, ATMs, points of sale, government infrastructure and industrial equipment, although it has also been adopted by demanding consumer users who want a clean and reliable “old-school” operating system.

Key features of Windows 11 LTSC

• Extended lifecycle and long-term support: Each version of Windows 11 LTSC receives official support from Microsoft for 10 years (5 years of mainstream support and an additional 5 years of extended support on most variants), focused exclusively on critical security updates and bug fixes.
• Removing bloatware and secondary services: The system lacks the typical apps Unnecessary pre-installed applications, promotional trials, advertising, and background resource-consuming services.
• Does not require TPM 2.0 at installation: The requirement to have this security chip is eliminated, making it easier to implement in older hardware or in equipment that, by its nature, cannot incorporate new components.
• Designed for stability: Functional updates only occur every few years (every LTSC cycle), reducing drastic changes and their negative implications.
• flexible implementation: Allows rapid deployment using custom images, management tools, or scripts, ideal for large enterprises or environments with many similar devices.

Windows 11 LTSC vs. Home, Pro, and other editions

One of the biggest points of confusion in the Windows ecosystem lies in the large number of editions available. In addition to the traditional Home and Pro, there are variants such as Enterprise, Education, IoT Enterprise And, of course, the LTSC version. How is LTSC different from the rest?

• Limited and predictable updatesWhile Home and Pro receive constant feature updates, redesigns, and new features, LTSC remains frozen at its base version except for critical patches.
• No store apps or Microsoft Store: LTSC does not include the Microsoft Store or modern apps tied to it, which reduces security risks, but also limits direct installation of certain recent apps.
• Lack of pre-installed Edge and cloud services: Some versions do not include as standard Microsoft Edge nor integration with OneDrive.
• Greater compatibility with older hardware: By not requiring components like TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot, the LTSC edition can be installed on computers that other versions have officially stopped supporting.
• Business-oriented licensing: While it is possible to purchase licenses as a personal user through resellers, Microsoft focuses LTSC on volume contracts and OEMs.

Who is Windows 11 LTSC for?

The LTSC edition, while tempting for any enthusiast fed up with updates and extra software, is Specially designed for organizations with devices that require reliability and continuous operation:

• Companies with specialized devices: sectors such as healthcare, finance, retail, manufacturing and transportation where an unexpected update can lead to catastrophic failure.
• Industrial environments and home automation: control systems, robotics, advanced home automation and embedded machines.
• Critical infrastructures and public bodies: those in which security, traceability, regulatory compliance and continuity are priorities.
• Advanced home users: Those looking for an optimized, fast Windows experience, free of distractions and unwanted applications, and with fully controlled updates.

Main advantages of Windows 11 LTSC

• Guaranteed stability: By not receiving feature updates or drastic changes, incompatibilities and unexpected errors are avoided.
• High performance and low resource consumption: Without unnecessary services or apps, the system boots faster, uses less memory, and keeps the processor load low.
• Extended compatibility with older hardware: Thanks to the absence of requirements such as TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot, it can be installed on computers that would normally become obsolete with other versions.
• Less exposure to vulnerabilities due to new featuresMinimal changes limit entry points for newly emerging threats.
• Clean, ad-free environments: The system includes no demos, games, promotions, or intrusive notifications, making it ideal for those seeking simplicity.
• Long life cycle: Support for up to 10 years enables long-term planning and reduces migration costs.

What is Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC?

Along with Windows 11 LTSC, it is essential to highlight the edition IoT Enterprise LTSC. Although its name may lead you to think of tiny connected devices (typical of the "Internet of Things"), it is actually designed to Complete PCs and industrial devices such as point-of-sale terminals, kiosks, medical equipment, or ATMs.

What differentiates IoT Enterprise LTSC from Enterprise LTSC? At a functional level, both prioritize stability and long-term support, but IoT adds less demanding hardware requirements, making it an excellent choice for extend the useful life of old equipment. In addition, it is offered with volume licensing models ideal for manufacturers and integrators.

The system lacks most extra services present in Home or Pro, removing Cortana, widgets, Microsoft Store, OneDrive and any application that is not really necessary for basic operation. It is the Windows is lighter, faster to install, and easier to maintain., perfect for those seeking maximum efficiency and cleanliness without resorting to altered, unofficial or "unattended" installations.

Related article:

How to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11: A detailed guide with all the methods, requirements, and tips

Licensing and availability models

Although LTSC is also highly sought after by home users, Microsoft does not market the LTSC or IoT LTSC edition in traditional consumer channels.It is distributed mainly through:

• Volume contracts for large companies, organizations and OEMs (device manufacturers).
• License resellers Independent, offering everything from competitively priced single licenses to annual subscriptions or perpetual licenses with Premier Support.

The price range varies depending on the support, the license type and whether it is purchased together with business services, ranging from about €54,90 to €289,90 approx. Windows 2024 LTSC version 11 is officially available from mid-November 2024..

Windows 11 LTSC Installation and Technical Requirements

One of the main claims of the LTSC edition over Home and Pro is the Absence of TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot requirementsThis allows it to be installed on older computers, facilitating migrations from Windows 10 or even earlier versions. To find out if your computer is compatible, you may find it helpful to consult How to see the Windows 11 kernel version.

It is not mandatory to have an internet connection to install Windows 11 LTSC, which simplifies deployment to devices without connectivity or in closed environments. A local user can be easily created, avoiding the need to link a Microsoft account.

• Method to install without a Microsoft account: During the installation process, if the wizard forces us to use a Microsoft account, simply open the symbol of the system (key Shift + F10) and enter the command oobe\bypassnroAfter restarting and disconnecting the device from the internet, we can create a traditional local user without requiring a password.

The LTSC version can be selected from official ISOs with several editions in the same package: Enterprise LTSC, IoT Enterprise LTSC and annual subscription variants with Premier support or perpetual licenses without extended support.

Operation, interface and user experience

When you start Windows 11 LTSC for the first time, the The visual interface is virtually identical to that of Windows 11 Home or Pro.. However, We will not see any test applications, games, advertising, widgets, or active services in the background. outside the basic functioning of the system.

The user enjoys a system clean, fast and agile from the first BootThe Start menu and desktop are free of distractions, promotional apps, or unnecessary online service icons.

Resource consumption is minimal: on most modern computers with 8 GB of RAM or more, The system uses only 1,9 GB once fully started.. Idle processor usage is around 1-2%. There are no hidden services or invasive "telemetry," and the impact of Windows Defender during analysis it is punctual and barely perceptible.

Ideal uses and user profiles in Windows 11 LTSC

There are two large user profiles who can especially benefit from Windows 11 LTSC:

• Corporate user: Companies seeking maximum stability, without interruptions due to frequent updates or risk of serious errors in critical applications such as document management, accounting, professional editing PDF, use of office suites such as Office 2024 Pro Plus LTSC, work with architectural software, video or image editing.
• Advanced/Conservative Home User: Those people who do not want to experiment or constantly install beta versions, experimental builds or apps in the testing phase, and who value above all the stability, privacy and absence of bloatware. Also for those who want to take advantage of updated commercial software (Adobe, Corel, etc.) without losing security or sacrificing performance.

On the other hand, home users who want to try out new features, install experimental software, integrate beta apps, or constantly update their Windows build will still have a better experience with Windows 11 Pro or Home.

Related article:

Windows 10 Ltsb and Ltsc: What are they?

What's new in Windows 11 LTSC 2024?

The 2024 edition of Windows 11 LTSC brings Important new features in security, administration, performance, compatibility and supportThe following additions stand out:

• Revamped Windows Security App: An intuitive console that centralizes antivirus protection, firewall, application control, account protection, and more.
• Security baselines: Preset configurations for corporate environments, facilitating secure deployment.
• Integrated Microsoft Defender Antivirus with support for advanced management via Intune and endpoint protection.
• Enhanced application security: Blocking untrusted code execution, file isolation, phishing protection and malware more efficient.
• Microsoft Pluton processor (where available), provides cryptographic security built into the CPU, strengthening the protection of credentials and personal data.
• Credential Guard enabled by default, uses virtualization to isolate credentials and prevent password theft attacks.
• Intelligent Application Control: Dynamic blocking of unwanted/malicious applications and protection against emerging threats.
• LSA (Local Security Authority) Protection: Prevents code injection into critical system processes.
• Support for modern hardware and features: Includes support for AMD's latest chips (Ryzen 9000) and Intel (Core Ultra 200S), native builds like 24H2 and facilitation of the standard SHA-3 for encryption.
• Windows Protected Print Mode: New modern print stack focused on security.
• Improvements to SMB control and auditing: Enforced signing and encryption by default, blocking of obsolete protocols, alternative port management, and advanced auditing.
• Implementing Rust code in the kernel, increasing reliability and security against classic vulnerabilities.
• Advanced support for Windows Hello, biometrics and federated login, reinforcing the passwordless experience.
• Improvements in Windows LAPS for automatic and secure management of local administrator account passwords.

Key differences from Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC and other "light" variants

Many users have opted so far for Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2019 or 2021 to extend the life of their computers and avoid invasive updates, but Windows 11 LTSC 2024 offers clear advantages:

• Native support for new processors and drivers websites.
• Expanded support for new security and encryption technologies (Pluton, SHA-3, Enhanced SmartScreen, etc.).
• Superior performance in high-consumption tasks, multimedia editing, professional software and, especially, current gaming.
• Advanced access management, identity, web login and federation.
• Complete removal of bloatware and pre-installed services Maintaining official support and avoiding reliance on unofficial modified ISOs that may pose legal, compatibility, and stability risks.

How does the licensing model affect home users?

Although Microsoft reserves the right to sell LTSC licenses directly to large companies, it is possible to purchase licenses through resellers and online stores. However, Conditions and support may varySome licenses include Microsoft Premier Support (more expensive), others offer only essential updates at a lower price.

In any case, it is possible Use Windows 11 LTSC 100% legally if you purchase a valid license., whether for a single team or in volume.

Performance and Gaming Experience: Is LTSC the Best Option?

Until recently, LTSC releases were not recommended for gaming due to potential compatibility issues with drivers, recent libraries and modern applications such as Adobe Creative Cloud, Autodesk or the latest development engines. video games.

With Windows 11 LTSC 2024 the situation has changed radically.:

• Excellent performance in modern games (2023, 2024 and later), with higher frame rates at low and medium resolutions, and full support for technologies like DLSS, frame rendering, and updated graphics drivers.
• Better resource management: The absence of secondary services and apps frees up memory and processes, allowing the CPU and RAM to focus exclusively on the game.
• Notable differences in CPU-dependent games like Counter Strike, Fortnite or Valorant, where improvements of between 15 and 40 FPS have been reported depending on the hardware configuration.
• Full compatibility with professional editing and architecture software: Office 2024, Adobe, Corel, etc.
• Stability during long sessions of high load: Less likely to experience crashes, blue screens, or unexpected app shutdowns due to updates or background services.

However, if you're an enthusiast looking to experiment with beta apps, experimental builds, or new features every week, the Pro and Home versions will still be more flexible in that regard.

Advanced security and management in Windows 11 LTSC

The edition LTSC 2024 not only improves performance, but reinforces all security and control sections:

• Microsoft Defender Antivirus and predefined security baselines.
• Credential Guard y Intelligent Application Control to block malicious code and prevent credential theft.
• Phishing protection and enhanced SmartScreen to protect passwords and accounts.
• Pluto y advanced personal encryption for complete protection of data, credentials and encryption keys.
• Implementing passwordless access (Passkeys), federated login, enhanced biometric authentication with Windows Hello, and intelligent access control.
• Improvements to remote management, Intune integration, and group policies for enterprise devices.
• Audit and control of all network protocols (SMB, encryption, signing, alternate ports, NTLM blocking, etc.), facilitating management and regulatory compliance in large organizations.

What do I lose and what do I sacrifice by using Windows 11 LTSC?

Despite its many advantages, Windows 11 LTSC also has limitations that you should consider before adopting it:

• Does not include Microsoft Store nor store-dependent apps.
• Does not pre-install Edge on some versions; you'll have to download it manually if you need it.
• Less immediate access to news: Features Microsoft releases for Home/Pro may take years to arrive in LTSC, if they ever do.
• Less flexible licensing and geared towards large companies: For individual users, it may be necessary to look for alternative stores or resellers.
• Not all standard Windows 11 Enterprise corporate features are present: Some advanced integration features only appear in the “full” Enterprise versions.

Exclusive news and technical improvements in Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2024

For more specialized environments, Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC includes New features and updates that set it apart from even other LTSC variants:

• Extended support for older, less demanding hardware: You can install Windows 11 IoT on computers that were already running Windows 10 without any installation tricks.
• Complete removal of secondary services and applications: Less space occupied, fewer resources consumed, greater agility and ease of long-term maintenance.
• Direct official support from MicrosoftForget about altered or unofficial ISOs, which guarantees security and legal peace of mind.
• Support for the latest authentication and protection technologies: Passkeys, federated login, advanced Windows Hello biometrics, security lines implementation, Intune management, etc.
• New management and audit capabilities: Advanced network security auditing, secure printing, granular protocol control, and SMB encryption.
• Improvements to automatic administrator password management with LAPS, including secure rotation, reverse image detection, and generating more secure, easily distinguishable passphrases.
• Rolling update of the Windows kernel with parts written in Rust to improve stability and resistance against classic vulnerabilities.

Isaac

Passionate writer about the world of bytes and technology in general. I love sharing my knowledge through writing, and that's what I'll do on this blog, show you all the most interesting things about gadgets, software, hardware, tech trends, and more. My goal is to help you navigate the digital world in a simple and entertaining way.