This page explains the key differences between LTSB/LTSC (Long-Term Servicing Branch/Channel) and Windows Insider Builds, helping admins and power users choose the right release track.
LTSB (Windows 10) and LTSC (Windows 10 & 11) are long-term stable versions of Windows Enterprise, designed for specialized or mission-critical systems.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Long-term support with minimal feature changes |
| Update Cycle | Feature updates every 2–3 years only |
| Support Length | Up to 10 years (5 mainstream + 5 extended) |
| Target Devices | ATMs, kiosks, medical devices, industrial PCs |
| Pre-installed Apps | No Edge, Cortana, Microsoft Store, etc. |
| Licensing | Volume Licensing only |
🧩 Key Benefit: Maximum stability, minimum disruptions.
Insider Builds are pre-release versions of Windows offered to developers, testers, and enthusiasts.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Preview and test upcoming Windows features |
| Update Cycle | Frequent — Weekly to Monthly |
| Support Length | Short-lived — Only valid until next build release |
| Target Users | Developers, IT testers, enthusiasts |
| Channels | Canary, Dev, Beta, Release Preview |
| Risks | Bugs, instability, breaking changes |
🧩 Key Benefit: Early access to new features and APIs.
| Feature | LTSB / LTSC | Insider Builds |
|---|---|---|
| Stability | ✅ Rock-solid | ❌ Unstable (test builds) |
| Feature Updates | Rare (2–3 years) | Frequent (weekly/monthly) |
| Best for | Industrial / critical use | Testing & dev environments |
| Pre-installed Apps | Minimal | Full feature set |
| License Type | Volume License only | Free via Microsoft account |
| Support Duration | 5+5 years | Temporary |
| Customization | ✅ Easy to harden | ❌ Not for production |
Use the following methods to confirm whether your Windows installation is an LTSC/LTSB version or an Insider Preview build.
winverWin + R, type winver, and press Enter.Examples:
Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC → You're using LTSCWindows 10 Enterprise 2016 LTSB → You're using LTSBWindows 11 Pro Insider Preview → You're on an Insider BuildSettings → System → AboutOpen Command Prompt or PowerShell, then run:
systeminfo | findstr /B /C:"OS Name" /C:"OS Version"
Get-ComputerInfo | Select-Object WindowsProductName, WindowsEditionId, WindowsVersion
💡 Microsoft recommends LTSB/LTSC only for devices that don't need frequent updates or UI changes.