Windows 10 IoT Licensing Explained – Good News For Low Power Users

Windows 10 IoT Licensing Explained

What is Windows 10 IoT and what does it mean for Industrial users?

Windows Embedded operating systems have long been the staple for the industrial embedded market. Stripping away the unnecessary features of a full Windows OS, Windows Embedded saves storage space and power usage allowing system integrators and OEMs to custom fit their interface and system operations. Now Microsoft has adapted their fit-to-purpose operating systems for industrial embedded systems by embracing the Internet of Things movement, releasing the Windows 10 IoT range of licensing options.

All Windows 10 IoT products are based on the new Windows 10 kernel and all versions from IoT Enterprise down to the IoT core version run the same Universal Apps and Universal driver model; therefore, it is possible to run the same application from industrial devices, mobile phones, tablets and desktop devices.

There are three main products for the industrial/embedded space which comprise of:

Windows IoT Core

The Windows IoT Core (aka Windows “Athens”) will run on x86 and ARM processors. Designed for embedded applications where clients want complete control of the OS. Windows 10 IoT Core offers no graphical user interface, so if you have a project that really doesn’t need a GUI of any kind, IoT Core will happily fit the bill.

Windows 10 IoT Mobile Enterprise

Specifically designed for mobile, tablets and handhelds under 8 inches, Mobile Enterprise has less applications and appeal in the industrial embedded space, other than for some industrial handhelds. The changes to Windows 10 Mobile are mainly in additional features to support IT organisations with various compliance issues.

Windows 10 IoT Enterprise

The Windows 10 IoT Enterprise version would be comparable to having a full Windows Embedded OS with pre-built OS image and all available functionality including filters and branding. Predecessors would commonly be Windows Embedded POS Ready 7 and Windows Embedded 8.1 Industry. 

Windows 10 IoT Enterprise is based on the normal Windows 10 Enterprise installation but with the option of enabling recognized embedded features such as:

  • Write Filters (EWF/FBWF/UWF)
  • USB-Filter
  • Keyboard Filter
  • Gesture Filter
  • App Locker and Layout Control
  • Dialog Box and Notification Filter
  • Shell Launcher / App Launcher

One big change is now Microsoft has adapted it's pricing model to be processor specific; essentially if you are using a $100 SBC you now pay a licence fee for Windows 10 IoT Enterprise to match that.   

VERSION: Windows 10 IoT Enterprise Entry

SUPPORTED PROCESSORS: Intel Atom, Celeron Small Core (N3160, N3060, N3010, N2807, J1900) AMD: E1, E2, A4, A6, G-Series

VERSION: Windows 10 IoT Enterprise Value

SUPPORTED PROCESSORS: Intel Core i3, Core i5, Core M, Pentium, Celeron, AMD: R-Series, A10, A8, Remaining FX models

VERSION: Windows 10 IoT Enterprise High End

SUPPORTED PROCESSORS: Intel Core i7, Xeon, AMD: FX 7500, FX 9370, FX 7600P

Assured Systems can advise on the operating system or hardware requirements on any project in any of our specialist sectors. Call us now and talk to us about what you are working on either the UK 01785 879 050 or USA 864 421 6991.

Windows 10 IoT Family

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Assured Systems is a leading technology company offering high quality and innovative applied computing solutions to the embedded, industrial, and digital-out-of-home markets across the world. Headquartered in Stone, England and with offices in North America, our reach is truly global. Our impressive product portfolio includes a full range of Fanless Embedded Computer Systems, Digital Signage & Multimedia Computer Systems, Touchscreen Panel PCs, Human Machine Interfaces, Vehicle

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