Microsoft’s Windows 10 Editions

Microsoft released information about the seven versions of Windows 10 it will offer in a blog post on June 1. Here are the key takeaway points:

1. Windows 10 Home will be the version used by consumers on PCs and larger tablets, the focus here will be more so on retail.
2. Windows 10 Professional is designed to run on desktops, laptops, 2-in-1s and tablets. Additional features in the area of business management and security, this version is aimed at users who will have a machine supplied by work but might also want to use it for personal tasks. Focus is retail again.
3. Windows 10 Enterprise is the version targeted at larger businesses, and will be sold through Microsoft’s Volume Licensing program. It adds additional security and management features, and gives administrators control over the pace at which updates are released. There will be some stripped -down versions (embedded use) for devices like POS’s and ATMs.
4. Windows 10 Education is a tweaked version of Enterprise targeted for the education market (e.g. schools and universities.)
5. Windows 10 Mobile will run on smartphones and smaller tablets (with a screen size of 9 inches or less). This is the product currently known as Windows Phone.
6. Windows 10 Mobile Enterprise is a business-focused version of Windows 10 Mobile, also sold via Volume Licensing. Like Enterprise, there will also be a cut-down “industrial” edition for handheld terminals and other task-specific devices.
7. Windows 10 Internet of Things Core is a very stripped-down version of Windows 10, designed for “small footprint, low cost devices like gateways.” Microsoft has previously indicated this version will be free.