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As a pre-sales technical specialist in the Productivity domain, a common question from partners is: “Which Windows OS should I recommend for my customers?”

With Microsoft ending support for Windows 10 in October 2025, now’s the time to get clear on your options—especially through the Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) program.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the latest Windows 11 editions, their use cases, and what to keep in mind when advising your SMB customers.

Whether you’re supporting a mobile team, a compliance-heavy industry, or simply modernising IT for productivity, there’s a version that fits.

Perpetual Licensing in CSP

Perpetual Licensing in CSP

Let’s quickly clarify what perpetual licenses mean in this context. These licenses involve a one-time payment for permanent use.

They do not include Software Assurance (SA) and no SA benefits can be added. That said, the use rights remain consistent regardless of how the license is acquired.

You can find more details in Microsoft’s official Product Terms – be sure to check you are reading v23.40 for the most current information.

Important to Remember!

Friendly word to the wise that it helps to keep the following in mind:

  • Not all Windows 10 devices are eligible for a Windows 11 upgrade.
  • Some features may require additional hardware.
  • Installing Windows 11 on unsupported devices is not recommended and may void update and warranty support.
  • Always check the Windows 11 device specs before proceeding.
Windows 11 Home to Pro Upgrade.

Windows 11 Home to Pro Upgrade.

Ideal for SMBs deploying Microsoft 365 Business Premium.

This upgrade transforms a Windows 11 Home device into Windows 11 Pro, unlocking key features like:

  • Enterprise-grade security
  • BitLocker device encryption
  • Remote Desktop support
  • Remote management tools

It’s a great option for small businesses standardising on Microsoft 365 Business Premium and looking to enhance their endpoint security and management.

Windows 11 Pro Upgrade.

Ideal for SMBs upgrading from Windows 7/8/8.1/10 Pro.

Windows 11 Pro is purpose-built for SMBs.

It supports:

  • Device and app management
  • Business-grade data protection
  • Cloud integration for remote work
  • Office 365 and productivity suite compatibility

This is your go-to option when transitioning legacy Windows Pro devices to a modern, secure operating environment.

Windows 11 Pro N Upgrade

Windows 11 Pro N Upgrade

Ideal for customers in regulated environments or that prefer minimal preinstalled media apps.

Windows 11 Pro N offers the same business features as Windows 11 Pro, minus certain media technologies.

It does not include:

  • Windows Media Player
  • Music, Movies & TV apps
  • Camera app
  • Skype

This is useful in situations where multimedia tools are not needed—or have to be managed separately for compliance reasons.

Windows 11 Enterprise LTSC 2024 Upgrade

Ideal for mid-to-large organisations with specialised environments.

LTSC stands for Long-Term Servicing Channel—meaning minimal feature updates but up to 5 years of quality/security updates. This version is tailored for environments that require stability, such as:

  • Manufacturing systems
  • Medical devices
  • Kiosks
  • Air-gapped infrastructure

It also includes advanced management and security features built on Windows 11 Enterprise (24H2).

Windows GGWA – Windows 11 Pro Legalisation

Windows GGWA – Windows 11 Pro Legalisation

Ideal for SMBs needing to regularise non-genuine Windows installs.

Get Genuine Windows Agreement (GGWA) helps customers legalise existing PCs running non-genuine OS versions.

Key points:

  • One-time purchase for full Windows licenses
  • Must be bought under a single order
  • Applies only to existing devices at time of order

This program promotes license compliance and encourages a shift to buying genuine Windows pre-installed in the future.

Important Note:

GGWA is not intended for volume deployment of new hardware.

Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2024

Ideal for fixed-function devices and embedded systems.

This edition is designed for purpose-built devices like:

  • ATMs
  • POS systems
  • Digital signage
  • Industrial controllers

It offers:

  • 10 years of support
  • Enterprise-level security and management
  • No consumer apps (e.g., Windows Store)
  • Consistent toolsets with traditional enterprise Windows

For more technical deployment guidance, check the official documentation for Windows IoT Enterprise LTSC

Downloading software and product license keys.

Downloading software and product license keys.

For Customers

https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/admin/setup/download-software-licenses-csp?view=o365-worldwide

For Partners

https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/partner-center/customers/csp-on-premises-softwareactivate-and-manage-software-subscriptions

The Windows OS Selection Wrap-Up

The Windows OS Selection Wrap-Up

Choosing the right Windows edition doesn’t need to be complicated. Start with your customer’s use case, consider licensing needs, and ensure device compatibility. Windows 11 offers flexible paths for SMBs whether they’re working from the cloud, deploying devices in the field, or locking down specialised infrastructure.

As always, feel free to reach out to your Productivity team within Crayon for support on licensing scenarios, upgrade paths, or CSP billing questions. We’re here to help you make smarter decisions for your customers and drive value beyond the license.

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