Ever since Microsoft launched Windows 11 Pro, there’s been much buzz about how it compares to its predecessor, Windows 10.

While the debate is valid for consumer devices and personal computers, it gains another dimension when viewed from the lens of industrial computing.

When shopping a new embedded PC, the particular Windows version chosen is frequently an afterthought. This is primarily because most people are unaware that the O/S selected can have a massive impact on the overall reliability of the industrial PC.

Lets look at the differences between Windows 10 Pro/IoT and Windows 11 Pro/IoT.

Similar to Windows 10 Home, Windows 10 Pro is subject to receiving automatic updates from Microsoft. This ensures that users will always be up-to-date with bug patches and security enhancements.

Windows 10 Pro is designed for broad use across several domains. The device is equipped with pre-installed applications that are frequently utilized, making it the best option for individuals who require the computer for various tasks, such as data entry in the field and contact with the back office.

Windows 10 Professional incurs a higher cost relative to Windows 10 IoT due to its enhanced versatility as an operating system. The design of this system is intended to be adaptable to a wide range of scenarios, requiring minimal or no adaptations.

Windows 10 IoT Enterprise is designed for specialized and dedicated applications where the implementation of automated updates may lead to significant disruptions in the workflow.

Windows 10 IoT is specifically designed to cater to the needs of IT experts, while Windows 10 Pro offers a more user-friendly and manageable experience for a broader range of staff members.

Windows 11 Pro is intended for specialists and power users who require advanced capabilities and features. It provides a vast array of features that enhance productivity, security, and management.

Some significant Windows 11 Pro features include:

• Compatibility with a variety of applications and hardware devices: Windows 11 Pro offers compatibility with a vast array of software and hardware. It supports both legacy and modern desktop applications, allowing existing business software to be seamlessly integrated.

• Advanced Security: Windows 11 Pro places a premium on security. It contains robust features including BitLocker encryption, Windows Defender Antivirus, and Windows Hello biometric authentication. These features aid in protecting sensitive data and preventing cyberattacks.
• Enhanced Management and Control: Windows 11 Pro provides enhanced management and control capabilities, making it an excellent choice for businesses. It consists of utilities such as Group Policy, Mobile Device Management (MDM), and Windows Update for Business, which enable efficient administration and configuration of settings.
• Virtualization: With Windows 11 Professional, you can utilize virtualization technologies such as Hyper-V to create and manage virtual machines. This feature is especially beneficial for software development, testing, and simultaneously running multiple operating systems.

Windows 11 IoT (Internet of Things) is designed specifically for Internet-connected devices and IoT solutions. It provides a secure, lightweight platform for constructing intelligent devices and applications.

Important features of Windows 11 IoT include:

• Device Focused: Windows 11 IoT includes multiple editions that are tailored to specific device classifications, such as Windows 11 IoT Core for small-scale devices and Windows 11 IoT Enterprise for more robust deployments. These editions provide the option to select the version that best meets your specific IoT requirements.
• Scalability and Customization: Windows 11 IoT offers scalability to support a vast array of IoT devices, from small sensors to large industrial machinery. It enables developers to tailor the operating system to the specific requirements of IoT applications, thereby enabling efficient resource management and optimization.
• Connectivity and Communication: Windows 11 IoT offers built-in support for multiple communication protocols, facilitating the connection and interaction of IoT devices. It consists of protocols such as MQTT and WebSocket that facilitate communication between devices and cloud services.
• Security and Reliability: Windows 11 IoT provides robust security features to address the necessity of security in IoT deployments. It includes features such as device authentication, secure launch, and hardware-based encryption to protect the privacy and integrity of data transmitted between devices.
• Integration with Cloud Platforms: Windows 11 IoT integrates seamlessly with multiple cloud platforms, enabling organizations to leverage the power of cloud computing for IoT initiatives. It offers APIs and tools for connecting IoT devices to cloud services, allowing for data storage, analytics, and remote monitoring.

When choosing between Windows 11 Pro and Windows 11 IoT, it is crucial to consider your particular needs.

You might gravitate towards Windows 11 because it’s the newer version. But newer doesn’t necessarily mean better.

It’s important to understand your specific application(s) and the needs of your people.

Contact Industrial PC today and we can walk you through the options that make the most sense for you.