Good to know: Windows SAC or LTSC?

What is SAC?

As the name suggests, the Semi-Annual Channel brings a new release with new Windows Server versions twice a year. These SAC versions are primarily intended for customers with rapid innovations (according to Microsoft).

The first SAC release was System Center version 1801. The names of the versions always depend on the year and month of release, so the first release was version 1801, as it was published in January 2018.
Semi-annual channel versions will be supported by Microsoft for 18 months from the date of public availability. This channel is only offered to customers with Software Assuarance and corresponds to the release and maintenance model for Windows servers, which was announced in 2017.

What is LTSC?

LTSC is the abbreviation for the Long-Term Servicing Channel and, like SAC, was introduced with Windows Server 2016. Basically, LTSC has always existed, it was just not called that until the introduction of SAC. In the LTSC, there are both large, chargeable upgrades (major releases) and small updates such as patches etc.. They close security gaps, improve stability and fix minor bugs. LTSC offers five years of mainstream support and a further five years of extended support. This channel is best suited for systems that require a longer maintenance option and functional stability. The LTSC releases contain the full range of Windows Server functions, i.e. Core, Nano Server and Desktop, and are usually released every two to three years.

Our spo-comm Mini-PCs are all equipped with Windows LTSC, Windows 10 or 11 makes no difference here.

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