Short answer: we don’t recommend it.
The slightly longer answer: while you could technically use Windows 11, it isn’t currently designed with IoT devices as the primary audience.
More suited for the average consumer device, the first release of Windows 11 will only provide short-term support for up to 36 months. At Bsquare, we think that most connected devices are better served with a longer support window. A long-term service channel (LTSC) provides support and security. It also gives you the option to remove customer-facing applications like Cortana, so you can craft a customized experience on your fixed purpose devices.
If Windows 11 isn’t a good fit for IoT, what is?
If you’re looking for the latest Microsoft OS for your IoT project, the best fit is still going to be a platform from Windows 10, such as Windows 10 IoT Enterprise 2021, which was announced earlier this year.
The Windows 10 platform has been in the IoT field for years, weathering the inevitable growing pains that Windows 11 has yet to face. With years of bug fixes and optimizations, Windows 10 can provide a more stable user experience that’s crucial for connected devices.
Windows 10 IoT Enterprise 2021 also comes with the possibility for an LTSC that can last up to 10 years, as well as features like Azure EFLOW, which lets users run Linux on Windows containers. (Check out our guide on Windows 10 IoT Enterprise 2021 to learn more about the benefits of this operating system and prepare for its release later in 2021.)
Windows 11 may not be a good fit for your connected devices now, but we’ll keep you updated as this new platform grows and evolves. In the meantime, as an Authorized Microsoft distributor for over 25 years, Bsquare is here to help with all your Windows questions. Contact us now to get in touch with one of our experts.