Windows Editions available with Microsoft A3

Question

Dear All,

I've got some questions about the included Windows Editions in a Microsoft A3 license. Windows 10/11 Education/Enterprise is clearly named on the Microsoft websites, so there is no problem. What I like to know is, if the A3 license contains software assurance for the licensed user or devices and if therefore any Windows edition can be used on a given machine? Specifically I like to know, what editions of Windows a computer can be installed with, if that machine was bought with a Windows 10 Home OEM license (a qualified base license is still a prerequisite, afaik). Can it be upgraded to Windows 11 Pro or is it only allowed to upgrade to Windows 11 Education? Does the A3 license allow to install Windows 10 LTSC and/or IoT LTSC? Will Windows 11 LTSC be a available to use with an A3 license, as soon as it is released?

Thank you for your help!

Answer 1

Hello Oliver

Microsoft A3 license includes subscription licenses for Windows 10 Enterprise and Windows 11 Education for eligible users. These licenses provide software assurance, which gives users access to the current version of Windows as well as future updates and upgrades during the term of the subscription.

Here are some considerations regarding the Windows editions and upgrades with a Microsoft A3 license:

1. Upgrading Windows 10 Home OEM license: If a computer was purchased with a Windows 10 Home OEM license, you may be able to upgrade it to Windows 11 Pro or Windows 11 Education using the A3 license, as long as the device is eligible for the upgrade according to the licensing terms.
2. Windows 10 LTSC and IoT LTSC: With a Microsoft A3 license, you can also use Windows 10 LTSC (Long-Term Servicing Channel) and IoT LTSC editions on eligible devices. These editions are specifically designed for devices that require long-term stability and fewer feature updates.
3. Windows 11 LTSC: It is expected that Windows 11 LTSC will be available for use with an A3 license once it is released. LTSC editions generally provide long-term support and stability for devices that do not require frequent feature updates.