Windows 10 S

The S variant of Microsoft's Windows 10 operating system, released in summer 2017, sits between the Home edition and Windows 10 Pro out of the box. After download and installation, Windows 10 S has a lot in common with the Pro version. This applies above all to features such as drive encryption via BitLocker and business-oriented features such as access to the Microsoft Store for Business or enterprise roaming via Azure AD. This lightweight version of Windows is rounded off by the Start menu, which has returned in Windows 10, the performance-focused Microsoft Edge 10 web browser and the connection to Microsoft's cloud service OneDrive. User data is synchronised automatically with the cloud, so it can be accessed from all of the user's devices.

Windows is faster than ever
With its latest edition, Microsoft has created a very high-performance operating system whose lightweight design runs smoothly even on devices with low hardware specifications. With suitable hardware, the performance gain shows in start-up times of under five seconds and significantly improved battery life on mobile devices. Thanks to a dedicated setup app, the Windows 10 S download can also be installed on any computer within 40 seconds using a USB stick you create.

The power of apps meets the convenience of the cloud
Among other things, this performance is achieved by keeping data and apps in the cloud as a rule, using valuable local storage only when absolutely necessary. This keeps the system free of data fragments, so Windows runs just as fast after months as on the first day. The operating system also only allows you to use apps from the Windows App Store. Because these applications are certified by Microsoft and tailored to Windows systems, the system runs much more smoothly. The applications you can use include the fully integrated Microsoft Edge browser as well as the Microsoft Office applications available via the Windows App Store.

Security comes first
The streamlined design of Windows 10 S brings a further advantage that is particularly interesting for educational institutions and businesses. Because users can only install programs and apps that are certified and approved by Microsoft, the security of the system and the data on it is greatly increased. This matters for data security in both businesses and educational institutions, not least because it also keeps unwanted malware off the systems. The automatic installation of hardware drivers via Windows updates also ensures that the driver software works ideally with the system and does not slow it down. The operating system, which is optimised for education among other uses, is complemented by Microsoft Intune. This is a comprehensive rights management tool that lets you, for example, enable and block the webcam and access to certain apps.

Windows 10 S key facts

• Automatic synchronisation of user data with Microsoft's cloud service OneDrive for flexible working, maximum performance and strong data security
• Microsoft Intune for straightforward rights management in businesses, classrooms and other educational institutions
• Intuitive user interface optimised for use with mouse and keyboard as well as styluses and touchscreens
• High performance efficiency and long battery life on mobile devices and notebooks thanks to optimised software
• High level of data security thanks to efficient encryption of local data via BitLocker