Microsoft is gearing up to launch Windows 11 in October for everyone that can run the new OS. At the same time, the company also wants a smooth release for commercial customers.
These organizations make up a large chunk of the revenue for the Redmond based software firm.
And it is important to get things right for this user base.
So, it comes as no surprise, that the software titan has announced the commercial preview for these businesses that want to test drive the latest in Windows. This, after urging these companies to prepare for the new operating system.
Microsoft has released Windows 11 and Windows 10 21H2 to the Release Preview channel for organizations enrolled in the Windows Insider Program for Business. These are available as optional updates so that IT admins retain the choice to opt into either one before their fall launch.
As explained:
“Organizations enrolled in the Windows Insider Program for Business can access these builds through all standard channels, including Windows Update, Windows Server Update Services (WSUS), Azure Marketplace, and the Windows Insider Program ISO download page. Along with commercial pre-release availability, we are also offering free support for commercial organizations running these builds. This means you can test these releases—and your preferred deployment methods—while remaining supported prior to general availability.”
No surprises that the Windows 11 option will only roll out to users with supported hardware, and these eligible devices will need to have the latest cumulative update, KB5005101 installed.
Those who wish to stay on the older platform can do so by hitting the “Stay on Windows 10 for now” option, after which they will be offered Windows 10 21H2. Likewise, unsupported devices will also be automatically offered the latest Windows 10 21H2 preview.
Goes without saying that both these previews likely come with an increased likelihood of bugs, as Microsoft is still in the process of quashing them.
So, they should not be installed on production machines.
