Skip to main content
Image source: Microsoft

Windows 11 Enterprise

This guide provides an objective overview of Windows 11 Enterprise, detailing its features, capabilities, licensing options, and benefits for businesses.

Amol Dalvi | May 5, 2025

What is Windows 11 Enterprise Edition?

Windows 11 Enterprise is a version of the Windows operating system designed specifically for businesses. It includes advanced security features, productivity tools, and options for IT management. The platform is built to support organizations of all sizes, offering scalability and the ability to operate efficiently in diverse environments. With tools for threat protection, virtualization, and device management, it provides solutions for both IT professionals and business decision-makers seeking practical and secure workplace technology.

What are the key features of Windows 11 Enterprise?

Windows 11 Enterprise is designed to meet the needs of your modern business, offering advanced tools for security, productivity, and IT management. Below, we’ll explore its standout features, focusing on how they can support your organization’s goals.

What makes Windows 11 Enterprise different from other editions?

Enhanced security with features like Credential Guard and BitLocker for data protection.

Advanced management tools like Windows Autopilot and Group Policy for streamlined device management.

Virtualization support with tools like Windows Sandbox for secure testing environments.

Is Windows 11 Enterprise better than Windows 11 Pro?

Windows 11 Enterprise offers more advanced features compared to Windows 11 Pro, particularly for large organizations and businesses. While Pro provides essential tools like BitLocker and Remote Desktop Host, Enterprise includes additional capabilities such as Credential Guard, Application Guard, and advanced management options like Windows Autopilot. The choice depends on your organization's needs—Enterprise is better suited for businesses requiring enhanced security and scalability.

What are all the differences between Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise?

Here’s a comparison chart highlighting the differences:

Feature Windows 11 Pro Windows 11 Enterprise
Target audience Small to medium-sized businesses Large enterprises and organizations
Security features BitLocker, Windows Information Protection Credential Guard, Application Guard, Virtualization-Based Security (VBS)
Device management Group Policy, Mobile Device Management Advanced tools like Windows Autopilot, Azure Active Directory integration
Virtualization Hyper-V, Windows Sandbox Full virtualization support for enterprise environments
Remote desktop Host and client Host and client
Licensing One-time purchase or volume licensing Subscription-based via Microsoft 365 Enterprise plans
Deployment options Basic deployment tools Advanced deployment tools like Windows Autopilot
Cloud integration Azure Active Directory support Full Azure integration and cloud management
Support for hybrid work Moderate Extensive, with features tailored for remote and hybrid work environments

How does Windows 11 Enterprise enhance productivity?

  • Multitasking tools with features like Snap Layouts and Snap Groups help you organize your workspace efficiently.
  • Microsoft 365 integration gives you seamless access to apps like Teams and OneDrive for collaboration.
  • Improved search functionality with contextual suggestions in File Explorer makes finding files faster.
  • Generative AI capabilities through Microsoft Copilot, enable you to streamline workflows, draft documents, and gain insights from data more efficiently. 

What security features does Windows 11 Enterprise offer?

  • Credential guard: Protects against unauthorized access to credentials.
  • Windows Defender application guard: Isolates untrusted websites and files to prevent malware.
  • Virtualization-based security (VBS): Adds an extra layer of protection by isolating critical processes.

How does Windows 11 Enterprise support IT management?

Windows 11 Enterprise provides a suite of tools and features designed to make IT management more efficient and secure. Whether you’re deploying devices, managing users, or maintaining system security, these capabilities can streamline your processes and enhance overall control.

What tools are available for IT administrators?

Windows 11 Enterprise equips you with robust tools to simplify IT workflows and enhance system control:

  • Windows autopilot streamlines device provisioning with automated configuration and setup processes.
  • Group policy allows you to control and enforce settings across devices in your organization.
  • Microsoft Endpoint Manager centralizes device management with seamless integration into your environment.

How does Windows 11 Enterprise simplify device management?

Managing devices across an organization is more straightforward with these features:

  • Azure Active Directory (Azure AD) provides cloud-based identity and access management for seamless authentication and integration.
  • Universal print enables cloud-based printing without the need for on-premises print servers.
  • Dynamic provisioning lets you configure new devices quickly for out-of-the-box readiness, saving time and reducing overhead.

What are the deployment options for Windows 11 Enterprise?

It supports flexible deployment methods, allowing you to choose what works best for your organization:

  • Windows autopilot is ideal for modern device deployment without requiring imaging.
  • Traditional imaging supports organizations that prefer customized deployment images.
  • Hybrid deployment combines the benefits of cloud and on-premises solutions for seamless scalability.

Why is Windows 11 Enterprise ideal for remote and hybrid work?

Windows 11 Enterprise is designed with features that address the challenges of remote and hybrid work environments. It helps you maintain secure connections, collaborate seamlessly, and manage devices effectively, whether your team is working from home, in the office, or on the go.

How does Windows 11 Enterprise enable secure remote work?

It includes built-in security tools that help protect your remote workforce:

  • Virtualization-based security (VBS) provides an isolated execution environment to protect critical system processes.
  • Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) ensures secure connections to company resources from anywhere.
  • Zero Trust security model supports identity verification through integration with Azure Active Directory and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).

What collaboration tools are included in Windows 11 Enterprise?

Collaboration is critical for hybrid teams, and Windows 11 Enterprise simplifies this with:

  • Microsoft Teams integration enables video calls, chat, and file sharing directly from the taskbar.
  • OneDrive cloud storage facilitates real-time collaboration on shared documents.
  • Focus sessions is built into the Clock app to help minimize distractions during work hours.

How does Windows 11 Enterprise support hybrid work environments?

It provides tools and capabilities to manage and optimize hybrid work scenarios:

  • Cloud-based management tools like Intune and Endpoint Manager help you manage devices and ensure compliance, even outside the office network.
  • Seamless device provisioning with features like Windows Autopilot make it easier to deploy ready-to-work devices.
  • Manage updates efficiently using Windows Update for Business, keeping systems up to date without disrupting work.

What are the licensing and subscription options for Windows 11 Enterprise?

Windows 11 Enterprise offers flexible licensing and subscription options to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes. Whether you're upgrading from Windows Pro or starting fresh, these options provide scalability and advanced features tailored for enterprise environments.

How is Windows 11 Enterprise licensed?

It is available through subscription-based licensing, which provides access to advanced features and regular updates:

  • Per-user licensing is ideal for organizations with employees using multiple devices.

  • Per-device licensing is suitable for shared devices in environments like kiosks or labs.

  • Volume licensing is available for larger organizations through Microsoft Enterprise Agreements.

How much does a Windows 11 Enterprise license cost?

It is not sold as a standalone product; instead, it is available through subscription-based licensing as part of Microsoft 365 Enterprise plans. Pricing for these plans, such as Enterprise E3 and E5, is not publicly listed and typically requires contacting Microsoft or a reseller for a quote. Costs may vary based on the number of users, licensing agreements, and additional services included

What are the differences between Windows 11 Enterprise E3 and E5?

It is offered in two main subscription tiers, E3 and E5, each catering to different organizational needs:

Feature E3 E5
Security Advanced threat protection Includes Microsoft Defender for Endpoint Plan 2
Management Comprehensive device and app management Enhanced with advanced analytics and threat detection
Licensing Per-user subscription Per-user subscription
Use Case General enterprise needs Organizations requiring advanced security solutions

Is Windows 11 Enterprise available in a Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) version?

Yes, the LTSC version is specially designed for devices that require stability and predictability, without frequent feature updates. Unlike the standard Enterprise edition, LTSC editions only receive security and quality updates every 5 years, making them ideal for environments where changes could disrupt critical operations. This version ensures long-term reliability for devices like ATMs, medical imaging systems, kiosks, and industrial control systems.

How can businesses transition to Windows 11 Enterprise?

Transitioning to Windows 11 Enterprise is straightforward, with multiple upgrade paths available:

  • Upgrade from Windows Pro by using subscription activation to seamlessly step up to Enterprise.

  • Deploy via Microsoft Endpoint Manager to simplify deployment across your organization.

  • Hybrid environments involve combining on-premises and cloud-based solutions for flexible transitions.

How does Nerdio enhance the Windows 11 Enterprise experience? 

Nerdio provides tools and solutions that simplify and optimize the deployment and management of Windows 11 Enterprise. By leveraging Nerdio’s platform, you can reduce complexity, improve efficiency, and maximize the value of your IT investments.

What solutions does Nerdio offer for Windows 11 Enterprise?

Nerdio enhances your experience with features designed to streamline IT operations:

  • Automated deployment simplifies the setup of environments using pre-configured templates that work seamlessly with Microsoft’s deployment plan.
  • Cost optimization which includes auto-scaling features to reduce Azure compute and storage costs by up to 75%.
  • Centralized management provides you a unified interface for managing virtual desktops, applications, and user settings.

How can Nerdio help with cost management and efficiency?

Nerdio’s platform is built to help you optimize resources and reduce operational expenses:

  • Auto-scaling dynamically adjusts resources based on usage, ensuring you only pay for what you need.
  • Resource monitoring tracks your usage patterns to identify opportunities for cost savings.
  • Simplified licensing streamlines license management for Windows 11 Enterprise and related services.

Why choose Nerdio for Windows 11 Enterprise support?

Nerdio’s expertise and tailored solutions make it a strong partner:

  • Enhanced native tools build on Microsoft’s native capabilities with additional enterprise-grade features.
  • Scalability that supports organizations of all sizes, from small businesses to global enterprises.
  • Trusted by thousands of organizations worldwide for managing Microsoft environments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about Windows 11 Enterprise

About the author

Amol Dalvi

VP, Product

Software product executive and Head of Product at Nerdio, with 15+ years leading engineering teams and 9+ years growing a successful software startup to 20+ employees. A 3x startup founder and angel investor, with deep expertise in Microsoft full stack development, cloud, and SaaS. Patent holder, Certified Scrum Master, and agile product leader.

Ready to get started?