CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1202)Operating SystemsHard
A system administrator is managing a fleet of Windows 10 Pro workstations. They need to implement a security policy that restricts software installation to only approved applications and prevents users from changing critical system settings. Which edition of Windows 10 is required to centrally manage these policies through Group Policy Objects (GPOs) from an Active Directory domain controller?
- AWindows 10 Education
- BWindows 10 Home
- CWindows 10 Pro
- DWindows 10 S Mode
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Windows 10 Pro
Windows 10 Pro is the minimum edition that supports joining an Active Directory domain and receiving Group Policy Objects (GPOs) from a domain controller, which is essential for centralized management of security policies and system settings.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Windows 10 Education is similar to Enterprise but licensed for academic institutions; while it supports GPOs, Pro is the minimum required as stated in the question context of 'Pro workstations'.
- B. Windows 10 Home lacks the ability to join an Active Directory domain and receive GPOs, making it unsuitable for centralized management.
- D. Windows 10 S Mode is a more restricted version that only allows apps from the Microsoft Store and does not support full Group Policy management in the way Pro/Enterprise does.
Windows Editions and Group Policy
Different editions of Windows offer varying levels of features, with Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions supporting advanced management capabilities like joining an Active Directory domain and receiving Group Policy Objects (GPOs).
- Windows Home editions do not support Active Directory domain join.
- Group Policy provides centralized configuration and management of OS settings.
- GPOs are critical for enterprise security and compliance.
Memory trick: PRO for 'PROfessional' management, HOME for 'HOuSehold' use.