Starting October 2026, Microsoft will stop providing security updates for Windows 10, the operating system that powers the current Compass Gateway. To keep systems secure and supported, we're replacing the gateway with new hardware: the Compass Application Server, running Windows 11 with security updates guaranteed until October 2034. Along with improved security, the new hardware brings better performance, more local data storage, and a new kiosk mode.

Details are below.

Why the change?

Q. Why are we replacing the gateway?

A. The current Compass Gateway runs Windows 10 LTSB (Long-Term Servicing Branch), a specialized edition of Windows 10. Starting October 2026, Microsoft will stop providing security updates for this version of Windows 10. From that point on, any security vulnerability discovered in Windows 10 will never be fixed. Each new weakness stays open permanently, and the gateway becomes a bigger target for malware and unauthorized access the longer it stays in service. The new Compass Application Server runs Windows 11, which will continue to receive security updates until October 2034.

Q. Will the customer's existing Compass Gateway continue to work after October 2026?

A. Yes. The existing gateway will continue to operate normally after the end-of-support date. Data logging and day-to-day greenhouse operations will not be interrupted. However, future Microsoft security updates will no longer be available, which poses a security risk. Priva strongly recommends replacing the Compass Gateway.

Q. Can we not just put Windows 11 on the existing Compass Gateway?

A. No. The existing Compass Gateway hardware cannot run Windows 11, so the hardware itself needs to be replaced.

A new name

Q. Why did we change the name from Compass Gateway to Compass Application Server?

A. A gateway, by definition, connects one system to another. We originally called the local Compass appliance a "gateway" because the initial concept was to connect the local system to the cloud. Right from the beginning, the device took on more than that single role, and the name never really described what it actually does.

On Connext, we deliberately kept the gateway role narrow: we currently offer two gateways whose only job is connectivity. The Edge Gateway provides cloud connectivity to Priva One, allows for I&M integration, and lets third-party integrators provide variables to the Connext Operator. The ECO Gateway provides connectivity to Priva's ECO platform. Because these devices do nothing more than connect systems, the "gateway" name still fits there.

On Compass, by contrast, cloud connectivity is only one of many applications the device provides. The Application Server is responsible for the following:

Cloud Gateway - Acts as a gateway between the local system and the cloud.
Local Operator - Hosts a local user interface
Controller Setup - Hosts a configuration tool that lets installers do the following:
Update controllers with latest application software
Set up IP addresses for networking
Set up software licenses on controllers
Configure inputs and outputs on controllers
Generate input/ output connection lists
Backup and restore controller settings
View audit logs
View diagnostic logs
Local Historian - Acts as a local repository for 30 days of historical data
Local Connectivity - Allows the system to have a kiosk mode (more on that later!)
Aranet Gateway - Provides access to an integrated Aranet base station
Wifi Access - Provides Wi-Fi connectivity to the system

What's new

Q. What additional benefits will our customers get with the new Compass Application Server?

Overall system performance is increased, especially noticeable when multiple Compass process computers are connected
Local data storage is increased from 14 to 30 days
Full Windows security updates until 2034
Kiosk mode allows a monitor, keyboard, and mouse to be connected directly to the Compass Application Server, eliminating the need for an office network

Q. Will the software on the new Compass Application Server look or work differently?

A. No. The Compass Application Server runs the same Compass software as the legacy Compass Gateway, so the user interface and day-to-day operation remain exactly the same. The improvements are in the hardware and operating system underneath (security, performance, and storage), not in the software itself. Users should not expect a new look or new features immediately after the upgrade.

Q. What is kiosk mode?

A. Kiosk mode lets you connect a monitor, keyboard, and mouse directly to the Compass Application Server, giving you a local user interface without any network infrastructure. This was built for customers running a standalone NutriFit or NutriOne system in a remote location, who want a local interface right at the water unit without needing to set up a network.

Q. How many Compass controllers does the Compass Application Server support?

A. The Compass Application Server supports a maximum of 5 Compass controllers, the same as the existing Compass Gateway.

Transition & migration

Q. What happens to the customer's historical data on the Compass Gateway?

A. Before replacing the existing gateway, a complete backup of historical data, user preferences, and labels can be made to a USB stick. This backup can then be restored to the new Compass Application Server, preserving all existing data.

Q. Is it necessary to replace the power adapter?

A. No. Priva has supplied two Compass Gateway models over the years: The original SX100 was powered by 24V DC, the Lanner gateway by 12V DC. The new Compass Application Server accepts both 12V and 24V DC. If the customer's power supply includes a 24V DC to 12V DC voltage converter, it's no longer needed and can be removed.

What is the Compass Applicaton Server?