Microsoft has announced that Windows 10 will reach its end of support on October 14, 2025. After this date, the operating system will no longer receive free security updates, bug fixes, or technical support. To assist users who cannot immediately transition to Windows 11, Microsoft is offering Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 10. This program, previously available only to organizations, is now extended to individual consumers for the first time.
Understanding the Extended Security Updates (ESU) Program
The ESU program is designed to provide critical and important security updates to Windows 10 devices beyond the official end-of-support date. It's important to note that ESUs do not include new features, non-security updates, or design changes. The primary goal is to maintain security for users who need additional time to upgrade to a supported operating system.
Enrollment and Pricing Details
Enrollment for the ESU program will begin in late 2024, approximately one year before Windows 10 reaches end of support. The program offers different pricing structures for various user categories:
- Individual Consumers: For the first time, home users can purchase a one-year ESU subscription for $30 per device. This option provides an additional year of security updates, extending support until October 2026.
- Commercial Organizations: Businesses can enroll in the ESU program with a pricing model that increases annually. The cost is $61 per device for the first year, doubling each subsequent year—$122 for the second year and $244 for the third. Organizations using cloud-based update management solutions like Microsoft Intune or Windows Autopatch are eligible for a 25% discount, reducing the first-year cost to $45 per device.
- Educational Institutions: Schools and educational organizations benefit from significantly reduced pricing. The first year costs $1 per device, increasing to $2 in the second year and $4 in the third. This pricing structure aims to support educational institutions in maintaining secure environments during their transition to newer systems.
To activate the ESU subscription, users will need to install an ESU key on their devices. This process involves using the Windows Software Licensing Management Tool (slmgr.vbs) to input the ESU Multiple Activation Key (MAK) and corresponding Activation ID. Detailed instructions for this process are available on Microsoft's official documentation.
Alternative Solutions: Windows 365 and Azure Virtual Desktop
For users and organizations considering cloud-based solutions, Microsoft offers Windows 365 and Azure Virtual Desktop. These services provide access to Windows 11 environments from virtually any device with an internet connection. Notably, Windows 10 devices accessing Windows 11 Cloud PCs through Windows 365 will automatically receive ESUs at no additional cost. This integration ensures continued security without the need for immediate hardware upgrades.
Preparing for the Transition
Microsoft strongly recommends transitioning to Windows 11 to benefit from enhanced security features and ongoing support. Users can check their device's eligibility for a Windows 11 upgrade through the PC Health Check tool or Windows Update settings. For devices that do not meet the hardware requirements for Windows 11, the ESU program offers a temporary solution to maintain security while planning for future upgrades.
Conclusion
The introduction of the ESU program for individual consumers reflects Microsoft's recognition of the diverse needs of its user base. While the program provides a valuable bridge for those unable to upgrade immediately, it is intended as a temporary measure. Users are encouraged to plan their transition to supported operating systems to ensure long-term security and access to new features.
For more detailed information and updates, users should refer to Microsoft's official communications and support channels.
Source: Gizbot Free Windows 10 Extended Security Updates Announced by Microsoft — Here’s the Catch!