In a significant policy shift, Microsoft has announced the introduction of an Extended Security Update (ESU) program for Windows 10, allowing users to receive critical security updates beyond the previously set end-of-support date of October 14, 2025. This move addresses concerns from both individual consumers and organizations about the impending cessation of support for the widely used operating system.
Background on Windows 10 Support Lifecycle
Windows 10, launched in July 2015, was initially slated to receive support until October 14, 2025. This timeline aligned with Microsoft's traditional 10-year support policy for its operating systems. However, as the end-of-support date approached, a substantial portion of users remained on Windows 10. As of February 2025, Windows 10 accounted for approximately 58.83% of the worldwide market share, while Windows 11 held about 38% (en.wikipedia.org).
Introduction of the Extended Security Update (ESU) Program
Recognizing the challenges users face in transitioning to Windows 11, Microsoft has unveiled the ESU program for Windows 10. This initiative allows users to purchase annual subscriptions to receive critical and important security updates for up to three years beyond the original end-of-support date, extending support until October 2028 (techcommunity.microsoft.com).
Key Details of the ESU Program
- Availability: Unlike previous ESU offerings, which were primarily targeted at organizations, the Windows 10 ESU program is available to both individual consumers and businesses.
- Pricing:
- Businesses: The annual subscription fee starts at $61 per device for the first year, doubling each subsequent year ($122 for the second year and $244 for the third year). Organizations utilizing cloud-based update management solutions like Microsoft Intune are eligible for a 25% discount (en.wikipedia.org).
- Education Sector: Special pricing is offered to educational institutions, with fees set at $1 per device for the first year, $2 for the second year, and $4 for the third year (microsoft.com).
- Individual Consumers: Consumers can enroll their PCs in the ESU program for a fee of $30 per device for one year (en.wikipedia.org).
- Coverage: The ESU program provides monthly security updates classified as critical or important. It does not include new features, customer-requested non-security updates, or design changes. Technical support beyond the ESU itself is also not available (techcommunity.microsoft.com).
The introduction of the ESU program offers a lifeline to users who may not be ready or able to transition to Windows 11 by the original end-of-support date. This is particularly relevant for organizations with extensive deployments of Windows 10, where upgrading hardware and software can be a complex and costly endeavor.
However, it's important to note that the ESU program is a temporary measure. The escalating costs over the three-year period are designed to encourage users to transition to a supported operating system. Additionally, the ESU program only covers security updates, meaning users will not receive new features or improvements that come with newer operating systems.
Environmental and Sustainability Considerations
The decision to end support for Windows 10 has raised environmental concerns. The Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) petitioned Microsoft to reconsider the end-of-support date, arguing that it could lead to a significant increase in electronic waste as users discard hardware that cannot be upgraded to Windows 11 (windowscentral.com). By offering the ESU program, Microsoft provides an option to extend the life of existing hardware, potentially mitigating some environmental impacts.
Conclusion
Microsoft's introduction of the Extended Security Update program for Windows 10 reflects a pragmatic approach to addressing user concerns about the end of support for a widely used operating system. While it offers a temporary solution for those unable to transition to Windows 11 immediately, users should view the ESU program as a bridge rather than a long-term solution. Planning for an eventual upgrade to a supported operating system remains essential to ensure ongoing security and access to new features.
Source: Computing UK https://www.computing.co.uk/news/2025/microsoft-u-turns-on-windows-10-support/
