Understanding Windows 10 ESU: Cost, Coverage, and Migration Insights

As Windows 10’s end-of-life deadline looms closer, Microsoft is laying out the roadmap—and the price tag—for those reluctant to abandon the trusted OS. In a recent announcement, the company detailed the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, outlining the annual cost for keeping Windows 10 devices safe and secure past their mainstream support window. Here’s a deep dive into what this means for Windows enthusiasts, both casual users and IT professionals alike.

The ESU Program Explained​

For those still holding onto Windows 10, particularly the 22H2 release, Microsoft’s ESU is designed as a stop-gap measure for three more years of security coverage, beginning in November 2025. However, unlike a free upgrade, this extended safety net comes with an annual subscription fee that rises over time:

• Year One: $61 per device.
• Subsequent Years: The fee doubles each year.

After three years, this security lifeline will fade away, leaving users with a critical decision: either upgrade to Windows 11 or risk operating in an increasingly vulnerable environment.

What Exactly Is Being Offered?​

Microsoft emphasizes that the ESU program does not include any new features, non-security updates, or design enhancements. It strictly covers "critical and important security updates." This means your beloved Windows 10 will continue to repel malware and defend against critical vulnerabilities, but without the bells and whistles that come with ongoing development under full support.

Who Should Consider ESU?​

The primary target for this program is organizations and users who, for various reasons, are not yet ready to migrate to Windows 11. If your enterprise relies on legacy software or specific operational setups, ESU offers a temporary reprieve from jumping into the newer OS environment without additional costs of a complete overhaul.
Interestingly, Microsoft has reserved free ESU coverage for Windows 10 virtual machines running in Windows 365 or Azure Virtual Desktop. This move underscores an understanding of the current trends as more businesses shift towards cloud and hybrid models.

Why the Price Hike?​

You might be wondering, “Why does continuing with Windows 10 cost so much?” The pricing strategy reflects Microsoft’s push to encourage users to migrate to Windows 11. By setting a financial incentive to upgrade (or at least accept the higher cost over subsequent years), the tech giant is effectively nudging the market toward the latest OS, which offers more robust security, modern features, and enhanced integration with contemporary hardware.
This pricing model isn’t just about revenue—it’s also about the inherent risks of running an aging operating system. With cybersecurity threats evolving rapidly, maintaining an out-of-support OS becomes a precarious endeavor. Microsoft has made it clear: the best way to stay secure is by embracing the newer platform.

How Does the ESU Process Work?​

Enrollment in the ESU program is available via the Microsoft Volume Licensing Program. Here are a few key points to keep in mind when considering this option:

• Cumulative Coverage: The program operates on a cumulative basis. You must subscribe in the first year to qualify for subsequent years. If you decide later on, you can retrospectively purchase the previous year’s updates along with the current year’s coverage.
• Security-Only Focus: No new features, non-security fixes, or general support will be offered, so expect only essential patches to keep threats at bay.
• Transition Alternatives: Microsoft strongly recommends those who can upgrade to Windows 11 do so using tools like Windows Autopatch or Microsoft Intune to ensure the best and most secure experience.

Windows 10 vs. Windows 11: The Bigger Picture​

Despite the imminent end of mainstream support for Windows 10, the OS still dominates the market, with around 60% of installations according to recent stats. Windows 11, although steadily gaining traction with a 37% share, hasn't entirely convinced all users to make the leap. Many remain attached to Windows 10’s familiarity and stability.
For many IT departments, the decision boils down to compatibility and operational continuity versus the benefits of new features and advanced security measures. The ESU program, therefore, serves as a bridge for those caught in this transitional phase—a limited-time option to extend the life of their existing systems while planning a longer-term migration strategy.

Final Thoughts​

Microsoft’s unveiling of Windows 10 ESU costs is a telling reminder that technology, like life, moves forward—and sometimes, holding on comes at a premium. For users and businesses alike, this move is both a testament to Windows 10’s enduring legacy and a clarion call to embrace the future with Windows 11.
If you’re weighing your options, consider the long-term benefits of upgrading to a more secure, feature-rich OS against the increasing cost of maintaining Windows 10. Meanwhile, for those not quite ready to transition, the ESU program offers a temporary haven—albeit one with a steadily rising price tag.
We’d love to hear your thoughts. Are you considering sticking with Windows 10 for a few more years with ESU, or does the prospect of moving to Windows 11 spark excitement despite the learning curve? Share your experiences and opinions on the forum below!

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Source: TechRadar Microsoft reveals more on just how much it'll cost you to keep using Windows 10