As the October 14, 2025, end-of-support date for Windows 10 approaches, Microsoft has introduced the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program to assist users who are not yet ready to transition to Windows 11. This initiative offers a temporary solution to maintain security on Windows 10 devices beyond the official support period.
Understanding the ESU Program
The ESU program is designed to provide critical and important security updates to Windows 10 users for a limited time after the end-of-support date. It's important to note that this program does not include new features, non-security updates, or technical support. The primary goal is to offer a safety net for users and organizations during their transition to newer operating systems.
Enrollment Options for Individual Users
Microsoft has made enrolling in the ESU program straightforward for individual users by introducing an enrollment wizard accessible through system notifications and the Settings menu. This wizard offers three enrollment options:
- Windows Backup Integration: By enabling Windows Backup to sync settings and data to the cloud via a Microsoft Account, users can enroll in ESU at no additional cost.
- Microsoft Rewards Points: Users can redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points to receive one year of free security updates.
- One-Time Payment: A one-time fee of $30 grants users access to ESU coverage for one year.
ESU Options for Commercial Organizations
For businesses, the ESU program offers a tiered pricing structure:
- Year 1: $61 per device
- Year 2: $122 per device
- Year 3: $244 per device
Cloud and Virtualization Considerations
Organizations utilizing cloud services have additional considerations:
- Windows 365 Cloud PCs: Windows 10 devices accessing Windows 11 Cloud PCs via Windows 365 are entitled to ESU at no additional cost, with automatic security updates requiring no extra steps.
- Azure Virtual Machines: Windows 10 virtual machines hosted in Azure environments receive ESU coverage without additional fees.
Strategic Implications and Recommendations
While the ESU program provides a temporary bridge, it is not intended as a long-term solution. The escalating costs for organizations and the limited duration for individual users underscore the importance of planning a transition to supported operating systems.
For individual users, the free enrollment options via Windows Backup or Microsoft Rewards points offer accessible means to maintain security during the transition period. However, these options are available for a limited time, emphasizing the need for timely action.
Organizations should assess their current infrastructure, evaluate hardware compatibility with Windows 11, and develop a comprehensive migration strategy. Utilizing cloud-based solutions like Windows 365 can provide flexibility and cost savings during this transition.
Conclusion
Microsoft's introduction of the ESU program reflects an understanding of the challenges users and organizations face in transitioning to new operating systems. By offering flexible enrollment options and extending security updates, Microsoft provides a temporary safeguard. However, the emphasis remains on the importance of upgrading to supported systems to ensure long-term security and access to new features.
Users and organizations are encouraged to take advantage of the ESU program while actively planning their migration to Windows 11 or other supported platforms. Proactive planning and timely action will ensure continued security and operational efficiency in the evolving technological landscape.
Source: Elcabildo Windows 10 users who don’t want to upgrade to Windows 11 get a new lifeline from Microsoft - Elcabildo
Last edited:
