As 2025 approaches, Windows 10 users are faced with a tough decision: adapt to Windows 11 or remain on an increasingly obsolete operating system. Microsoft has made its plans clear: support for Windows 10 will officially cease on October 14, 2025. However, for those not eager to make the leap to the latest OS, a lifeline of sorts is being thrown — albeit at a cost.
If you wish to stay on Windows 10 after the support cutoff, you’ll need to invest $30 for an Extended Security Update (ESU) license. This extended support grants users an additional year of critical and important security updates. However, it’s important to note what this payment does NOT cover: new features, bug fixes, or technical support will not be included. Essentially, you get security patches while the rest of the OS continues to stagnate.
Yusuf Mehdi, Microsoft's EVP and Consumer Chief Marketing Officer, indicated this program while acknowledging the concerns of users still clinging to the legacy OS as they navigate the transition to Windows 11, stating, “We understand that some of you may require additional time while moving to a new Windows 11 PC or Copilot+ PC.”
Source: PCMag Middle East Want to Stay on Windows 10 After 2025? It'll Cost You
If you wish to stay on Windows 10 after the support cutoff, you’ll need to invest $30 for an Extended Security Update (ESU) license. This extended support grants users an additional year of critical and important security updates. However, it’s important to note what this payment does NOT cover: new features, bug fixes, or technical support will not be included. Essentially, you get security patches while the rest of the OS continues to stagnate.Yusuf Mehdi, Microsoft's EVP and Consumer Chief Marketing Officer, indicated this program while acknowledging the concerns of users still clinging to the legacy OS as they navigate the transition to Windows 11, stating, “We understand that some of you may require additional time while moving to a new Windows 11 PC or Copilot+ PC.”
The Big Picture: Why Microsoft is Pushing for Upgrades
The motivation behind this shift is clear. Microsoft is keen on transitioning as many users as possible to Windows 11 or inducing them to purchase new hardware that comes pre-installed with the latest OS. This push is not just a marketing whim; it’s aligned with modern hardware standards and software innovations that Windows 11 embraces, making older machines seem like ancient relics locked in a digital dungeon.The Business Tier: More Costs, More Years
For businesses looking to extend their usage of Windows 10, the ESU license comes with a hefty price tag: $61 per device for the first additional year, doubling annually for a maximum of three years. This kind of financial pressure might just force many organizations to reevaluate their strategies regarding device upgrades — if they haven't already.Hardware Limitations: The Justification for Extended Support
An interesting point raised by advocacy groups is the sheer number of machines at risk of obsolescence. An estimated 400 million PCs could be rendered useless, according to the advocacy group PIRG, simply due to hardware limitations that prevent them from upgrading to Windows 11. This concern has led to calls for free, automatic updates to keep these machines secure, ensuring a smoother transition for users still hanging onto their trusty (though aging) devices.What Should Users Do?
As the October deadline looms, users have some choices to consider:- Pay the Fee: If you plan to stick with Windows 10, the $30 ESU payment will be your ticket to maintaining some semblance of security.
- Upgrade Soon: To avoid any fees, taking the plunge into Windows 11 as soon as possible is recommended. Remember, newer systems will not only provide a more secure environment but can also significantly enhance performance and productivity.
- Assess Your Hardware: Before making a decision, it’s wise to evaluate whether your current device meets the hardware requirements for Windows 11. You may find investing in new hardware is a more worthwhile decision than continually funding an outdated OS.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on announcements from Microsoft, as further developments regarding the ESU program or other support options may arise as the 2025 deadline approaches.
Conclusion: The Transition to a New Era
While the prospect of having to shell out money for continued support on Windows 10 is frustrating for many, it reflects a broader industry trend of pushing users toward newer technologies. With security vulnerabilities on the rise, staying up-to-date with software is more crucial now than ever. For Windows users, now is the time to evaluate your needs, be it through an upgrade to Windows 11 or opting to pay for extended security updates. The tech landscape is evolving — don’t get left behind in the past!Source: PCMag Middle East Want to Stay on Windows 10 After 2025? It'll Cost You
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