Understanding ESU Subscription Options and Alternatives
An ESU subscription offers customers the convenience of receiving updates automatically through Windows Update. Following Microsoft’s established practices, these updates are also likely to be accessible for individual download via the Microsoft Update Catalog. While this method is straightforward, it can be somewhat laborious for those looking to save on costs. A proactive customer might consider setting a calendar reminder to check for new updates a day or two after their release, typically scheduled for the second Tuesday of each month. For individuals managing one or two PCs, this manual installation process could serve as a viable workaround.
For those seeking a more streamlined approach, a subscription to the third-party service 0patch presents an interesting alternative. This service promises to deliver “critical security patches” for Windows 10 for a minimum of five years following the end-of-support date. The cost, which ranges between and per PC annually (depending on current exchange rates and excluding tax), offers a potentially cost-effective solution. It’s important to note that the patches provided by 0patch are not mere replicas of Microsoft’s updates. As the service articulates:
“With 0patch, you will be receiving security ‘micropatches’ for critical, likely-to-be-exploited vulnerabilities that get discovered after October 14, 2025. These patches will be really small, typically just a couple of CPU instructions (hence the name), and will get applied to running processes in memory without modifying a single byte of original Microsoft’s binary files.”
On the other end of the spectrum, there exist unauthorized alternatives, such as the PowerShell activation scripts offered by the Massgrave hacking collective. These scripts enable users to bypass Microsoft’s licensing agreements and register for a three-year ESU subscription without incurring any costs. However, it is crucial to highlight that utilizing these scripts is illegal. Businesses that opt for such methods expose themselves to significant risks, including potential audits and lawsuits. The question remains: do you feel lucky enough to take that chance?
