As the clock ticks down to the end of life for Windows 10, Microsoft is making strategic moves to encourage users to transition to Windows 11. However, the tech giant is also acknowledging the continued preference for its older operating system, which still commands a significant share of the market.
Details of the Extended Security Updates Program
Beginning in November 2025, Microsoft will roll out the Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, designed to provide users with continued support for an additional three years. This initiative comes with a price tag of per year, but users should be prepared for escalating costs, as the price will double annually thereafter.
Interestingly, despite Microsoft’s push for users to embrace Windows 11, a substantial 60% of all Windows installations still run on the nearly obsolete Windows 10, according to data from Statcounter. In contrast, Windows 11 has seen a gradual rise in adoption, now holding a 37% market share.
For those leveraging virtual machines through Windows 365 or Azure Virtual Desktop, there is a silver lining: these users will receive the Extended Security Updates at no additional cost, ensuring that they can maintain a secure environment without incurring extra expenses.
As the landscape of operating systems continues to evolve, Microsoft’s dual approach—encouraging upgrades while providing extended support for legacy systems—highlights the delicate balance between innovation and user preference in the tech industry.
