Microsoft has made a significant announcement regarding the future of Windows 10, confirming that mainstream support will officially conclude in October 2025. In light of this, the tech giant is strongly encouraging users to transition to Windows 11. This can be achieved either by upgrading the operating system on their current devices or by purchasing new hardware, particularly as many relatively recent models may not meet the necessary system requirements.
Extended Security Updates for Windows 10
For those who are not ready, able, or willing to make the switch just yet, there is still the option to continue using Windows 10. However, it is important to note that as time progresses, the risks associated with this choice will increase. Microsoft will cease to provide security, bug fixes, and feature updates for the operating system. To mitigate this, users can opt to pay for Extended Security Updates (ESU), a program that has traditionally been available for businesses but is now being extended to personal users for the first time.
The costs associated with this program are as follows:
- Personal users can pay to receive an additional year of security updates.
- Business users will incur a fee of per device for the first year, or per user for up to five devices when utilizing a cloud-based update management solution like Microsoft Intune or Windows Autopatch.
It is crucial to understand that personal users are limited to just one additional year of security updates, meaning that after October 2026, they will no longer receive any updates. In contrast, business customers have the option to extend their updates for up to three years, although the costs escalate annually: from in the first year to 2 in the second year, and 4 in the third year. Given these figures, it may prove more economical for some to invest in new computers rather than continue paying for updates.
It is also essential to keep in mind that even those who choose to pay for the ESU program will only receive security updates. Microsoft has no intention of providing bug fixes or feature updates for Windows 10 moving forward.
While these announcements may not come as a surprise—Microsoft had previously hinted at the introduction of a personal ESU option—the reality remains that millions of users still operate on Windows 10 across both home and business environments. It is anticipated that only a small fraction of these users will take advantage of the new program. Consequently, even with the availability of security updates, the majority of Windows 10 users may find themselves without critical support, potentially leading to complications down the line.
