Windows 10, one of Microsoft’s most popular operating systems, is reaching its end of life. The company will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. Usually, developers abandon such operating systems as they move on to providing feature and security updates for the next-generation product. However, for people who wish to continue using Windows 10, the Redmond-based giant will offer Extended Security Updates (ESU) via a yearly subscription model.
Enrol In Microsoft’s Windows 10 ESU Program For Receiving Security Updates
In December 2023, The Verge reported that Microsoft planned to allow consumers to pay for ESUs for Windows 10 when support ends in 2025. This was unusual for the company, given that it has only released paid security updates for businesses or enterprises that need to keep using older operating systems. However, the company announced the ESU program, including critical and/or essential security updates.
“If you’re an individual consumer or an organization who elects to continue using Windows 10 after support ends on October 14, 2025, you will have the option of enrolling your PC in the paid Extended Security Updates (ESU) program,” clarifies Microsoft in an FAQ page. Hence, after the end of support, businesses and organizations must purchase an ESU license for each device that runs on Windows 10.
How Much Will It Cost To Enrol In Microsoft’s Windows 10 ESU Program?
On April 2, 2024, Microsoft updated the Windows IT Pro Blog post to mention the ESU enrolment prices for businesses. For the first year, i.e., to use Windows 10 after October 15, 2025, companies would have to pay $61, which doubles to $122 in the second year. In the third year, the price doubles again to $244 for each device. Further, it’s not like a business can enroll in the program from the second year, as it will have to purchase the first year’s ESUs as well. Educational institutes such as schools will get a massive discount, as they can get an ESU license for $1 for the first year, $2 for the second year, and $4 for the third year.
The company will announce the end-consumer pricing for Windows 10 ESU later. Individuals and companies that intend to keep running their PCs on Windows 10 can purchase the ESU license starting in October 2024. Given that Windows 10 is still used by about 70 percent of all Windows users in the world, there’s a good chance that Microsoft will benefit from releasing the ESU for consumers. It is important to mention that anyone can only purchase the ESU license for a maximum of three years, after which upgrading to Windows 11 will be mandatory.
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