Microsoft announces pricing for Windows 10 extended security updates

Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 in October 2025 (not applicable to LTSC versions), which means the operating system will no longer receive security updates, bug fixes, and new features after that time. However, not all users want or are qualified to upgrade to Windows 11 or buy a new PC, especially in the business segment.

For such cases, Microsoft is now offering an Extended Security Program (ESU), which allows the system to still receive additional updates after the operating system ends support. Of course nothing is free. Today, Microsoft officially announced the price of the Extended Security Support Program for Windows 10.

Accordingly, Microsoft will charge 61 USD/1 PC/1 year to participate in the Extended Security Program. The program will last for three years, and those planning to join later will still have to pay for the previous period, as each update is cumulative and includes any security fixes released at the time. before. IT administrators of organizations and businesses will be able to register Windows 10 devices in their systems to the program using the traditional 5 x 5 activation method, with a 25-character key.

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If an organization is using cloud-based update management solutions, it can benefit from a special offer that allows for a 25% discount. The promotion allows companies to secure a first-year ESU for $45 per user (up to five devices).

Finally, the Windows 10 Extended Security Update program will be free for companies using Windows 365 to access cloud-based Windows 11 PCs. ESU is included with a Windows 365 license with a one-year commitment.

Microsoft clearly states that companies should not consider the Extended Security Program as a long-term solution. Instead, Microsoft recommends using this program as a "temporary bridge" while moving to a new, more fully supported version of Windows.

Marvin Fry

Update 04 April 2024