Windows 10 users should already be aware! Microsoft has officially announced that Windows 10 will reach the end of support on October 14, 2025. This means that after this date, all Windows 10 devices will no longer receive official security updates, making the system a prime target for hackers.
In response to this situation, Microsoft has introduced the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, allowing users to continue receiving security updates—but at an additional cost. This policy is primarily aimed at businesses and individual users who are still using Windows 10 but are unable to upgrade to Windows 11 for the time being.
How Much Does the Paid Extension Cost?
Microsoft’s ESU (Extended Security Updates) program is divided into different editions: Enterprise, Professional, and Education. The first-year pricing is as follows:
- Windows 10 Professional: $61 per device
- Windows 10 Enterprise: $45 per device
- Education Edition Devices: Same price as Enterprise ($45 per device)
- Personal & Home Edition: $30 per device
It’s important to note that these prices will increase each year. The costs for 2026 and 2027 will be even higher, though Microsoft has not disclosed the exact increase (rumored to double each year).
In other words, the longer you delay upgrading to Windows 11, the more you’ll have to pay.
Microsoft’s Official Statement: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/whats-new/extended-security-updates
What Are Your Options?
With Windows 10 support ending, users have several choices:
- Upgrade to Windows 11
- If your computer meets Windows 11’s hardware requirements, upgrading as soon as possible is the safest and most cost-effective option to avoid future security risks.
- Continue Using Windows 10 with Paid ESU
- If upgrading isn’t an option but you need security updates, you can purchase Microsoft’s ESU (Extended Security Updates).
- However, this is more suitable for businesses, as the cost may not be worth it for personal users.
- Keep Using Windows 10 Without ESU
- You can choose not to pay for ESU and continue using Windows 10.
- However, this increases your security risks, as your system will no longer receive official security patches, making it vulnerable to viruses, ransomware, and other cyberattacks.
- If you go this route, using third-party antivirus software is strongly recommended.
