The company extends support for Windows 10 until 2026 for individual users, although with certain requirements. Businesses will continue to pay for each device.
Microsoft has made an unexpected shift in its strategy regarding the end of support for Windows 10. While it initially announced that the Extended Security Updates (ESU) would be paid for all users, it will now allow access to them for free for one year, provided certain requirements are met. This measure aims to alleviate the concerns of millions of users who still rely on this operating system and have not migrated to Windows 11.
The end of official support remains set: October 14, 2025
Windows 10 will stop receiving technical support and security updates on October 14, 2025. This date marks the end of the official lifecycle of the system, which was launched in 2015 and, according to StatCounter data, is still used by over 65% of Windows users worldwide.
After that date, users who continue to use Windows 10 will be more exposed to cyberattacks, unless they activate the ESU program, which will provide critical and important security updates monthly.
Three options to activate extended updates
Starting July 2025, Microsoft will enable a registration assistant within the operating system that will appear as notifications or from Windows Settings. This assistant will guide the user to activate the ESU through one of these three pathways:
- Use Windows Backup: This free option syncs user settings and folders with the cloud via OneDrive. However, a Microsoft account is required, and the storage service only offers 5 GB for free, which may be insufficient for many users.
- Redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points: Also at no direct cost, but it requires having previously accumulated points through the use of Microsoft products and services (such as Bing, Edge, Xbox Game Pass, etc.).
- Pay $30 (or local equivalent) for a full year of updates. This option will be particularly useful for those who do not wish to use OneDrive or have not accumulated enough Rewards points.
These three options are targeted exclusively at individual users. In all cases, free or paid protection will be available until October 13, 2026.
For businesses: paid updates and rising subscriptions
In the case of businesses, Microsoft maintains the pay-per-device model. The first year of ESU will cost $61 per device, with possible renewals for two more years. However, Microsoft has confirmed that the price will gradually increase each year.
These subscriptions will be available through the volume licensing program, Microsoft Cloud Solution Provider, and other business channels starting September 2025.
On the other hand, customers of Windows 365 —Microsoft’s cloud PC solution— and other virtualized environments will be able to benefit from extended updates at no additional cost, reinforcing the company’s commitment to its cloud solutions.
Market pressure and unofficial alternatives
Microsoft’s decision to offer free updates to end-users is also a response to market pressure. In recent months, companies have emerged that offered unofficial ESUs at lower prices, and some even promised protection at no cost, undermining Microsoft’s initial stance.
Additionally, the reluctance of many users to migrate to Windows 11 —due to hardware incompatibility or preference for the previous interface— has made the adoption of the new system challenging.
Conclusion: an extension with fine print
Although the announcement represents good news for the millions of users still on Windows 10, it is not a real extension of official support, but rather an alternative and conditional way to remain protected for one more year. Users who do not upgrade to Windows 11 must act before October 2025 to activate the ESU through one of the available options.
In the medium term, Microsoft will continue to promote the adoption of Windows 11, especially on new PCs that are compatible with AI features like Copilot+ PCs, and in the cloud through Windows 365.
Meanwhile, the message is clear: the countdown has begun, and those who wish to remain on Windows 10 beyond 2025 will need to make informed decisions and accept the limitations or requirements imposed.
via: Incubaweb