In a recent blog post, Microsoft’s Jason Leznek, the principal product manager for Windows servicing and delivery, disclosed that Extended Security Updates (ESUs) will be available for Windows 10, similarly to the approach taken with Windows 7. A Microsoft spokesperson also confirmed that these updates will be accessible to individual consumers.
However, these updates won’t be available without a price tag. Customers who will seek monthly security updates will need to invest in an annual ESU subscription, that will be renewable for up to two additional years. By subscribing, a customer could potentially prolong the life of a Windows 10 PC from the official end-of-support date in October 2025 to October 10, 2027.
There’s still no information about the ESU subscription cost.
Unlike the Windows 10 to Windows 11 transition, which leaves around 400 million PCs unable to upgrade due to higher hardware standards, the primary obstacle for most Windows 10 PCs is not the TPM 2.0 support requirement but rather pre-2019 CPUs that are not on Microsoft’s approved list.
Replacing the device before the end-of-support date is recommended for those with Windows 10 PCs not meeting Windows 11 requirements. However, if the preference is to retain a functional older PC without spending additional funds, there are still a couple of workarounds for installing Windows 11.