June Microsoft Licensing: Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESUs)

With Windows 10 reaching end of support on October 14, 2025, organizations are beginning to plan for what comes next.

In this month’s update, we take a closer look at recent changes in Microsoft licensing, specifically the introduction of Extended Security Updates (ESUs).

This is a three-year program launching in November 2025 that provides critical and important security patches for devices that can’t be upgraded to Windows 11 due to hardware or application constraints.

What’s New

Microsoft will offer Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for Windows 10 starting November 11, 2025. These updates will provide critical and important security patches for up to three years, through October 2028.

Key details include:

• Year 1 cost: $61 per device.
• Year 2 and 3: Price doubles each year.
• Back payment required: If you join in Year 2 or 3, you must pay for prior years.
• Available through multiple Microsoft licensing channels.
  
  

Why It Matters

For many organizations, replacing or upgrading every Windows 10 device before October 2025 isn’t feasible. ESUs offer a practical solution to maintain security while extending the life of critical systems.

Important considerations:

• No technical support is included—only security updates,
• Windows 10 Home is eligible, with ESUs starting at $30.
• Free ESUs are available for Windows 10 instances running in:
  
  
  • Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD)
  • Windows 365 Cloud PCs

Additionally, Microsoft will offer special promotions for organizations using Microsoft Intune or Windows Autopatch to streamline ESU deployment.

Planning Ahead for Windows 10 ESUs with Sourcepass MCOE

Microsoft positions Extended Security Updates as a last-resort option for organizations that must continue running Windows 10 beyond its end-of-support date. If your organization has devices that can’t be upgraded, now is the time to prepare.

Here are a few key steps to consider:

• Audit your Windows 10 environment to identify devices that may require ESUs
• Budget for multi-year coverage if extended support will be needed through 2028
• Explore cloud-based alternatives like Windows 365 to reduce reliance on legacy systems

If you need help navigating ESUs, or have questions about any Microsoft licensing scenario, reach out to our team of Microsoft licensing consultants today. And make sure you subscribe to our YouTube channel for more monthly Microsoft podcasts and insights on Microsoft licensing changes.