Microsoft details Windows 10 security update costs and support end dates

Microsoft has released updated guidelines regarding its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10 as the operating system nears the end of its regular support lifecycle. For the first year following the end of support, the cost for ESU will be $61 per device. This price is set to double annually for each subsequent year. However, organizations utilizing cloud-based management solutions like Microsoft Intune or Windows Autopatch can access a reduced rate of $45 per device in the first year.

The ESU program is limited to a maximum duration of three years, meaning critical updates will only be available through October 2027.

Additionally, Microsoft has issued warnings to organizations using Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021, noting that official support is expected to end in January 2027. Users of this version will no longer receive security patches or technical corrections after that time. As a successor, Microsoft has positioned Windows 11 Enterprise LTSC 2024, which offers a five-year support period ending in October 2029. An exception remains for Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021, which will receive updates until January 2032.