- Microsoft launched the Windows 10 Extended Security Updates for individual consumers.
- Pricing concerns surround Windows 10 ESU and its potential impact on users.
- Balancing stability and security in the tech world: Microsoft’s approach to operating system support.
Microsoft’s decision to offer Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 10 after 2025’s support end raises concerns about costs and pressures to adopt Windows 11, setting a precedent for future OS support.
A hidden blessing
Microsoft’s decision to offer Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for Windows 10 to individual consumers after the official end of support in 2025 is a hidden blessing for those who value stability in their computing environment. It recognises that not everyone is eager to embrace the latest and greatest technology, and allows users to maintain their trusted systems without the pressure of disruptive updates.
With ESUs, users can continue to receive critical security updates, ensuring that their systems remain secure while maintaining the reliability of their existing hardware and software. This may seem like good news for people who have grown dependent on their current computer products, or who don’t have the money to upgrade to the latest systems.
Microsoft breaks tradition
Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, but has decided to offer an Extended Security Updates (ESU) plan for regular users and three additional years of security patches for businesses. This is a significant change from their previous approach of only providing paid security updates to organisations needing to maintain older versions of the operating system.
Microsoft will offer paid Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for Windows 10 users who are unable to upgrade to Windows 11. These ESUs will provide critical and important security updates, helping to reduce the risk of vulnerabilities and potential cyber-attacks but will not include new features, non-security updates, design changes or technical support outside of the ESU.
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Caused concern
As for the pricing of the Windows 10 Extended Security Patch, Microsoft has yet to reveal any specific details, stating that “more details, including pricing, will be announced at a later date”. There are just as many netizens expressing concern about this, with some seemingly believing that forcing people to pay for security updates is just another Microsoft scam. Another wedge being driven into the consumer market in an attempt to normalise subscription-based operating systems.
Others do not think that security patches will come too cheap. As Microsoft promotes Windows 11, this could pressure consumers to adopt the new system, especially if Windows 10 becomes a paid option.
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Microsoft’s move shows their flexible approach to the end of support for operating systems, accommodating users who are not ready to instantly upgrade. Long-term effects depend on ESU pricing, consumer adoption, and cybersecurity changes. Users must balance ESU costs against the benefits and risks of using outdated systems.
