Windows 10 ESU is going to Cost $61 USD per Device for 1st Year. In 2020, Microsoft introduced the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 7 and Windows 10. It provides extended support for organizations and enterprises beyond the standard end-of-support dates.
Windows 10 support will end on October 14, 2025, except for specific versions. If your organization still needs to use Windows 10 after this date, you can sign up for the Extended Security Update (ESU) program. This program lets you get critical security updates for your Windows 10 PCs while transitioning to Windows 11.
Last December, Microsoft made a plan to handle the transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11, along with Windows 365 and ESU, to ensure your devices stay safe and updated. Let’s review your choices, including a special deal for cloud-based update management users.
In this post, you will learn about the cost of Windows 10 ESU for the first year, which is $61 USD per device. This fee ensures your device receives security updates beyond the standard support period. Considering this cost when planning your organization’s cybersecurity and budget is essential.
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Windows 10 ESU is going to Cost $61 USD per Device for 1st Year
Microsoft intends to provide Extended Security Updates for Windows 10 for a maximum period of 3 years, aiming to offer organizations the best time to upgrade their systems. Windows 10 ESU will cost $61 USD per Device for Year 1, which is explained in detail below.
What are the Supported Version of Windows
Let’s discuss the supported versions of Windows. As Windows 10’s end-of-support approaches, you have 3 options to stay on a supported version.
| Supported Version of Windows | Description |
|---|---|
| Upgrade Your Existing PCs | Upgrade current computers to meet Windows 11 requirements using tools like Windows Autopatch or Intune. |
| Purchase New Windows 11 PCs | Buy new computers with Windows 11 pre-installed, offering enhanced security features and productivity tools. |
| Move to Windows 365 Cloud Service | Transition to Windows 365, a cloud-based service enabling access to Windows 11 from any device. Windows 10 PCs with Windows 365 receive free Extended Security Updates (ESUs). |
Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 10
Signing up for the Windows 10 ESU program means you will continue receiving monthly security updates for your Windows 10 devices, giving you extra time to switch to Windows 11. It is important to note that ESUs are not meant to be permanent solutions but temporary solutions.
- ESU programs do not include new features, non-security fixes, or accommodate design change requests.
- Additionally, the ESU program does not extend technical support for Windows 10 beyond activating the ESU licenses, installing ESU monthly updates, and addressing issues caused by updates.
- If you have Windows 10 devices that you don’t plan to upgrade to Windows 11, you can purchase ESU licenses starting in October 2024, one year before the end of the support date. This allows you to maintain security updates until you are ready to transition.
Options for Activating Extended Security Updates (ESU)
There are 3 different Options for Activating Extended Security Updates (ESU). The different options for Activating Extended Security Updates (ESU) are shown in the table below.
| Options for Activating Extended Security Updates (ESU) | Description | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional 5-by-5 Activation Method | > Download an activation key for each Windows 10 device in the ESU program. > Apply the activation key to individual Windows 10 devices. > Manage activation through scripting or Volume Activation Management Tool (VAMT). > Utilize on-premises management tools like Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) with Configuration Manager for updates. | The initial license fee for Year 1 is $61 USD per device, the same as the Year 1 price for Windows 7 ESU. |
| ESU Activation via Windows 365 | When Windows 10 devices access Windows 11 Cloud PCs through Windows 365, they will be automatically activated to receive security updates. No additional steps are required for activation. | This license is included in the Windows 365 subscription with a one-year commitment, it comes at no extra cost. |
| Cloud-Based Extended Security Updates for PCs | Let’s discuss the Cloud-Based Extended Security Updates for PCs. Organizations using Microsoft’s cloud-based update management solutions, such as Microsoft Intune or Windows Autopatch, can now avail themselves of a special offer. Enjoy a generous – 25% discount on ESU licensing, saving time and money. | This license comes with a discount of about 25%, and in Year 1, it will cost $45 USD per user, covering up to five devices. |
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Author
About the Author: Vidya is a computer enthusiast. She is here to share quick tips and tricks with Windows 11 or Windows 10 users. She loves writing about Windows 11 and related technologies. She is also keen to find solutions and write about day-to-day tech problems.