In less than a year, Windows 10 will officially reach its end of life, leaving Microsoft with the tough job of safeguarding and updating millions of computers.
Earlier this year, Microsoft revealed that it will offer the Extended Security Updates programme to regular consumers for the first time.
Now, Microsoft has revealed how much it will cost to continue receiving Windows 10 updates after October 14, 2025.
In a blog post, Microsoft announced: “We want to ensure you are well-prepared for the transition to Windows 11. This milestone marks an important step in our mission to provide the most modern and secure computing experience possible for everyone, whether at work, school, or home, and our commitment to continually improving Windows security as part of Microsoft’s Secure Future Initiative (SFI).”
The company highlights the key benefits of moving to Windows 11 in this informative blog post.
It also shares further information about eligible machines for the upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11, noting that in some cases, there are no costs involved.
The ESU programme allows users to obtain essential monthly security patches after October 14, 2025, ensuring their systems stay protected from evolving cyber threats.
In contrast to previous ESU offerings that were restricted to commercial clients, this new subscription will now cater to consumers using personal devices.
This subscription will operate on an annual basis, providing monthly updates that focus solely on critical security issues identified by Microsoft’s Security Response Centre.
After October 2025, Windows 10 will only receive essential security patches, with no additional features or improvements planned.
For those unable to upgrade to Windows 11 due to hardware limitations, such as the absence of TPM 2.0, this $30 subscription appears to be a viable option. Microsoft has yet to provide complete details about the ESU programme for individuals.
From November 1, Microsoft will offer the standard 5-by-5 Extended Security Update (ESU) option on the Volume Licensing price list, with the first ESU rollout expected in November 2025.
Microsoft previously announced, it would ending support for Windows 10 beyond 2025.
Users running Windows 10 can check their eligibility for upgrading to Windows 11 by visiting this link.