October 31, 2024 at 02:11PM
Microsoft announced that Windows 10 home users can delay the transition to Windows 11 for an additional year by purchasing Extended Security Updates (ESU) for $30. Windows 10 support ends on October 14, 2025, but specialized versions will receive updates longer. Users are encouraged to check Windows 11 compatibility.
### Meeting Takeaways:
1. **Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU)**:
– Windows 10 home users can delay the upgrade to Windows 11 for one additional year by purchasing ESUs for $30.
– The option to buy ESUs was first announced in December 2023, but this is the first time a price has been provided.
2. **End of Support**:
– Windows 10 will officially reach the end of support on **October 14, 2025**. Post this date, there will be no bug fixes or security updates.
3. **Long-Term Servicing Versions**:
– LTSB and LTSC versions, intended for specialized devices (like medical and industrial equipment), will continue to receive updates beyond the end date for Windows 10.
– Examples include:
– Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021: Extended end date on **January 13, 2032**.
– Windows 10 2016 LTSB: Extended end date on **October 13, 2026**.
4. **ESU Enrollment**:
– Enrollment for the ESU program will begin closer to the end of support in 2025.
5. **Enterprise Updates**:
– Microsoft will start offering ESUs to enterprise customers on **November 1, 2025**, with the first updates being delivered that same month.
6. **Upgrade Recommendations**:
– Microsoft encourages home users to check compatibility for upgrading to Windows 11 or to purchase new Windows 11 PCs if their current systems cannot be upgraded.
– Yusuf Mehdi, Executive Vice President, emphasizes the commitment to facilitate the transition to Windows 11.
7. **Current Usage Statistics**:
– According to Statcounter Global Stats, over **62%** of Windows systems currently operate on Windows 10, while only **33%** are on Windows 11.
8. **Future Updates**:
– Microsoft plans to provide more details on the availability of cloud-based ESU offers and pricing in the future.