The countdown has begun. Windows 10 will no longer be supported on October 14, 2025. This means that in less than a year, all users will still be using this operating system will stop receiving security updates. The main consequence of this scenario will be increased exposure to threats circulating on the Internet.

On this occasion, we will have at our disposal a solution that has so far been limited only to corporate users: pay to continue receiving updates. This is the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which allows us to extend the life of the operating system for an extraordinary, but certain period of time.

ESU pricing for Windows 10

Until now, Microsoft had announced that the annual ESU license would cost $61 for business customers. This led many to think that the Redmond company would maintain the same price for the remaining users, but this was not the case. Non-corporate customers who want to participate in the program must make a discounted payment.

We are talking about a one-time payment of $30. In return we will get access to the extended update program, but only for a period of one year. What does this mean? We basically won’t be able to pay another $30 to renew the license and continue receiving security updates on Windows 10.

Corporate users, who start by paying $61 per year, can extend their stay in the program for a while. maximum three year period. Now this also has a cost. The license price will double every year. And if that’s not enough, if they decide to enter in the second year, they will also have to pay the first year’s fee.

Microsoft’s message is clear: It wants users to switch to Windows 11. But it’s not that simple either. The bar for entry into the new operating system is too high for some users, especially in terms of hardware requirements. And it’s not as easy as adding more RAM, this time the requirements are much more present.

There are many processors that are left out of the equation that ensures Windows 11 compatibility. Additionally, computers must have TPM 2.0. Calculations a year ago, approx. 400 million computers This situation, which could not be updated to Windows 11, would force owners to buy new computers.

Pictures | Microsoft

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