Microsoft Extends Security Updates for Older Windows Versions – But at a Cost
Microsoft has announced Extended Security Update (ESU) programs for Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016, Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSB 2016, and Windows Server 2016. This move provides a temporary lifeline for organizations still running these older operating systems, but it comes with a significant price tag.
End-of-Life Dates and What They Mean
These versions of Windows will reach their end of support on different dates. Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016 and Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSB 2016 will no longer receive security updates or technical assistance after October 13, 2026. Windows Server 2016 will follow on January 12, 2027.
- Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016: October 13, 2026
- Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSB 2016: October 13, 2026
- Windows Server 2016: January 12, 2027
The Price of Continued Security
The ESU program for Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016 will be available starting in the second quarter of 2026 through volume licensing channels and Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) partners. The initial cost is $61 per device for the first year. However, this price doubles annually, and the updates are cumulative. This means delaying enrollment will result in paying for previous years retroactively. Over three years, the cost per device could exceed $400.
Pricing for Windows Server 2016 ESUs remains unspecified. For the IoT edition, Microsoft directs inquiries to the original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).
Navigating ESU in Europe: Avoiding Confusion
European users need to differentiate between two programs. A free consumer ESU for Windows 10 22H2, enabled by the Digital Markets Act and Euroconsumers, provides one year of updates (until October 2026) for home users. This is separate from the commercial ESU programs announced for enterprise editions (LTSB 2016, Server 2016), which have a global, standardized price.
Microsoft’s Recommendation: Upgrade, Don’t Extend
Microsoft strongly advises organizations to migrate to newer operating systems like Windows Server 2025, Windows 11 Enterprise LTSC 2024, or, as an alternative, Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021. The company clearly positions ESUs as a temporary measure, not a long-term strategy.
The Broader Trend: The Rising Cost of Legacy Software
Microsoft’s ESU program highlights a growing trend in the software industry: the increasing cost of maintaining legacy systems. As software ages, the risk of security vulnerabilities increases, and the cost of providing support rises. Vendors are increasingly incentivizing customers to upgrade to newer versions by making continued support for older versions expensive.
Why Organizations Delay Upgrades
Despite the benefits of upgrading, many organizations delay the process due to several factors:
- Compatibility Concerns: Ensuring that critical applications are compatible with newer operating systems can be a complex and time-consuming process.
- Budget Constraints: Upgrading software and hardware requires significant investment.
- Disruption to Operations: The upgrade process can disrupt business operations, even with careful planning.
The Future of Extended Security Updates
We can expect to observe more vendors offering ESU programs as the lifecycle of software continues to lengthen. These programs will likely grow more expensive over time, further incentivizing organizations to prioritize upgrades. The focus will shift towards proactive migration strategies rather than reactive patching of older systems.
FAQ
Q: What is an ESU?
A: An Extended Security Update is a paid program that provides security updates for operating systems that have reached their end of support.
Q: Who should consider purchasing an ESU?
A: Organizations that cannot immediately upgrade to a newer operating system due to compatibility or budgetary constraints.
Q: How long are ESUs available?
A: The duration of ESU availability varies, but typically extends support for a limited number of years after the end of life.
Q: Is the free Windows 10 ESU the same as the paid ESU?
A: No. The free ESU is for consumer versions in Europe and provides only one year of updates. The paid ESU is for enterprise versions globally and has a tiered pricing structure.
Did you grasp? Microsoft recommends migrating to newer operating systems as the most secure and cost-effective long-term solution.
Pro Tip: Begin planning your operating system upgrade well in advance to minimize disruption and ensure a smooth transition.
Have questions about your organization’s Windows upgrade strategy? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
