Although Windows 10 officially loses support in October 2025, Microsoft surprised many users by announcing a new, unusual approach to security. Instead of Withclose the door, leave the gate open – and that for up to a year, and in the case of companies even longer. It has provided three paths that allow you to keep the system in a safe state until October 13, 2026, without the need for immediate migration. What's more, one of them is completely free, and another requires only a few clicks – these are options created with ordinary users in mind, not just large corporations. Below I explain each of them.
One year of free consumer support
Home users can benefit from free security updates for another year (until October 13, 2026), provided they activate Windows Backup, which syncs settings and folders with OneDrive. A simplified introduction to ESU will be made possible by a new wizard available in Windows Settings from July/August 2025.
Paid or Point ESU Options
Alternatively, users can obtain ESU via:
• purchase of a license for approximately $30,
• exchange 1,000 points Microsoft Rewards.
Companies, on the other hand, can extend support up to three years, starting at $61 per year per device.
Why does it matter?
• For Windows 10 owners, it is possible to continue to use the system safely without the pressure to immediately migrate.
• Companies gain flexibility in planning switching to Windows 11 or replacing equipment without the risk of security breaches.
• Microsoft uses this strategy to encourage migration to Windows 11, while promoting the new features and security offered by the newer system.
Windows 10 End of Support – What Does That Exactly Mean?
IN on October 14, 2025 Microsoft will end standard support for Windows 10 – meaning the system will no longer receive:
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• Security updates (including critical and important patches),
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• Non-security bug fixes,
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• Technical support and user assistance
This does not mean, however, that Windows 10 computers will stop working immediately - after this date, the OS will continue to function, but it will be:
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Vulnerable to new threats, because there will be no security patches,
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Not compliant with compliance regulations and recommendations in business, e.g. GDPR, PCI-DSS, industry standards.
No updates = more risk
While the system still works, with each new security flaw, Windows 10 becomes an increasingly insecure platform. Over time, devices can become vulnerable to malware, ransomware, and even network protocol vulnerabilities.
For whom are these changes most important?
Home/Pro users:
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• They will lose access to new patches and fixes,
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• They can continue to use the system, but at their own risk.
Companies (Enterprise/Education):
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• Lack of support will have formal consequences – loss of compliance with regulations, certifications,
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• They should use alternatives such as ESU or migration – especially considering security requirements
Summary
• This is not a system blocking -Windows 10 still works,
• Does not apply to all Microsoft services – Defender and MS 365 will continue to be updated,
• This is a signal to make a decision – are you migrating or using ESU?
Users will still receive Defender intelligence updates (until 2028) and updates to the Microsoft 365 suite, even without ESU.
This is a good time to establish a strategy: migration Whether extension of support? If you need help with your choice, the ProsteIT team is always here to help.
Need help migrating Windows?
Great. Our team will help you migrate to Windows 11 in a simple and clear way without disruptions. We have experience in migrating for dozens of companies, so we are the right choice for your company.
Write to usNew Extended Security Updates(ESU) options – what you need to know
Microsoft has introduced three alternatives that will allow Windows 10 users to receive secure updates down October 13, 2026 – one year after standard support ends. I explain each of them below.
One year of free support for consumers
• Just turn it on Windows Backup (an app built into Windows 10) to save your settings and important folders to your Microsoft account and OneDrive.
• This way you will get full security without incurring any costs.
• It is worth remembering that free space in OneDrive is only 5GB – If you exceed your limit, you will need to purchase additional space.
This variant is only available for Home/Pro users, it does not work in a corporate environment or on computers connected to domains.
Microsoft Rewards Points Support
• You can also pick up ESU for free exchanging 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points.
• This is an alternative for users who want to avoid configuring cloud backup but actively use Microsoft programs.
Paid ESU - for everyone
• The third option is classic: purchase of ESU for $30 for one device.
• This solution is available to every individual user who wants to guarantee updates without complicated configuration or point exchange.
ESU for companies (Enterprise/Education)
• Companies and institutions can purchase ESU on maximum 3 years after 14/10/2025, i.e. until 2028.
• Cost starts from $61 for one computer in the first year and doubles in subsequent years ($122 in year 2, $244 in year 3).
• Educational licenses offer much cheaper rates, e.g. $1 for the first year, $2 for the second, and $4 for the third.
How does it work in practice?
From July/August 2025 will appear in Windows Update ESU creator, which will guide you step by step: choosing how to obtain ESU → logging in to your Microsoft account → activating ESU.
After selecting the option and correct configuration, the system will automatically download updates from Microsoft servers.
The ESU license is linked to your Microsoft account and can be activated on maximum of 10 devices.
What does ESU not cover?
• You will not receive new features, non-functional fixes, or technical support (outside of ESU itself).
• ESU does not include systems connected to AD, MDM, or devices in kiosk mode.
ESU is a temporary solution – it secures but does not modernize the system.
Which option should I choose?
• You have a Microsoft account and want to save money → free year for Windows Backup.
• You are actively using Microsoft Rewards → exchanging 1,000 points is a convenient alternative.
• You need simplicity and you have the means → you can buy ESU for $30.
• You are a company or school → Enterprise ESU available for up to 3 years, flexible and scalable.
Terms and technical details – what you need to know
To efficiently migrate or extend support, it is necessary to thoroughly understand the terms and technical conditions. Here are the details:
Key Dates
| Group | End of standard support | The end of free ESU | The end of paid ESU |
|---|---|---|---|
| Consumers (Home/Pro) | October 14, 2025 | October 13, 2026 | - |
| Business/Education (Enterprise) | October 14, 2025 | - | until October 10, 2028 (maximum 3 years) |
| IoT Enterprise LTSC | - | - | until January 13, 2032 |
Home/Pro – qualify for a free one-year ESU when Windows Backup is enabled.
Enterprise/Education – can activate paid ESU for a maximum of 3 years.
Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 – extremely durable: supported until January 2032, but licensed through volume licensing and intended primarily for industrial use.
Technical scope and limitations
• No technical support and non-functional updates for all groups – ESU includes security patches only.
• Consumers are not entitled to technical support – help is limited to ESU problems.
• ESU does not cover Active Directory or MDM managed devices/kiosks ﹗This means that migration is necessary in corporate environments.
Activation Conditions
Consumer:
• Activation via Windows Update Wizard from July 2025,
• Requires Windows Backup and Microsoft Account Login to be enabled,
• Possibility to connect to OneDrive (5 GB limit). If exceeded – additional subscription.
Business/Education:
• ESU via multi-computer licenses (MAK) from October 2025 profitable for up to three years.
IoT Enterprise LTSC:
• The 2021 version is covered by the traditional Fixed Lifecycle of 5 years mainstream + 5 years extended (until 2032).
What does this mean to you?
• Home users will protect themselves free of charge for a year as long as they activate via Backup and have space in the cloud.
• Companies and organizations should prepare a budget and strategy for up to 3 years of migration or plan to implement Windows 11.
• Specialized devices (IoT/LTSC) can operate long and stably, but require volume licensing and license compliance.
Why is Microsoft pushing for migration to Windows 11?
Microsoft is running a strong campaign to get Windows 10 users to upgrade to Windows 11 – here are the main reasons behind this strategy:
“The Year of the PC Refresh” and AI Promotion
• On CES 2025 Microsoft Announces It's "Year of the Windows 11 PC Refresh", encouraging users to buy new Windows 11 computers, especially those equipped with Copilot+ and AI support.
• Windows 11 is packed with more and more artificial intelligence features, including: ccontextual opilot, AI tools in system settings, the Recall feature, and generative tools in Microsoft Edge.
Improved security and compliance
Windows 11 is a more advanced system in terms of security: it requires TPM 2.0, UEFI, Secure Boot, VBS virtualization, HVCI, which makes it harder to attack at the hardware and firmware level. Microsoft wants to have one modern, well-secured system that makes it easier to maintain security and compliance throughout the ecosystem.
Easy and effective migration tools
The feature is being tested in Windows 10 migrating data to Windows 11 via local network – Microsoft is preparing a process for a smooth transition to new hardware. Windows 10 includes full screen notifications and ads, which encourage migration after system updates – sometimes you have to go through several screens to stay with Windows 10.
Marketing Effort and Pressure Practices
Statistica shows that in January 2025, as many as 62 % computers were still running Windows 10 – Microsoft is aggressively promoting Windows 11 to increase its market share. Users often complain about excessive advertising and information in the system, which are intended to motivate the transition to the new version – an effective but controversial method.
Windows 11 Benefits Summary
• Full AI support – Copilot directly in the system, Recall, assistants in settings.
• Higher level of hardware security – TPM and other security features.
• Better user experience and integration with the Microsoft 365 ecosystem.
At the same time, the migration campaign includes soft-push tools (full-screen notifications), marketing practices, and promotion of new PCs – which may be perceived as aggressive by some users.
How to prepare for change – step by step with ProsteIT
Windows 11 Hardware Compatibility Check
Download and run the "PC Health Check" application
• Find it in the Start menu or download it from the Microsoft website.
• Run and click Check nowto evaluate Windows 11 compatibility.
What does the app check?
• Presence of TPM 2.0, UEFI/Secure Boot, compatibility of processor, RAM and disk space.
• If something isn’t working, PC Health Check tells you what to fix – perfect for diagnostics.
Alternative: WhyNotWin11
• In case of managed component errors (AD/MDM) or when PC Health Check does not work, you can use the WhyNotWin11 tool – it will detail the missing hardware requirements.
Pro tip: in the absence of TPM or Secure Boot – often it is enough to activate them in BIOS/UEFI settings. If this does not help, ProsteIT can help you step by step.
Preparing for Windows 11 migration
Backup – always the basis!
– Use Windows Backup to sync your settings and data to OneDrive (also required for free ESU).
– We recommend making a full backup on an additional medium – this way you have full protection.Upgrading to Windows 11
• If your PC meets the requirements, you enter Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates – the option “Upgrade to Windows 11” will appear.
• Alternatively, you can use Windows 11 Installation Assistant – the tool will download the installer and provide a safe transition without data loss.
• The process takes about 30-60 minutes; despite assurances, we recommend a full backup.
After migration
• Check if all drivers and applications are working. In case of problems with printers or VPN, ProsteIT will help with configuration and updating of components.
How to activate ESU - extended support
a) Consumers – free ESU for one year:
It will be launched in July 2025 ESU wizard in Windows 10 Settingswhich will guide you through setup by:
Windows Backup
Redeem Rewards
Purchase for $30
Once selected, the option installs the ESU license and the system automatically starts downloading security updates.
b) Companies and schools – ESU paid:
Purchase the appropriate ESU license (Multiple Activation Key) in Volume Licensing.
Enter license via slmgr.vbs /ipk in a command prompt run as administrator.
Activate the key with the activation ID: slmgr.vbs /ato
Verify activation with command slmgr.vbs /dlv.
SimpleIT helps in all stages: purchasing, installing and activating ESU – quickly and risk-free.
Checklist – before migration or ESU
| Step | For whom? | Description |
|---|---|---|
| ✅ Check your equipment | All | PC Health Check / WhyNotWin11 |
| ✅ Enable Backup | Individual | OneDrive + Windows Backup |
| ✅ Choose ESU | Individual | Windows Backup / Rewards / purchase |
| ✅ Purchase ESU license | Companies | Volume licensing, MAK |
| ✅ ESU Activation | Companies | slmgr.vbs running with key |
| ✅ Migration to Win11 | Compatible | Upgrade via Update or Asst. |
| ✅ Installation Test | All | Check drivers, applications |
How we can help:
• We will assess PC compatibility and hardware support,
• We will calibrate BIOS/UEFI, enable TPM/Secure Boot,
• We will plan the migration or enable ESU,
• We will take care of data backup and recovery,
• We implement Windows 11 on company workstations without any disruptions to work
Frequently asked questions
What will happen to Microsoft 365 after Windows 10 ends support?
Will Windows 10 stop working after October 14, 2025?
Does ESU work on multiple devices connected to one license?
Does ESU cover all Windows 10 tile types, e.g. 32-bit?
When will ESU installation begin for individual users?
How long can companies use ESU?
Who cannot benefit from free ESU?
Do I need to purchase additional OneDrive storage to use free ESU?
Do I need technical support to use ESU?
Is ESU a long-term solution?
October 14, 2025 – standard support for Windows 10 is ending, but the system continues to work.
ESU is a temporary safety option:
• Free year for home users (Backup, Rewards),
• Paid options: $30/year for consumers, up to 3 years of ESU for businesses ($61–$244/year).
Why migration?
• Windows 11 offers better hardware security, AI integration and compliance with new standards, which is why Microsoft is strongly encouraging the switch.
What to do now?
• Check the condition of the equipment,
• Decide: ESU or migration,
• Use the checklist and ProsteIT support.
With you in mind – what is worth doing today:
Review – how ESU works and what options you have (including Free, Rewards, purchase).
Assess your hardware's compatibility with Windows 11 (PC Health Check, WhyNotWin11).
Decide – extend support or prepare for migration.
Take advantage of ProsteIT – we will help you at every stage: from hardware assessment, through ESU activation, migration, to data security.
If the topic concerns your company or home computer – contact us. We will be happy to help you choose the best solution and guide you through the entire process.
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