Microsoft Backpedals – Again

Procrastinators – this good news is for you! Nearly two years ago we were joining in the chorus of IT-minded people telling everyone to upgrade to Windows 11 before the October 2025 end-of-support date for Windows 10. But then Microsoft relented and created the “Extended Security Update” (ESU) program that would, for $30, continue to provide security patches for Windows 10 through October 2026. Shortly after that, Microsoft clarified that most people could get the year-long extension for free with a few easily-achieved account settings. But a large campaign made it clear that you should go and buy a new Windows 11 computer before October of this year or you could be at risk. Now, Microsoft appears to have relented to pressure once more and has quietly changed the end date of the ESU program to October 2027. The original blog post from June 2025 announcing the availability of the ESU program was edited last week to reflect the extra year, but apart from that there has been no overt announcement. Note that this only applies to consumers; business users still have to purchase one, two, or three-year license extensions. So if you’ve been putting off replacing that aging Windows 10 computer you can procrastinate a little longer. But definitely upgrade before October 2027…maybe?