What happens after Windows 10 support ends in October 2025?

Starting October 14, 2025, Microsoft will stop support for Windows 10, which means that regular security or feature updates will no longer be provided. But what if you can’t or don’t want to switch to Windows 11 immediately for various reasons? In this blog article, we’ll explain how you can continue to receive important updates for Windows 10.

What happens after Windows 10 support ends?
After Windows 10 support ends, users will no longer receive new security updates or patches. This means that your system becomes more vulnerable to security gaps, antivirus problems and other vulnerabilities. Without updates, your computer is increasingly at risk because new threats can no longer be fended off.

However, Microsoft offers a paid solution with Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) for companies, institutions and private users who want to continue using Windows 10. These extended security updates make it possible to continue to receive important security fixes even after regular support ends.

Who is the Windows 10 ESU program suitable for?
The ESU program is primarily aimed at companies and institutions that rely on certain software that is not yet fully compatible with Windows 11. However, it can also be of interest to private users who, for example, use older devices that do not meet the minimum requirements for Windows 11.

The Extended Security Updates (ESU) can be purchased directly from Microsoft or authorized resellers. Prices start at around 30 USD per year for the individual version (home users), although the price may vary depending on the number of devices and license type. After purchase, the ESU will be activated directly for your Windows 10 installation and you will continue to receive the latest security updates and patches. You can view the conditions for companies and educational institutions here: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/whats-new/extended-security-updates

What updates are included in the ESU package?
The ESU package only includes security updates for Windows 10. This means that Microsoft does not provide any new features or feature updates. The ESUs focus on closing known security vulnerabilities and protecting your system from malware and hacker attacks. For many users who are primarily interested in the security of their system, this offer can be a sensible solution.

When should I switch from Windows 10 to Windows 11?
While the Extended Security Updates are a temporary solution, the long-term switch to Windows 11 is the best choice for most users. Windows 11 not only offers improved security, but also many new features and a modernized user interface. Therefore, you should consider upgrading to Windows 11 if possible, especially if your PC meets the minimum requirements.

Advantages and disadvantages of Windows 10 ESU
Advantages:

  • Continuous security updates even after the official end of support for Windows 10.
  • No need to switch to Windows 11 immediately.

Disadvantages:

  • Only security updates, no new features or improvements.
  • Limited availability (only possible until 2028).
  • Upgrading to Windows 11 is required after the ESU period has expired.

Conclusion: Is Windows worth it? 10 ESU?
For users who are not yet ready to upgrade to Windows 11 or whose devices are not compatible, Extended Security Updates (ESU) offer a cost-effective way to keep their Windows 10 system secure and continue to protect the system until the final upgrade to Windows 11. The ESU option is already available for companies and institutions, and it will be offered to private users later this year. However, remember that this is only a temporary solution, and in the long term, switching to Windows 11 will be the better decision.