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Is the Extended Microsoft 365 Support for Windows 10 a Game-Changer or a Risk?
Windows 10 support officially ends on October 14, 2025. After this date, Microsoft will no longer provide free security updates, technical assistance, or feature enhancements for Windows 10 Home, Pro, and Education editions.
Microsoft is offering Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 10 version 22H2. ESU is a paid subscription that allows users and organizations to receive critical and important security updates for up to three additional years, until October 2028.
For individuals, the ESU costs $30 per year. For businesses, the first year is $61 per device, with the price doubling each subsequent year. ESUs are cumulative, so joining late means paying for previous years.
Microsoft 365 Apps (Office apps like Word, Excel, Outlook) will continue to receive security updates on Windows 10 through October 10, 2028, even after Windows 10’s end of support. This policy applies regardless of whether the device is enrolled in ESU.
After October 14, 2025, Microsoft 365 Apps will still function on Windows 10, but running them on an unsupported operating system may lead to performance and reliability issues.
Microsoft strongly recommends upgrading to Windows 11 for full support and optimal security. Devices that do not meet Windows 11 requirements can consider alternatives like Windows 365 Cloud PC, Linux, or ChromeOS Flex.
Extended Support Options for Windows 10
Extended Security Updates (ESU)
- Available for Windows 10 version 22H2 only.
- Paid annual subscription for up to three years post end-of-support.
- Includes only critical and important security updates.
- No new features, nonsecurity updates, or general technical support included.
Microsoft 365 Apps Security Updates
- Security updates for Microsoft 365 Apps on Windows 10 will continue until October 10, 2028.
- Updates are delivered through standard Office update channels.
- No new features or nonsecurity updates; only security patches are provided.
- Support incidents will be limited: troubleshooting is available, but bug logging or product update requests are not accepted after October 2025.
Alternative Paths
- Upgrade to Windows 11 if hardware is compatible.
- Consider Windows 365 Cloud PC or Azure Virtual Desktop for three years of ESU at no extra cost if subscribed.
- Switch to Linux or ChromeOS Flex if Windows 11 upgrade is not possible.
What This Means for Users and Organizations
The extension of Microsoft 365 security updates on Windows 10 provides a significant safety net for users and organizations unable to transition to Windows 11 by the 2025 deadline. This move reduces immediate security risks and offers more time for planning hardware or OS upgrades.
Continuing to use Windows 10 after October 2025, even with security updates, increases the risk of performance and compatibility issues. Microsoft will not address bugs or provide nonsecurity updates, and technical support will be limited.
The ESU program can become expensive for organizations, as the cost doubles each year and is cumulative if you join late.
Action Steps
- Evaluate your device compatibility with Windows 11 and plan upgrades where feasible.
- Budget for ESU costs if you must continue using Windows 10 beyond October 2025.
- Inform users about the limitations of running Microsoft 365 Apps on unsupported systems.
- Consider alternative operating systems if upgrading is not viable.
The extension of Microsoft 365 security updates for Windows 10 until 2028 offers a much-needed transition period for businesses and individuals. However, relying on an unsupported OS carries increasing risks and costs over time. Proactive planning for migration or alternative solutions is essential to maintain security and productivity