Still on Windows 10? ESU could be the answer

Breaking [old] news: Microsoft support for Windows 10 ends on 14 October 2025.

The IT support community has done its best to spread the word, both within their own customer bases and to wider business connections.  Computer Troubleshooters has played its part with blogs such as this one and social media posts on LinkedIn.

Why does it matter if you do nothing about your Windows 10 PCs?  It matters because Microsoft will no longer provide patching and security updates after 14 October which will leave your business more vulnerable to cyber-attacks.

There are many reasons why business computer users still have Windows 10 computers:

• The message of Windows 10 End of Life (EOL) hasn’t resonated
• Upgrading PCs is a lower priority task than other business demands
• There is no budget available to purchase new kit
• The current Windows 10 machines are in good condition – too good to scrap
• You are planning to downsize/retire within the next year so the investment in new PCs cannot be justified
• Simple inertia and procrastination.

If your Windows 10 computers have a good enough specification, they can be upgraded to Windows 11.  If you have this option, it is recommended that you do this without delay; the Windows 10 countdown has started ticking, after all.

What should you do if you are out of the obvious options of upgrading or replacing?

ESU could be your friend and saviour.

ESU stands for Extended Security Updates.  This is a licence which can be obtained from Microsoft to provide your computers with continued updates.  There may be a cost involved – the Microsoft eligibility rules are quite complex – but it will still be way cheaper than purchasing a new machine.  

If you want to know more about the different flavours (and costs) of ESU, the main categories to explore are “consumer” and “business”.  Even if your organisation is a business, your computers may qualify as “consumer” appliances in the eyes of Microsoft as far as ESU is concerned.

If you want to continue using that trusty old Windows 10 computer safely, ask your friendly IT support team about implementing ESU.  It could be a business saver.