ESU: Extended Security Updates for Unsupported Software

Extended Security Updates (ESU) are vendor-provided patches that extend protection for software versions that have reached their official end of support. ESU programs, such as Microsoft’s for Windows and SQL Server, deliver critical security fixes to reduce risks from vulnerabilities while organizations complete migrations or upgrades. Without ESU, outdated systems become easy targets for cyberattacks, data breaches, and compliance failures. While not a permanent solution, ESU gives businesses more time to plan transitions and maintain security during upgrades. Using ESU alongside strong patch management and monitoring helps organizations balance continuity.

Microsoft Extends Windows 10 Extended Security Updates: What You Need to Know About the 2025-2026 Program

Microsoft Extends Windows 10 Extended Security Updates: What You Need to Know About the 2025-2026 Program

Ravi Jain
Microsoft's Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, a critical measure designed to provide continued security coverage for users beyond the operating system's official end-of-support date of October 14, 2025. It details three flexible enrollment options: a free method via Windows Backup sync, another free option through Microsoft Rewards points, and a direct payment of $30. The program, which runs from October 15, 2025, to October 13, 2026, exclusively offers critical and important security patches, explicitly excluding new features or non-security updates. The document emphasizes that while ESU serves as a temporary bridge for individuals and organizations unable to immediately upgrade to Windows 11, transitioning to a supported operating system remains the recommended long-term strategy for robust cybersecurity. ... Read More