Microsoft Extends Security Patching for Windows Products at a Cost

Microsoft to Offer Extended Security Updates for Three Windows Products at a Cost

Three Windows products released in 2016 will reach their end-of-support deadlines starting in October 2026. Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016 and Windows 10 IoT Enterprise 2016 LTSB will cease receiving security patches and other updates on October 13, 2026, while Windows Server 2016 will follow suit on January 12, 2027.

Extended Security Updates (ESU) Program

However, organizations still relying on these products can opt for Extended Security Updates (ESU), a paid program that allows certain legacy Microsoft products to continue receiving security updates beyond their end-of-support dates.

• The ESU program, which does not include new features or technical support, will be available for up to three years after the initial end-of-support dates.
• Pricing for the first year starts at $61 per device, with a discount to $45 per device for systems managed through Microsoft Intune or Windows Autopatch.
• The cost will double each subsequent year, and ESU licenses are cumulative, meaning organizations must also pay for previous years of coverage.

Microsoft Recommendations

Microsoft has not officially disclosed ESU pricing for Windows Server 2016. The company recommends upgrading to the latest Long-Term Servicing Channel releases, including Windows Server 2025 and Windows 11 Enterprise LTSC 2024, as the preferred long-term solution.

European Economic Area (EEA) Policy Change

In response to pressure from Euroconsumers, a European consumer advocacy group, Microsoft changed its ESU policy in the European Economic Area (EEA) last year. As a result, Windows 10 users in the EEA will have access to ESU until October 14, 2026, without payment or the need to back up their settings, apps, or credentials to a Microsoft cloud account.

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