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A Lifeline for Windows 10 Users Before the End
Microsoft has just made a strategic move that could ease the transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11 for millions of users. With the end-of-support deadline for Windows 10 set for October 14, 2025, many home users have been unsure about their next steps. Microsoft now allows these users to extend their system’s security life through its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program — and they can do it for free by redeeming Microsoft Rewards points or using Windows Backup to sync their data to the cloud.
While the official ESU program will cost \$30 for one year, Microsoft is offering alternative ways to enroll at no additional charge, specifically targeting individual users who might be hesitant or financially limited. The enrollment wizard for this program is currently rolling out to Windows Insiders and will become available to all users by mid-August. ESU coverage will start from October 15, 2025, and extend to October 13, 2026.
For businesses and larger organizations, enrollment in the ESU program will cost \$61 per device, with optional renewals for up to three years. These subscriptions are currently available via Microsoft’s Volume Licensing Program and will expand to Cloud Service Providers by September 1.
Microsoft also offers added perks for those accessing Windows 11 Cloud PCs via Windows 365 or virtual machines — ESU coverage will be automatic and cost-free in these cases. Additionally, Microsoft has walked back its earlier plan to drop Microsoft 365 app support on Windows 10. Instead, updates will continue through August 2026, with security updates running through October 2028.
Despite the looming deadline, adoption of Windows 11 remains mixed. According to Statcounter, Windows 10 still dominates over 53% of Windows-based systems globally, showing significant resistance to upgrade even three years after Windows 11’s release. However, among gamers, Windows 11 has gained a stronger foothold, with over 58% using the latest OS, according to Steam’s May 2025 survey.
This move reflects Microsoft’s recognition of the persistent popularity of Windows 10 and its effort to minimize disruption while also nudging users toward the cloud-based future of Windows.
What Undercode Say:
The Economics Behind Free Security
Microsoft’s decision to offer Extended Security Updates for free — if users redeem Rewards points or enable cloud syncing — is not as generous as it seems. It’s a strategic push to deepen user engagement with its ecosystem, particularly Microsoft Rewards and Windows Backup. Both tools help tie users closer to Microsoft’s data-driven infrastructure, setting the stage for smoother migrations to Windows 11 or even a future Windows-as-a-Service model.
A Gentle Push Toward the Cloud
By incentivizing the use of Windows Backup, Microsoft subtly encourages users to store personal data in the cloud. This increases stickiness within the Microsoft ecosystem and boosts Azure usage — the company’s key cloud platform. In essence, the free ESU offer isn’t entirely free — it trades convenience for user data.
Enterprises Pay, Consumers Play
There’s a notable contrast in how Microsoft handles enterprises vs. home users. While consumers can bypass the \$30 ESU fee through Rewards or Backup, enterprises must pay \$61 per device. These higher costs reflect Microsoft’s assumption that organizations value compliance and are willing to pay for peace of mind. However, it could spark pushback, especially for SMBs already grappling with rising IT costs.
Windows 10’s Last Stand
The fact that over 53% of devices still run Windows 10, despite Windows 11 being nearly four years old, signals deep-rooted resistance. This is partly due to hardware compatibility issues and user preference. Microsoft knows it can’t rush everyone into upgrading, so offering ESUs is a compromise to ensure continued security coverage while slowly phasing out Windows 10.
Gamer Trends Show a Different Path
Gamers, always early adopters, are flocking to Windows 11 largely due to performance optimizations and support for newer GPUs and DirectStorage. This highlights a clear bifurcation in user behavior — gamers move quickly, enterprises and casual users resist change. Microsoft’s broader Windows strategy must account for both.
Microsoft’s Shift in Support Philosophy
Reversing the decision to end Microsoft 365 app support on Windows 10 shows Microsoft is listening to user feedback — or watching usage statistics closely. By extending support until 2028, Redmond is signaling its willingness to compromise where user demand justifies it. This flexible approach may buy goodwill, but also highlights the complexities in forcing OS transitions.
Security vs. Compatibility
While the ESU program offers short-term relief, it doesn’t solve the long-term issue of outdated hardware. Many users may avoid upgrading not because they don’t want to, but because they can’t. Microsoft will eventually need to address the widening gap between its software roadmap and hardware realities, especially in developing markets.
Automation and Patching: A New Norm
On a parallel front, Microsoft and partners like Tines are pushing automated patching tools. This marks a broader industry shift from manual patch management to seamless, cloud-based automation. By embedding patching into cloud workflows, IT departments save time while improving system integrity.
🔍 Fact Checker Results:
✅ Microsoft confirmed ESU will be available for \$30 or free via Rewards/Backup
✅ ESU runs from October 15, 2025, to October 13, 2026
✅ Microsoft 365 apps and Defender Antivirus support extended to 2028
📊 Prediction:
Windows 10’s user base will remain dominant until mid-2026, especially among users with older hardware. Microsoft is likely to continue extending support offerings in creative ways, potentially blending incentives with telemetry-driven services. Expect further nudges toward cloud migration and Windows 365 by 2027, solidifying Microsoft’s shift from OS sales to cloud-subscription ecosystems. 🌐🖥️
References:
Reported By: www.bleepingcomputer.com
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