Microsoft Unveils Extended Security Updates Pricing for Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021
Microsoft has recently disclosed the pricing structure for its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program pertaining to Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021, which is set to reach its end of support on January 12, 2027. For organizations that wish to continue benefiting from security patches beyond this date, the costs will begin at $61 per device for the initial year. However, organizations should prepare for the costs to double each subsequent year until the ESU program concludes on January 8, 2030. Notably, ESU licenses will become available for purchase on September 1, 2026. It’s important to highlight that the ESU pricing structure is cumulative, meaning that organizations that decide to join the program in the second year will also be required to pay for the fees from the first year.
While Microsoft’s free support for the majority of Windows 10 editions has come to a close in 2025, Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 has continued to receive critical updates. This ESU program effectively offers a lifeline to organizations that are either unable or unwilling to migrate to Windows 11. However, it is vital to note that this ESU program does not apply to Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC, which has a different support schedule and remains supported until January 13, 2032.
Interestingly, organizations utilizing Microsoft’s cloud-based update services like Intune or Autopatch qualify for a 25 percent discount, which brings the Year 1 cost down to $45 per device. For all other organizations, however, the full price will still apply under Volume Licensing or through a Microsoft Cloud Solution Provider.
Despite Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to transition users to Windows 11, Windows 10 maintains a significant foothold in the market. Data from Statcounter shows that the operating system accounts for nearly 30 percent of the market share. In a survey conducted by Lansweeper in July, it was reported that approximately 16.9 percent of monitored devices were still running Windows 10. Migration rates to Windows 11 have significantly slowed, as organizations that were capable of transitioning have already made the shift.
Several factors contribute to the decision for many organizations to remain on Windows 10. One significant concern is the compatibility of specialist applications and hardware configurations. This is particularly pronounced within healthcare environments, where critical applications may not function properly on Windows 11. Additionally, Windows 11 features strict hardware requirements, including specific processor and Trusted Platform Module (TPM) compatibility rules, which disqualify many devices that could otherwise run the new operating system. Microsoft’s recent optimization initiatives aimed at enhancing performance for systems with 8 GB of RAM have not resolved these fundamental compatibility barriers.
It is advisable for organizations currently operating on Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 to initiate their migration strategy or to budget for the impending ESU costs before support concludes in January 2027. The cumulative pricing structure, alongside the annual cost doubling, necessitates early planning for organizations that are not in a position to transition to Windows 11 immediately. IT administrators should undertake a thorough evaluation of their existing hardware to determine whether it meets Windows 11’s stringent requirements. Concurrently, those organizations may need to assess whether ESU purchases are a more cost-effective short-term solution while longer-term infrastructure upgrades are being planned.
As the end-of-support date approaches, organizations are encouraged to recognize the importance of these upcoming decisions and to develop contingency plans that can address both immediate security needs and long-term operational strategies. This planning will ensure that they remain adequately equipped to handle the challenges of transitioning into a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
In summary, Microsoft’s announcement regarding the Extended Security Updates for Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 signals a critical juncture for organizations as they face the impending deadline for support. The decision to remain on Windows 10 or migrate to Windows 11 could have significant financial and operational implications, making it a pressing concern for IT leaders across various sectors.