Microsoft announces new ESU programs for more versions of Windows

Windows 10 entered the Extended Security Update (ESU) program after it reached end of support in October 2025. Under this program, users can continue to leverage the OS while receiving security updates. Now, Microsoft has announced new ESU programs for some other, older versions of Windows as well.

For those unaware, three more SKUs of Windows are reaching end of support within the next few months. But before we go into further details, keep in mind that Long-Term Servicing Branch (LTSB), referenced below, is the old name for Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC), and can be used interchangeably. Without further ado, here are the Windows SKU reaching end of support:

• Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016: October 13, 2026
• Windows 10 IoT Enterprise 2016 LTSB: October 13, 2026
• Windows Server 2016: January 12, 2027

Following the aforementioned dates, these versions will no longer receive monthly quality updates, security updates, or technical support. However, organizations do have the option to purchase ESUs to continue receiving security updates.

Windows 10 Enterprise 2016 LTSB customers are encouraged to migrate to the latest LTSC release for Windows 10 or Windows 11. After October 13, organizations who don't do so will be able to purchase up to three years of ESUs. Pricing will start at $61/device/year, but will be discounted to $45/device/year for machines managed via Intune or Autopatch. This price will double every year, and it's worth noting that if you purchase ESU in the second year, you'll also need to pay for the cost of the first year. Microsoft justifies this by claiming that ESUs are cumulative so even if you didn't opt in the first year, you'll still be receiving those updates in the second year.

Next, we have Windows 10 IoT Enterprise 2016 LTSB, who should also migrate to the latest IoT LTSC release for Windows 10 or Windows 11. If that is not possible, reach out to IoT OEMs to find out pricing and availability details of ESU and enroll in it.

Finally, Windows Server 2016 customers should consider upgrading to Windows Server 2025, but again, the ESU option will be available for them too. Pricing and availability details are yet to come.

Overall, the recommendation is to upgrade to a more modern SKU. Although the ESU program does offer security updates that are quite significant, it does not flight new features and technical support is very limited too.

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Posted Saturday 21 February 2026 at 5:58 pm AEST (my time).

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