In October, Microsoft (MS), which announced the end of technical support for Windows 10, will provide the 'Extended Security Updates (ESU)' that were previously offered for a fee to corporations, now conditionally for free to general users.
MS stated through its official blog on the 26th that it plans to offer free ESU for the next year for general users. The intention is to support individual users who need to continue using Windows 10 to maintain 'minimum security.' The ESU has previously been provided for a fee primarily to corporations and public agencies.
Earlier, MS had indicated that it would only provide technical support for Windows 10 until October 14. Concerns arose regarding potential vulnerabilities that could be exploited by hacking attacks due to the lack of security updates, which could result in damage to general users.
Although ESU, which can supplement this, will be provided to general users until next year, not everyone will have free access. The Windows in use must be logged into a Microsoft account (MSA). Windows 10 users can receive the Extended Security Updates for free without a separate application process by logging into their Microsoft account and activating the Windows backup feature.
There will be no changes for organizations, such as corporations, schools, and government agencies, that have previously used paid ESU. By subscribing to the paid ESU program, they can receive security patches for up to three years.
According to market research firm StatCounter, as of last month, Windows 10 held a 53.9% share among Windows-based desktops globally, while Windows 11 held 43.2%, indicating that Windows 10 is still highly prevalent. MS noted that this provision of ESU for general users aims to 'help users buy time to transition to new PCs or Windows 11.'