Over the last week, Microsoft has changed its position on Windows Security Updates – but the recommended action is still to update to Windows 11 wherever possible.
The Update
Microsoft has offered a free subscription to Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) for all consumers (not commercial organisations) in the European Economic Area (EEA). Since the UK is not a part of the EEA this does not apply to UK consumers (or businesses).
However, commercial organisations anywhere can buy ESU for £58 per device in year 1 and then £116 and £233 in years 2 and 3.
The Consequences
If your device is capable of being updated to Windows 11, it is cheaper to update to Windows 11 rather than subscribe to ESU. Plus, you will be running a superior operating system (Microsoft Windows 11 v Windows 10 comparison page).
If your device cannot be updated because of either hardware limitations or old software that is incompatible with Windows 11, then ESU may offer you a short-term fix.
If you wish to enrol any devices in ESU, please contact your Wessex IT account manager as soon as possible.
[Note: for EEA consumers, ESU covers up to 10 devices – this is NOT the case for commercial organisations. Pricing is per device.]