Microsoft Expands Windows 10 ESU to 2016 LTSB With New Pricing Model

Microsoft has officially expanded its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program to cover additional Windows 10 versions, including long-term servicing releases. The move gives organizations more time to secure legacy systems that cannot transition immediately.

ESU rollout now includes Windows 10 Enterprise 2016 LTSB

Microsoft confirmed earlier this year that ESU coverage would extend to Long-Term Servicing Branch editions, specifically Windows 10 Enterprise 2016 LTSB. The program went live on April 1, 2026, offering continued access to critical security updates beyond the standard lifecycle.

Support for this version officially ends on October 13, 2026, making ESUs a temporary bridge for businesses still relying on older infrastructure.

Pricing model increases year over year

Microsoft has set the first-year ESU cost at $61 per device annually. Organizations that manage devices through Intune or Autopatch can reduce that cost to $45 per device.

The pricing model escalates quickly, with costs doubling each year. Companies entering the program in later years must also pay retroactively for missed coverage, which increases the total cost of delay.

ESUs available through multiple channels

Organizations can purchase ESUs through Volume Licensing or via the Microsoft Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) program. This approach allows flexibility depending on how companies manage licensing and deployments.

The program ensures continued delivery of critical security updates, even after official support ends.

Other affected products nearing the end of support

Windows 10 IoT Enterprise 2016 LTSB follows a similar timeline, with support ending in October 2026. Microsoft advises customers to contact OEM partners directly for ESU pricing in this segment.

Windows Server 2016 will reach the end of support in January 2027. Microsoft recommends upgrading to Windows Server 2025, although ESUs remain available as a fallback for organizations that need more time.

Microsoft pushes modern management tools

Alongside the ESU rollout, Microsoft continues to steer organizations toward modern management solutions. Systems enrolled in Autopatch will receive security updates automatically, reducing manual overhead.

At the same time, Microsoft increasingly positions Intune as the preferred management platform, gradually shifting focus away from traditional tools like SCCM.

Via Neowin