As of today, non-security support for Windows 10 has ended, but customers enrolled in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program will still receive crucial security updates for at least another year. Microsoft has outlined the implications for Microsoft Defender during this period.
Defender Support for Legacy Systems
Microsoft Defender will continue to offer detection and protection for Windows 10 and other legacy systems in the ESU program. This support allows the systems to remain safeguarded to the extent possible, although they might not receive the latest features found in more current systems.
- Microsoft Defender extends support for Windows 10 ESU customers until at least 2024-10-13.
- Security intelligence updates for Microsoft Defender Antivirus are assured until 2028-10-01.
- The ESU program provides critical security updates for legacy systems.
Limits of Legacy System Security
Microsoft has cautioned that security solutions on legacy systems like Windows 10 are inherently less robust. Microsoft Defender Antivirus will still receive security intelligence updates for built-in protection through October 2028. However, Microsoft emphasizes that relying solely on Defender Antivirus is not sufficient for comprehensive risk mitigation.
The company recommends that users either enroll in the ESU program or upgrade to Windows 11 to ensure full protection. This advice underscores the limitations of legacy security measures and the importance of keeping systems up to date with current standards.
