The End of Windows 10 Support Explained
Microsoft has a set plan for how long it supports its software. For Windows 10, there was a time when they offered new features and bug fixes, along with security updates. This is called the “mainstream support” phase. It ended in May 2020. Now, there’s an “extended support” phase where you only get security updates. This extended support for Windows 10 Home and Pro ends in October 2025.
This is important because after October 2025, Microsoft won’t release security updates for these versions of Windows 10 anymore. This means your computer could be at risk from hackers who try to exploit weaknesses in the software. These weaknesses, called vulnerabilities, can let hackers steal your information, install harmful programs, or take control of your computer.
Paid Security Updates from Microsoft
Although free security updates for Windows 10 Home and Pro will end, Microsoft does offer a paid option called Extended Security Updates (ESU). This program lets businesses keep getting critical security updates for a limited time after the official end of support. However, ESU can be expensive, with yearly fees starting at around $50 per device. For companies with a lot of Windows 10 computers, this can add up quickly.
0patch: A Different Security Option
Luckily, there are other choices besides Microsoft’s ESU program. Security companies like 0patch offer solutions to fill the gap left when Microsoft stops supporting an operating system.
0patch uses a new way of fixing security problems called “micropatching.” Instead of giving you big updates with many fixes, they deliver small patches for just the specific vulnerabilities that need attention. This has several advantages:
- Less chance of problems: Micropatches are smaller than traditional updates, so they’re less likely to cause new issues or make your computer unstable.
- Faster updates: Micropatches are small, so they can be delivered and installed quickly, with less downtime for your computer.
- Easier to manage: Micropatches are targeted, so you don’t have to deal with update fatigue from getting lots of big updates all the time.
Saving Money with 0patch
One of the biggest benefits of using 0patch instead of Microsoft’s ESU program is the cost. Individual subscriptions from 0patch are much cheaper than the yearly fees for ESU. While prices can vary, estimates show that 0patch subscriptions can be as low as $25 per device, compared to Microsoft’s $50 annual fee.
By understanding your choices, you can make an informed decision to keep your Windows 10 system safe and stable even after the end of official Windows 10 support. Whether you opt for Microsoft's ESU or a third-party solution like 0patch, ensuring continued security updates is crucial for protecting against vulnerabilities and maintaining system integrity.
