check before: 2025-10-14
Product:
Windows, Windows 365
Platform:
Online, Windows Desktop, World tenant
Status:
Change type:
Admin impact
Links:
Details:
Now that support for Windows 10 has officially ended, it is important that organizations with Windows 10 devices stay as protected as possible through the Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. A new guide for Windows 10 ESU customers is now available, offering details on how to find, activate, and verify licenses on devices and endpoints.
When will this happen:
Windows 10 reached end of support on October 14, 2025. To continue receiving monthly security updates, Windows 10 devices need to be activated with Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) licenses before the November 2025 Windows security update.
Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
Created:
2025-11-05
updated:
2025-11-05
Task Type
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Docu to Check
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MS Preperations
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MS Urgency
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MS workload name
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summary for non-techies**
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Direct effects for Operations**
Security Vulnerabilities
Without proper activation of ESU licenses, Windows 10 devices will not receive critical security updates, exposing the organization to potential cyber threats and vulnerabilities.
- roles: IT Administrator, Security Officer
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/windows/whats-new/enable-extended-security-updates, https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/windows-itpro-blog/preparing-commercial-windows-10-devices-for-esus/4465689
Compliance Issues
Failure to activate ESU licenses may lead to non-compliance with industry regulations that require up-to-date security measures, resulting in potential legal and financial penalties.
- roles: Compliance Officer, IT Manager
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/windows/whats-new/enable-extended-security-updates, https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/windows-itpro-blog/preparing-commercial-windows-10-devices-for-esus/4465689
User Experience Degradation
Users may experience system instability and performance issues due to unpatched vulnerabilities, leading to decreased productivity and user dissatisfaction.
- roles: End User, Help Desk Support
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/windows/whats-new/enable-extended-security-updates, https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/windows-itpro-blog/preparing-commercial-windows-10-devices-for-esus/4465689
Configutation Options**
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Opportunities**
Streamlined License Management
Implement a centralized license management system to track and manage ESU licenses across all Windows 10 devices, ensuring compliance and reducing administrative overhead.
- next-steps: Research and select a license management tool that integrates with existing IT systems. Train staff on its use and establish regular audits for compliance.
- roles: IT Administrators, Compliance Officers, Finance Managers
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/windows/whats-new/enable-extended-security-updates, https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/windows-itpro-blog/preparing-commercial-windows-10-devices-for-esus/4465689
Automated Activation Processes
Develop scripts or use automation tools to streamline the activation of ESU licenses on multiple devices, reducing manual effort and potential errors during the activation process.
- next-steps: Identify suitable automation tools (e.g., PowerShell scripts) and create a plan for implementation. Test the automation on a small scale before a full rollout.
- roles: IT Administrators, System Engineers, Help Desk Staff
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/windows/whats-new/enable-extended-security-updates, https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/windows-itpro-blog/preparing-commercial-windows-10-devices-for-esus/4465689
User Training and Awareness
Conduct training sessions for users on the importance of ESU and security updates, emphasizing best practices for maintaining device security and compliance.
- next-steps: Develop training materials and schedule sessions. Gather feedback from users to improve future training initiatives.
- roles: IT Trainers, HR Managers, End Users
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/windows/whats-new/enable-extended-security-updates, https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/windows-itpro-blog/preparing-commercial-windows-10-devices-for-esus/4465689
Potentional Risks**
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IT Security**
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explanation for non-techies**
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** AI generated content. This information must be reviewed before use.
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Last updated 4 weeks ago ago
