Microsoft is offering a temporary reprieve for organizations still running Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016, Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSB 2016, and Windows Server 2016 through Extended Security Updates (ESU). These programs will provide continued security patches after the operating systems reach their official end of support dates, but at a significant cost. The move comes as these older versions of Windows approach their end-of-life, leaving systems vulnerable to emerging security threats without ongoing updates.
The clock is ticking for these platforms. Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016 and Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSB 2016 will reach end of support on October 13, 2026, while Windows Server 2016 will follow on January 12, 2027. After these dates, Microsoft will no longer deliver security updates or technical assistance for these systems, increasing the risk of exploitation. The availability of ESU provides a pathway for organizations needing more time to migrate to newer versions of Windows.
Here’s a breakdown of the key dates:
- Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016: October 13, 2026
- Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSB 2016: October 13, 2026
- Windows Server 2016: January 12, 2027
ESU Pricing: A Doubling Annual Cost
For Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016, the ESU program will be available starting in the second quarter of 2026 through volume licensing channels and Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) partners. The initial cost is $61 per device for the first year, but this price will double annually. A discount is available for devices managed by Microsoft Intune or Windows Autopatch, bringing the first-year cost down to $45 per device. However, the cumulative nature of the pricing means that over three years, the cost per device could exceed $400.
Pricing for Windows Server 2016 ESU has not yet been finalized. For the IoT edition, Microsoft directs customers to their Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).
Navigating ESU in Europe: Avoiding Confusion
European users should be aware of a separate, free ESU offering for Windows 10 22H2. This consumer ESU, available in the European Economic Area since September 2025 due to pressure from the Digital Markets Act and Euroconsumers, provides only one year of updates (until October 2026) and applies to consumer editions of Windows. The programs announced for enterprise editions (LTSB 2016, Server 2016) are commercially priced globally, with no free options available regardless of geographic location.
Migration is the Long-Term Solution
Microsoft strongly recommends migrating to newer operating systems, including Windows Server 2025, Windows 11 Enterprise LTSC 2024, or, as an alternative, Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021. The company is clear that ESU is intended as a temporary measure, a “sursis” as described in the official announcement, and not a long-term strategy for maintaining security.
The availability of ESU offers a short-term solution for organizations facing challenges in migrating legacy systems. However, the escalating costs and limited timeframe underscore the importance of proactive planning and a timely transition to supported platforms.
What comes next for organizations relying on these older Windows versions will depend on their individual migration timelines and risk tolerance. Continued monitoring of Microsoft’s guidance and careful assessment of the total cost of ownership – including ESU fees – will be crucial in the coming months.
Have questions about the Windows ESU program? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
