If you’re one of the many people still using Windows 10, you’ve probably heard that Microsoft is ending support on October 14, 2025. After that date, you won’t receive any more security patches or bug fixes, unless you upgrade to Windows 11 or… pay up.
As of this month, Microsoft has officially announced extended support pricing for Windows 10, and yes, regular home users can buy it straight from the Microsoft Store.
Here’s what you need to know.
How Much Does Extended Support Cost?
Microsoft will offer Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for Windows 10 users who want to keep their current systems going safely after October 2025.
- Windows 10 Home: ~$30 for the first year
- Windows 10 Pro: ~$60 for the first year
But here’s the catch:
- The price increases each year (just like it did for Windows 7)
- You’ll have to purchase updates yearly, and it only covers one device
Exact future pricing hasn’t been confirmed yet, but expect the second and third years to be more expensive.
Why Is This a Big Deal?
This is the first time Microsoft has made extended updates available to everyday consumers, not just enterprise customers. That means if your system can’t run Windows 11 (and there are a LOT of those), you can buy yourself some time without risking security threats.
For small businesses and solo users who rely on older machines, this is a huge help.
Should You Buy Extended Support or Upgrade?
Here’s where it gets tricky.
You might want to buy ESUs if:
- Your computer isn’t compatible with Windows 11
- You’re not ready to replace your machine
- You want a little more time to plan
You might want to upgrade if:
- Your PC can run Windows 11 with a few tweaks (we can help check!)
- You want the newest features and performance improvements
- You don’t want to pay Microsoft every year just to stay protected
Either way, we can walk you through your options.
How Little Dog Tech Can Help
If you’re not sure where you stand, we’ll:
- Check if your current machine is compatible with Windows 11
- Help you enable TPM or Secure Boot if they’re off
- Assist with buying and installing Extended Support if you want to keep Windows 10
- Set you up with a refurbished computer that’s already Windows 11-ready
There’s no pressure, just real answers and the help you need to make a smart move. Windows 10 might be winding down, but you’ve still got options. And we’re here to help you figure out which one makes the most sense for you. Visit us in store or reach out at littledogtech.com!