Windows 10 Receives Final Security Update as Extended Security Update Program Enters New Phase
rome,Italy – November 14,2024 – Microsoft has released KB5068781,the first Patch Tuesday update for Windows 10 following the official end of support for the operating system on October 14,2025. This update marks a critical juncture for the 41.71% of Windows PCs still running Windows 10,as continued security relies on enrollment in the Extended Security Update (ESU) program.
The ESU program allows businesses and individuals too purchase continued security updates for Windows 10 for a limited time after the end of its standard support lifecycle. Currently, the program costs 31.99 euros per year. A limited number of users in Europe may qualify for free ESU access by utilizing their Microsoft account during authentication. However, some users are reporting access problems with the ESU program, potentially hindering their ability to maintain a secure system.
Introduced to provide ongoing protection after an operating system’s natural lifespan, the ESU program is a paid service offered by software vendors to address evolving security threats. For Windows 10, Microsoft is offering one year of ESU at a time. StatCounter data indicates that a substantial portion of the desktop PC market remains reliant on Windows 10,making continued security updates vital to mitigate potential vulnerabilities and cyberattacks.
