Windows 10 LTSB (LTSC) will receive Extended Security Updates
Microsoft has confirmed in its Windows IT Pro Blog the timeline for the end of long-term support for Windows 10 releases from 2016 and Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for organizations that need more time to change.
End of support for 2026 products
In addition, Windows Server 2016 will also reach the end of support January 12, 2027. As a client release, that date marks the end of security updates and official support.
Microsoft recommends that customers migrate to the latest release of the Long Term Service Channel. For desktop computers and specialized devices, the company recommends upgrading to Windows 11 Enterprise LTSC 2024 on supported hardware, or to Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 if Windows 11 is not an option. Server customers are advised to plan to upgrade to Windows Server 2025.
Extended Program for Security Updates
Organizations that cannot complete their upgrades before the deadline will be offered Extended Security Updates as a temporary (not permanent) solution.
Similar to the original LTSB service model, the ESU system does not introduce new features or design changes. It continues to deliver important security updates for a limited time after the end of support.
The company notes that under this plan, technical support “limited to the use of ESU licenses, the installation of monthly ESU updates, and the handling of problems that may be caused by the update.”
Because Windows 10 Enterprise 2016 LTSBthe program will be available at second quarter of 2026 with Volume Licensing and Microsoft Cloud Solution Providers.
I the first year will cost $61 per devicefor a reduced price of $45 per computer for systems managed with Microsoft Intune or Windows Autopatch.
Fees double each successive year for up to three years, and licenses are cumulative, meaning organizations that sign up in the second year must also pay for the first year.
Because Windows IoT Enterprise 2016 LTSBThe Extended Security Updates program will available only to buildersand the price will be provided directly by the device manufacturers. The same accumulation and price escalation model applies.
Microsoft says Windows Server 2016 ESU pricing and availability details will be shared in the coming months.
Without realizing it, the Long Term Operations Branch (LTSB) terms used in 2016, but replaced by Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC), although both terms are often used interchangeably on official support pages.
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