End of Support for Windows 10 and Server 2016: What Businesses Demand to Know

Microsoft is phasing out support for several Windows products released in 2016, posing potential security and operational challenges for organizations still utilizing these systems. Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016 and Windows 10 IoT Enterprise 2016 LTSB reached their end of support on October 13, 2026, while Windows Server 2016 will follow on January 12, 2027. This means these versions will no longer receive crucial security updates, leaving them vulnerable to emerging threats.

What Does End of Support Mean?

Once a Windows product reaches its end of support, Microsoft ceases to provide security updates, non-security updates, bug fixes, technical support, and online documentation updates. Continuing to operate these systems after the end-of-support date significantly increases the risk of security breaches and system instability. Microsoft provides further details on known issues and servicing status.

Extended Security Updates (ESU) – A Temporary Solution

For organizations unable to immediately upgrade, Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates (ESU). This paid program provides critical and crucial security updates for a limited time, allowing continued operation beyond the official end-of-support date. Microsoft details the ESU program, emphasizing that it focuses solely on security and does not include new features or quality fixes.

ESU Pricing

ESU licenses are available for up to three years after the end of support. Pricing for Windows 10 LTSB 2016 and Windows 10 IoT Enterprise 2016 LTSB starts at $61 per device for the first year, with a discount to $45 per device for systems managed through Microsoft Intune or Windows Autopatch. The cost doubles annually, and organizations must purchase cumulative licenses for each year of coverage. Pricing for Windows Server 2016 ESU has not yet been publicly announced.

The Preferred Path: Upgrading to Modern Versions

Microsoft strongly recommends upgrading to the latest Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) releases as the most sustainable long-term solution. Recommended options include Windows Server 2025, Windows 11 Enterprise LTSC 2024, and Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2024. These newer versions offer enhanced security features, improved performance, and ongoing support.

Recent Policy Changes in the EEA

In response to concerns raised by consumer advocacy groups like Euroconsumers, Microsoft modified its ESU policy within the European Economic Area (EEA). Windows 10 users in the EEA were granted access to ESU until October 14, 2026, without payment and without requiring cloud account backups. This change addressed concerns about tying security updates to paid subscriptions or cloud service usage.

Key Takeaways

• Windows 10 LTSB 2016 and Windows Server 2016 are reaching their end of support in 2026 and 2027, respectively.
• Organizations should plan for upgrades to supported versions or consider purchasing Extended Security Updates (ESU).
• ESU provides temporary security updates but does not include new features or quality improvements.
• Microsoft recommends upgrading to the latest LTSC releases for long-term security and support.
• Policy changes have been made in the EEA to ensure access to security updates without requiring payment or cloud account dependencies.