Microsoft ends support for 2016 Windows versions

Microsoft is ending support for three Windows products released in 2016. The impending end can be postponed with Extended Security Updates (ESU) – which naturally come at a price.

Microsoft announced this in the Windows Release Health Message Center. A blog post in the Windows IT Pro Blog details this. According to the post, official support will end ten years after release for Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016 Windows 10 IoT Enterprise 2016 LTSB (both on October 13, 2026) and for Windows Server 2016 (on January 12, 2027). These are the dates of the last security updates that machines with these Windows versions will officially receive. “After that, these devices will no longer receive Windows security updates, non-security updates, bug fixes, technical support, or online technical content updates,” Microsoft writes. However, there is good news: those who need additional time can use the ESU program.

ESU: Prices not yet known for some

As part of ESU, interested parties can purchase monthly security updates from Microsoft for up to an additional three years. New features, quality improvements, or design changes are not included, nor is there any further technical support for the affected Windows versions. Microsoft still needs to determine prices for Windows Server 2016. Windows IoT Enterprise LTSB 2016 is exclusively available through the device's OEMs – who also determine price and availability.

ESU licenses for Windows 10 Enterprise 2016 LTSB will be available starting in the second quarter of 2026 for $61 per machine per year. Those who manage devices with Intune or Autopatch will receive a discounted price of $45. However, this doubles each year – so if you decide to equip machines with an ESU license only in the second year, you will still pay for the first year. Microsoft has not yet announced prices in euros.

Microsoft recommends that affected users update to Windows Server 2025, Windows 11 Enterprise LTSC 2024, or Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2024 to receive official support, including technical support, for longer.

Most IT managers will be familiar with the end of support for these Windows versions. The official end of support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, created a significant need for action. Microsoft also provided tips and advice.

(dmk)