Microsoft has started offering Windows 10 Extended Security Updates for 1 to 3 years for nonprofits. You may jump to that section by clicking here.
On October 14, 2025, some Microsoft products will reach their "End of Support." After this date, Microsoft will no longer provide updates to keep the product running smoothly and securely. They will also stop offering technical support if you run into problems. See Microsoft’s full list of retiring products here
Two important products on this list are Office 2016 and 2019. However, there is also another very popular product that is retiring - Windows 10.
Why is this important?
Windows 10 came out in July 2015 and has since been the default OS on many of our devices. But on October 14, 2025, it will unfortunately reach its End of Support. By that time, while devices running on Windows 10 will remain operable, they will also be significantly vulnerable to cyberattacks.
The UK's National Cyber Security Centre summed it up best in their Device Security Guide. Once products are no longer updated, new vulnerabilities will soon be discovered that can be exploited.
Besides the security risks, you might also notice that your computer starts to have more problems, like crashing or running slowly. This is because updates also include optimization patches, ensuring your device keeps operating at a smoothly and efficiently. Without these patches, you are more likely to experience disruption in your work as well due to performance issues.
What should I do?
If you are still using Windows 10, we strongly recommend you upgrade to Windows 11. Here are some options for eligible nonprofits through TechSoup:
Windows 11 Pro Full
This is the complete, standalone version of Windows 11 Pro. You should use this license if you meet any one (1) of these scenarios:
- You are using a non-Pro version of Windows (like Windows Home).
- You are using an unlicensed version of Windows.
- Your computer does not have an operating system installed.
- Your computer uses a non-Windows OS (like Ubuntu).
You can get up to 50 donated licenses here and also explore a separate special offer for devices used in nonprofit computer labs are also available here. While both licenses are limited to 50 max, this allocation will refresh after 2 years.
If you need more than 50 licenses immediately, discounted versions are available and you can purchase as much as you need without maximum limits, here.
Windows 11 Pro Upgrade
This license is used to upgrade an older Pro version of Windows to the latest available version. Only choose this option if your computers already have a Pro version of Windows installed.
Eligible organizations can get Windows OS Upgrades here.
You may also explore getting Windows upgrades as part of your discounted Microsoft 365 Business Premium subscription for nonprofits through Microsoft for Nonprofits.
What if we cannot upgrade to Windows 11?
There may be certain cases where your nonprofit is not able to upgrade to Windows 11 yet. These may include:
- Need for internal budget approvals or missed procurement internal windows
- IT to determine compatibility of Windows 11 with existing hardware or custom apps
In such cases where you have no option but to stay in Windows 10, Microsoft offers the option to purchase Extended Security Updates (ESU) for an additional 1, 2 or 3 years.
Please note, ESUs are NOT Windows 10 licenses. Instead, it’s more like an add-on that enables existing Windows 10 licenses to continue receiving security updates after its end of support date (October 14, 2025). It will play a critical role in preventing cyberattacks, particularly in cases where nonprofits are not yet able to upgrade to Windows 11.
You can learn more about ESUs here
How to purchase ESUs?
Eligible nonprofits may purchase ESUs through TechSoup here.
If you wish to extend your ESU, you will need to purchase a separate product for the 2nd and 3rd year of coverage. You may see these below:
Upgrading is inevitable
As a final note, it’s worth noting that ESUs can only delay the inevitable since Microsoft will only offer ESUs up to 3 years maximum (or up to October 31, 2028). The intention of ESU is mainly to give your team more time to assess when and how you will eventually upgrade your Windows OS licenses to the latest version.
Need help exploring options?
Don’t hesitate to contact us at customerservice@techsoup.asia.