Navigating the End of Windows 10 Support in Schools and how education settings can respond to Microsoft’s ESU restrictions.
- ycurrie
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
Context
In April, Microsoft published its Windows 10 End of Support Updates for Education blog, introducing the Extended Security Update (ESU) program. This appeared to be a cost-effective way for schools and trusts to extend the life of older devices without immediately investing in new hardware — a compelling option for education settings facing tight budgets.
At the time, we advised customers that ESU could be a potential route, pending final availability in the UK.
The Challenge
Following extensive engagement with licensing partners, we can now confirm that:
Microsoft’s current position is that ESUs are only available under enterprise-level licensing agreements in the UK.
This means individual schools and trusts are not eligible under current conditions.
While Microsoft may consider widening access later this year, there is no confirmed timeline or commitment — making it unsuitable as a reliable planning route.
Response & Recommendations
In line with ISO 27001 and Cyber Essentials, we are now advising customers to pursue the following paths:
1. Upgrade to Windows 11-Capable Devices
The most secure and future-proof strategy.
Where budgets allow, we recommend upgrading to supported hardware. We’re working with partners like Circle IT to provide schools with affordable refurbished machines, balancing cost with compliance.
2. Consider Windows 10 LTSC – Only in Limited, Emergency Cases
LTSC is not intended for general end-user environments, such as classrooms or staff offices. It is designed for use in specialist, low-interaction systems (e.g., medical devices or kiosks).
LTSC may be used temporarily to keep essential legacy devices operational in non-critical or low-usage scenarios while a proper transition plan is developed.
However, key limitations include:
🚫 No Microsoft Store (e.g., Minecraft, Flipgrid not supported)
🚫 No Microsoft Edge browser
🚫 No Teams desktop support after July 1st (web-only)
🚫 Limited software support (e.g., Adobe Creative Cloud not supported)
This makes LTSC unsuitable as a long-term or widespread solution for school environments.
3. Running Windows 10 Without Security Updates
This is strongly discouraged.
Unsupported systems present a significant cybersecurity risk, and are frequently targeted by attackers once updates end.
A Word From Us
“This situation — unclear options, shifting availability — is not how we want to operate, and not the standard we hold ourselves to. We’re committed to helping schools plan with confidence, even when the answers are slow to come.”
We are also actively exploring enterprise-level agreements that may allow us to bring ESU access to our customers. Updates will follow as soon as we have news to share.
Summary
Option Recommended Use Notes
Windows 11 Upgrade ✅ Primary path Secure, compliant. long-term
Windows 10 LTSC ⚠️ Emergency/temporary only Not for general use.
Continue Without Updates ❌ Not recommended Significant cybersecurity exposure.
Need help planning your next steps? Our team is here to support your school or trust.
Visit: www.cse-net.co.uk
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