Windows Server 2016 and Windows 10/IoT Enterprise 2016 LTSB reach end of support on Oct 13, 2026 (Windows 10 variants) and Jan 12, 2027 (Server). After EOS devices stop receiving updates; ESU purchases available up to three years. Upgrade to current LTSC releases.
Three Microsoft products from 2016 are nearing end of support in late 2026 and early 2027. Organizations must plan upgrades or purchase Extended Security Updates to maintain protection.
Main feature/change and impact
Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016 and Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSB 2016 reach end of support on October 13, 2026. Windows Server 2016 reaches end of support on January 12, 2027. After those dates, devices will not receive security updates or technical content updates. Unpatched systems will face increased security and compliance risk without mitigations.Practical implications
If you cannot upgrade, purchase ESUs for up to three years as a temporary bridge. ESUs deliver only critical and important security updates, not feature or quality fixes. ESU pricing varies by product and channel, and costs escalate each year for LTSB devices. Plan device inventories, test compatibility, and budget for migration to LTSC or newer server releases.“The ESU program is not intended to be a long-term solution but rather a temporary bridge.”Organizations should inventory affected devices and set target upgrade dates now. Prioritize special-purpose and IoT devices that cannot meet new hardware requirements. Engage OEMs, volume licensing teams, or CSPs to procure ESUs if needed. Plan migration to supported releases such as Windows Server 2025 and Windows 11 Enterprise LTSC 2024.
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