Microsoft Ends Support for Windows Server 2016 and Windows 10 2016 Versions: Upgrade Now

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Yash Shield
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Microsoft will stop all support for Windows Server 2016, Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016, and Windows 10 IoT Enterprise 2016 LTSB soon. No more security patches, bug fixes, or tech help after these dates. Windows 10 versions end October 13, 2026. Windows Server 2016 follows on January 12, 2027. The Microsoft Lifecycle page confirms: “After end of support, receive only Extended Security Updates if enrolled.”

These are LTSC/LTSB editions for stable, long-term use in servers and devices. Support spans 10 years from release. Patching ends with the last Patch Tuesday. Unpatched systems face rising attack risks. Hackers target known flaws in legacy OS.

As of February 26, 2026, no changes to timelines. Microsoft’s Tech Community blog urges migration. “Plan upgrades to Windows Server 2025 or LTSC 2024,”

Staying on old versions breaks compliance. New vulns go unpatched. Enterprises in finance, healthcare, and IoT face audits and breaches. Extended Security Updates (ESU) offer a bridge, but costs rise yearly.

End-of-Support Dates

ProductEnd DateFinal Patch
Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016Oct 13, 2026Oct 2026
Windows 10 IoT Enterprise 2016 LTSBOct 13, 2026Oct 2026
Windows Server 2016Jan 12, 2027Jan 2027

Upgrade Paths

Migrate to these for security.

  • Windows Server 2016 → Windows Server 2025
  • Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016 → Windows 11 Enterprise LTSC 2024 (if hardware supports) or Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021
  • Windows 10 IoT Enterprise 2016 LTSB → Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2024 or Windows 10 IoT LTSC 2021

ESU Details

Temporary security-only updates.

YearPricing (per device/year)Notes
1$USD (Intune discount available)Critical/Important patches only
2Double Year 1 (cumulative)Via Volume Licensing/CSP
3Double Year 2 (cumulative)IoT via OEMs

Action Steps

Secure your fleet today.

  • Inventory all 2016 instances now.
  • Test upgrades in labs.
  • Budget for ESU as stopgap.
  • Use tools like Windows Autopatch for managed devices.
  • Train IT on LTSC channels.

FAQ

When does Windows Server 2016 support end?

January 12, 2027.

What is ESU for these versions?

Security patches only, up to 3 years post-EOS. Pricing doubles yearly.

Can I stay on Windows 10 2016 forever?

No. Upgrade to LTSC 2024 or risk exploits.

How much does Year 1 ESU cost?

Per device; discounts for Intune. 

What if hardware blocks Windows 11?

Use Windows 10 LTSC 2021.

Yash

Yash Shield

I am a Business Analytics student with a strong interest in publishing well-researched and data-driven news articles. I focus on analyzing trends in business, finance, and technology to create clear, accurate, and engaging content for readers. I enjoy transforming complex data and information into simple, meaningful stories that help audiences understand current developments. With analytical thinking and attention to detail, I aim to deliver credible and insightful news that adds real value to readers.

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