Definition: Windows 7 ESU

(Windows 7 Extended Security Updates) Security updates for Windows 7. Windows 7 was given end-of-life in January 2020, but Windows 7 ESU can extend security updates for up to three years. Initially intended for large corporations that have relationships with Microsoft or Microsoft partners, the program was extended to small businesses. However, for individuals and mom and pop shops that do not have these affiliations, obtaining an ESU is exceedingly difficult to navigate. See Windows 7.

Microsoft would indeed benefit by eliminating Windows 7, because it then no longer has to support multiple versions of its OS. However, because it offers the ESU, it is planning dual maintenance for three more years, and the cost to Microsoft is the same no matter how many people purchase it. It seems peculiar individual users cannot easily obtain it.

Why Stay With Windows 7?
Windows 7 is a stable operating system without all the extras of Windows 10. Like all software used for a long time, people have become familiar with Windows 7 and are loathe to change. In addition, although Windows 10 is technically more stable, for most people, updating to Windows 10 does not give them any advantages in their day-to-day work. In addition, 32-bit versions of Windows 7 run legacy 16-bit Windows apps, and many of them are still running. It is almost impossible to purchase 32-bit versions of new Windows 10 laptops and almost as difficult for new desktop computers.

The Message Windows 7 Users Dreaded

On January 20, 2020, this message appeared full screen on every Windows 7 computer and continued to appear periodically if users clicked Remind Me Later.