Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) License Purchase

Overview

Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. After that date, Windows 10 devices will no longer receive monthly security updates unless they are covered under Extended Security Updates (ESU).

This service allows departments to request ESU licenses and activate them on eligible university-owned Windows 10 systems. The request form is automatically routed to IT Accounting for license purchase and billing to the department account. Once processed, IT Accounting will provide the Multiple Activation Key (MAK) needed to activate ESU protection on each licensed device.

This service ensures that devices which cannot yet migrate to Windows 11 remain secure, compliant, and supported during the extended support period.

Features and Benefits

  • Centralized License Request and Activation
    Departments can easily request and apply ESU licenses through a single streamlined process.

  • Extended Security Coverage
    Provides continued Microsoft-issued security updates for eligible Windows 10 devices beyond end of support.

  • Compliance and Risk Management
    Helps maintain alignment with OSU IT security standards and Microsoft licensing requirements.

  • Flexible Deployment Options
    ESU keys can be applied using:

    • Manual activation via command line

    • Group Policy (GPO) for domain-joined systems

    • Intune script for cloud-managed or hybrid devices

  • Deployment Support
    Cloud and Infrastructure Services can provide technical assistance, troubleshooting, and automation guidance as needed.

Who is this Service Offering Available to?

This service is available to:

  • University departments, colleges, and administrative units responsible for Windows 10 device management.

  • IT support personnel, faculty, and staff managing university-owned Windows 10 computers.

This service is not available for student-owned or personal devices.

Service Availability

Requests can be submitted 24/7 through the IT Service Portal.

Typical processing times:

  • License purchase and accounting review: 3–5 business days

  • Activation and deployment support: within 1–2 business days after licenses are received

Large or campus-wide activations may require coordination with Cloud and Infrastructure Services to plan deployment.

Fees or Costs Associated with the Service

Each ESU license costs $1 per device for the first year.
Departments must provide a valid department account number on the request form for billing.

Future-year renewals, if needed, will be processed through IT Accounting based on Microsoft’s annual ESU pricing.
There are no additional IT service fees for activation, deployment assistance, or support.