Windows 10 is set to reach its end of life on October 14, 2025. For users with older computers, such as my secondary laptop that isn’t compatible with Windows 11, this creates a challenge. Instead of spending $30 for a year of security updates, I found a cost-effective solution that allows me to keep my device secure until 2030.
The Windows 10 Edition That Lasts Until 2030
As the official support deadline approaches, users face several possibilities. The most common solution is to upgrade to Windows 11, but many older systems, including mine, display a warning stating “This PC can’t run Windows 11”. Although it’s technically possible to install Windows 11 using a workaround, the performance may not be optimal.
Another option is to subscribe to Microsoft’s $30/year Extended Security Updates (ESU). Alternatively, services like 0Patch offer Windows 10 security updates until 2030 for around $25 annually.
However, there’s a relatively unknown yet promising option from Microsoft itself: the Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC (Long-Term Servicing Channel).This specialized version is designed for businesses with critical applications, such as ATMs or hospital equipment, where consistent operation is essential. LTSC is essentially a stripped-down version of Windows 10, receiving only security updates and no feature changes.
The LTSC 2021 version provides security patches until January 2027, and its IoT counterpart extends support until 2032. Its significant advantage is that it’s free from unnecessary pre-installed software, ensuring a cleaner and more efficient user experience, with apps like Xbox Game Bar and Microsoft Store omitted (though they can be added manually later).
To activate LTSC, users must acquire a genuine license key, which can often be found for $20 to $30 from reputable online resellers. While primarily targeted at enterprises, personal users can successfully activate their copies through legitimate third-party sellers.
It’s important to note that Microsoft recommends clean installations for LTSC and does not officially support in-place upgrades. Modifying the Windows Registry carries inherent risks, which could potentially disrupt your system’s functionality. While this method worked for me, a full backup is essential before proceeding.
How I Upgraded to LTSC Without a Clean Install
Although Microsoft advocates for clean installations, it is possible to upgrade from Windows 10 Pro to LTSC while retaining your files and applications by adjusting the Windows Registry.
Begin by creating a comprehensive backup of your PC. Utilize the built-in Windows Backup utility or consider third-party software like Macrium Reflect. Additionally, establish a restore point to allow for a rollback if necessary during the registry editing process.
Next, download the LTSC 2021 ISO from Microsoft’s evaluation center or through your licensing portal. Ensure that the language of the ISO matches your current Windows installation. To confirm your system’s language, execute dism /online /get-intl in an elevated Windows Terminal. Note the System locale entry; I use en-US, indicating the need for the English (United States) version of the ISO.
To proceed with the in-place upgrade, access the Registry Editor by pressing Win + R, typing regedit, and hitting OK.
In the Registry Editor, navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion and update the following values:
- EditionID: Change from Professional to EnterpriseS
- ProductName: Change from Windows 10 Pro to Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC
- ReleaseID: Modify from 22H2 to 21H2, as the LTSC is based on Windows 10 21H1.
- CurrentBuild: Set it to 1904
- CurrentBuildNumber: Also set it to 1904
After adjusting these values, close the Registry Editor. Next, mount the ISO file by double-clicking it and launch the installation by running setup.exe. During installation, select the option to keep personal files and applications, then follow the provided instructions. The upgrade process will typically take about an hour and may involve several restarts.
After successfully completing the upgrade, activate your Windows 10 copy through the Settings app. While a clean install option is available, this in-place upgrade method is particularly valuable for users wishing to maintain their existing applications and files.
LTSC Isn’t Perfect (But Still Worth It)
Every solution has its drawbacks, and LTSC is no exception. Certain modern applications may refuse to install on older builds, including the latest releases of Adobe’s Creative Cloud and Microsoft Teams.
Users are also limited to the features available in 2021, with potential gaming compatibility issues. While older game titles tend to run smoothly, newer releases might present challenges. Due to its characteristics, LTSC is ideally suited for a secondary computer that primarily handles tasks such as email, browsing, office work, and legacy games.
My secondary laptop is perfect for these functions. It doesn’t require the latest updates from Microsoft, instead focusing on reliable performance for an extended period without the need for hardware upgrades or subscription fees.
This plan allows me to use my Windows 10 system comfortably beyond 2025. I prioritize reliability over cutting-edge features, and LTSC offers the necessary security assurances for a machine that’s critical to my everyday tasks.
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