Understanding Windows 7 ESU – Windows 7 Extended Support Updates

As of 14^th January 2020, Microsoft no longer supports Windows 7 with routine security updates and will not patch or resolve breaches as part of their service. This means that if you continue using Windows 7, your data and your business are now at risk!

We understand that that there’ll be many of you who either don’t have the option to upgrade to Windows 10 or, quite simple, just don’t want to. This could be for a variety of reasons including…

• You may be concerned about compatibility issues with a piece of legacy equipment or software you use within your business. If you find yourself in this position, we are here to help.
• You may be particularly comfortable with Windows 7 and don’t want to learn how to use a new system.

Either way, if you or your business own legitimate Windows 7 Enterprise and Windows 7 Professional Licenses, all is not lost! Thankfully, Microsoft have released something called Windows 7 ESU Licenses, or ‘Extended Security Updates’ that will help keep your Windows 7 systems secure and up to date for the next three years.

As a certified Microsoft Partner, we can help you purchase ESU if you want to remain on Windows 7. But if you’re still a bit confused, we’ve put together a handy FAQ to answer any questions you may have…

What are Microsoft Windows 7 Extended Security Updates?

Windows 7 ESU are security updates for ‘critical and important’ security issues that have been highlighted by the Microsoft Security Response Centre (MSRC). When you purchase Windows Extended Security Update Licenses, you are given a “multiple activation key” (MAK) that will work with a Key Management Service (KMS). This key is used to update the Windows 7 Licence and continue security patches. A Windows 7 ESU Licence does not include bug fixes, system updates or assistance from Microsoft Support.

These updates are available for a maximum of three years after 14^th January 2020. If you have not purchased ESU after the deadline and continue using Windows 7, your computer will be at risk of security breaches.

Am I eligible for a Windows 7 Extended Security Update Licence?

ESU are available for users who have a legitimate Windows 7 Professional or Windows 7 Enterprise. Additionally, users who have Windows 7 for Education (EDU) can also purchase Windows 7 ESU.

Are Windows 7 ESU available now?

Yes, ESU has been available to purchase since 1^stApril 2019 in the Volume Licensing Service Center (VLSC) and since 2^nd December 2019 from Cloud Solution Providers (CSPs).

Is there a deadline to purchase ESU for Windows 7?

You will be able to purchase ESU at any time within three years beyond the 14^th January 2020 deadline. It is advised to purchase these as soon as possible as these updates are considered cumulative, meaning that if you purchase ESU in the second or third year, you will be paying for preceding years as well.

How do I buy Windows 7 ESU Licenses?

That’s easy. Just get in touch and a member of our team will be happy to help. As a certified Microsoft Partner, ESU are available through E2E. No matter what size your organisation is, we are here to help keep your business safe from risk.

How often will I have to renew my Windows 7 ESU?

Once you’ve purchased a Windows 7 ESU Licence, you will have to renew it annually. At E2E, we can help you plan for these renewals and keep you updated with any changes you should be aware of.

Get Windows 7 ESU today

It’s important to remember that a Windows 7 Extended Security Update License provides important patches and fixes but is not an alternative to the Windows 10 OS.

At E2E we’re here to help. If you have any further questions or would like to purchase Windows 7 ESU today, give us a call or get in touch via our contact page and a member of our team will be happy to help.