Answers
When does Windows 10 reach end-of-support?
Short answer
October 14, 2025. After that date, Microsoft no longer ships free security updates. Paid Extended Security Updates (ESU) are available for up to three years (consumer ESU runs $30/year per device).
The longer explanation
After 14 October 2025 Windows 10 keeps booting and running, but stops receiving free monthly security patches, browser vendors begin phasing out support, and third-party antivirus signatures gradually drop the platform. The realistic options are a free upgrade to Windows 11 (on eligible hardware) or paid ESU.
Consumer ESU: $30/year per device, purchased directly from Microsoft, valid through October 2026. Commercial ESU is priced per device and doubles each renewal year (year 1 $61, year 2 $122, year 3 $244). Compare the multi-year ESU total against the price of a Windows 11 Pro licence — for most SMBs the licence wins after year one.
People also ask
Is buying an OEM key online legal?
Yes in most countries — Microsoft sells OEM keys to system builders, and reselling unused, unbound OEM keys is permitted in the EU under the UsedSoft v Oracle ruling (CJEU C-128/11). In the US, OEM keys are legal once detached from the original system as part of a single transfer.
What's the difference between Office 2024 and Microsoft 365?
Office 2024 is a one-time purchase that locks the apps at their October 2024 version forever. Microsoft 365 is a subscription that includes the same apps plus 1 TB OneDrive, monthly feature updates, Outlook with email hosting (Business plans) and Copilot eligibility — but stops working when you cancel.
How many PCs can I install one Office licence on?
Perpetual Office (2021/2024 Home & Student / Home & Business / Pro) activates on exactly one PC and is transferable to a new PC if you uninstall on the old one. Microsoft 365 Personal allows install on unlimited devices but sign-in on five at a time; Family allows the same for six users.
How do I fix Windows activation error 0x80072F8F?
0x80072F8F is a TLS clock mismatch — Windows can't validate Microsoft's activation server certificate because the system date is wrong. Open Settings → Time & Language → Date & Time, enable 'Set time automatically' and 'Set time zone automatically', then re-run activation.
Why trust this answer
Written by licensing analysts who handle Microsoft Open, CSP and EU-resale transactions every day. We never paraphrase Microsoft contracts second-hand — every claim links to the actual EULA section, Microsoft Learn article, or court ruling it comes from. Found a discrepancy? Email research@licensevault.net and we will update the page within 48 hours.
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