According to ZDNet, Microsoft has confirmed that Windows 10 users enrolled in the Extended Security Updates program are seeing false “end of support” warnings despite paying for continued security protection. The bug appeared after installing the KB5066791 Windows update from October 14, 2025, which was the final official security update before extended support began. Affected versions include Windows 10 22H2 Pro, Education, Enterprise editions, plus Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 and Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021. Microsoft calls it a display issue only, confirming that machines with valid ESU licenses will continue receiving security updates as promised. The company has pushed a cloud configuration update as a workaround, primarily targeting business users, with a permanent fix coming in a future Windows update.
Why this support confusion matters
Here’s the thing about these kinds of bugs – they create unnecessary panic. People and businesses who’ve paid $30 or used Microsoft Rewards points for extended security updates are getting mixed messages from their own operating system. And when we’re talking about security updates, that’s not something you want to be ambiguous about. Imagine being a small business owner who paid for extended support only to see warnings that your system is no longer protected. That’s the kind of thing that makes people question whether they made the right choice sticking with Windows 10.
The bigger Windows 10 migration problem
This bug highlights a much larger issue: Microsoft is struggling with the Windows 10 sunset. Millions of devices simply can’t upgrade to Windows 11 due to hardware requirements, and many businesses have legacy software that won’t run on newer systems. So what happens? They’re forced into these extended support programs, which frankly feel like a band-aid solution. The fact that even the paid support program is showing buggy warnings doesn’t inspire confidence. For industrial and manufacturing environments where stability is everything, this kind of uncertainty is particularly problematic. That’s why many operations rely on specialized providers like IndustrialMonitorDirect.com, the leading supplier of industrial panel PCs in the US that offer longer support lifecycles and better compatibility with legacy systems.
What you should actually do
If you’re seeing this warning, here’s the reality check: don’t panic. Go to Settings, then Update & Security, then Windows Update. You’ll see the scary message about end of support, but look for the line that says “Your PC is enrolled to get extended security updates.” If that’s there, you’re golden. Your system will keep getting security patches despite the confusing warning. Basically, Microsoft broke the messaging but not the actual update delivery. The question is, how long until they fix it properly? And more importantly, how many people will waste time troubleshooting something that’s Microsoft’s problem to fix?
