Microsoft offers Extended Windows 10 Security Updates, but there’s a catch

Here’s how to extend Windows 10’s security past October 2025

The end of Windows 10’s security support is coming. After October 14th 2025, Windows 10 will no longer receive security updates. That means that users of the OS should either upgrade to Windows 11 (if their PC supports it) or purchase a new Windows 11 PC. Thankfully, Microsoft has given Windows 10 users the option to extend this deadline until October 2026, offering extended security updates for users who enrol in Microsoft’s “Extended Security Updates” (ESU) program.

Microsoft’s ESU program will extend security updates until October 13th 2026. This will provide users with an additional year of security updates. While this is only a temporary solution, it is a welcome one. However, this program has a few strings attached.

Windows 10 Extended Security Updates: A bridge to your Windows 11 experience

We understand that moving to a new PC can take time, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. The Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program is designed to help keep your Windows 10 PC protected after support ends on Oct. 14, 2025. ESU delivers monthly critical and important security updates to help you stay secure during the transition. However, it’s not meant to be a long-term solution-it doesn’t include new features, non-security updates, design change requests or technical support.

As we shared last October, for the first time ever, you can enroll your personal Windows 10 PC in the ESU program and receive critical and important monthly security updates for one year after support ends in October.

– Microsoft

There are three ways for Windows 10’s user base to enrol in Microsoft’s ESU program. Two of these options are “free”, with one requiring the use of Windows backup while the other requires 1,000 Microsoft Reward points. Alternatively, users can pay $30. These options are only available for Windows 10 Personal users.

Today, we’re introducing additional free enrollment options and the simple steps to get started.

Extended Security Updates for Windows 10:

For individuals: An enrollment wizard will be available through notifications and in Settings, making it easy to enroll in ESU directly from your personal Windows 10 PC. Through the enrollment wizard, you’ll be able to choose from three options:

• Use Windows Backup to sync your settings to the cloud-at no additional cost..
• Redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points-at no additional cost..
• Pay $30 USD (local pricing may vary).

The enrollment wizard for Windows 10’s ESU program is available now to Windows Insiders. The option will roll out to all Windows 10 users this July, with broad availability expected in August.

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