- You can choose to upgrade to Windows 11 for free if your computer is compatible.
- You can buy a new PC that already has Windows 11 pre-installed (or opt for an alternative, like a Mac or a Chromebook).
- Forget about Windows 11 right now and sign up for the Extended Security Updates (ESU), which lets you kick the can down the road for a year.
- If you can’t upgrade your PC to Windows 11, you should sign up for the Extended Security Updates program ASAP.
Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. It means your device will no longer receive critical security patches, bug fixes, or system updates that help protect it against new threats and vulnerabilities. Yet, more than 40 percent of desktop computers worldwide are still running Windows 10, mostly because their hardware doesn’t meet Windows 11’s strict system requirements, such as TPM 2.0 or Secure Boot, or due to compatibility issues with older software. Well, if your PC isn’t compatible with the newer OS (Windows 11), you can extend Windows 10 support for one more year through Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for free of charge. All you need is a Microsoft account.
Anyone with Windows 10 can enroll in the Extended Security Updates program and continue receiving updates through Oct. 13, 2026.
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What Is Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU)?
The Extended Security Updates (ESU) is Microsoft’s way of giving users more time before completely retiring an older OS. It delivers critical and important security patches after the official end-of-support date, but it doesn’t include new features or non-security updates.
By enrolling, Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU), you’ll continue to receive monthly security patches until October 13, 2026.
The ESU program ensures:
- Your Windows 10 device continues to receive monthly security updates
- Protection against emerging malware and cyber threats
- Continued reliability for mission-critical and legacy systems
Initially, ESU was a paid subscription for enterprises, but starting late 2025, Microsoft extended the program to home and small-business users, with a free one-year offer.
However, ESU is only available for a maximum of three years, ending in October 2028. After that date, there will be no further security updates or upgrade options for Windows 10.
How to Enroll in Extended Security Updates (ESU) for free
Microsoft is gradually rolling out an “Enroll in Extended Security Updates” option inside Windows Update settings. Once the feature is available on your system, you can enroll it by following the steps.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings. Go to Update & Security › Windows Update.
- Here, look for a Message stating “Windows 10 support ends in October 2025” and a link or button that says “Enroll in Extended Security Updates” or “Enroll now.“
- When you click the “Enroll now” link. This will open the ESU enrollment wizard.
- If you are signed into Windows with a local account, you will be prompted to sign into your Microsoft account.
- Sign in with your existing Microsoft Account user ID and password or create a new one.
- If you are already logged in with a Microsoft account, you will see a prompt to enroll your device.
- Once the process is complete, you should receive confirmation that your device is enrolled in the ESU program.
Once done, reboot your PC, and again open settings -> Update and security -> Windows Update. Here you will see your PC is enrolled to get extended security updates. (as shown on the image below)
If you have more than one Windows 10 PC connected to the same Microsoft account, you can repeat the registration process on each device. Just go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and select Enroll now on those additional devices.
You can use your existing ESU license on up to 10 devices once you enroll in ESU.
Note: ESU is not free for local accounts. Microsoft clearly states that users who prefer not to link a Microsoft account must pay $30 to continue receiving updates.
According to Microsoft’s ESU policy:
“Users with a local account who do not want to remain signed in to the eligible PC with a Microsoft account can make a one-time purchase of $30 USD. This will enable extended security updates on the device until October 13, 2026.”
This one-year extension ensures your system stays protected against new vulnerabilities while you plan your next upgrade.
Windows 10 Enterprise and Education editions are not covered by the free ESU program. Organizations will have to purchase extended security updates for up to three years, starting at $61 per device for the first year, with the price rising each year.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who is eligible for the free ESU program?
Any Windows 10 Home, Pro, or Enterprise user running version 22H2, signed in with a Microsoft Account, and using Windows Backup / Sync features.
2. Can I get ESU without linking my Microsoft Account?
Only users in the EEA (European Economic Area) can do so due to privacy regulations.
3. Will ESU install automatically?
Once enrolled, your PC will receive updates automatically via Windows Update—no extra steps required.
4. Will my files or settings be affected?
No. ESU only continues delivering security updates; your files and apps remain untouched.
5. Can I still upgrade to Windows 11 later?
Yes. You can upgrade at any time — ESU does not block upgrades or reset activation.
