Microsoft is about to pull the plug on Windows 10. Support for the decade-old operating system is scheduled to end on October 14, and users are encouraged to upgrade to Windows 11.
However, we're less than two months out from that end-of-support date, and nearly 43% PC owners are still running Windows 10. These users must now either upgrade their devices or continue using the outdated software if their device doesn't support Windows 11.
To give its users more time to upgrade their software and hardware to Windows 11, Microsoft has promised to continue supporting Windows 10 with one more year of security updates. Anyone with Windows 10 can enroll in the Extended Security Updates program and continue receiving updates through October 13, 2026.
Microsoft says the ESU program is "not intended as a long-term solution, but rather as a temporary bridge to stay secure while one migrates to a newer, supported platform."
Windows security vulnerabilities are serious business, so the ESU program is necessary for any users who can't or don't want to upgrade to Windows 11. You can enroll in Microsoft's ESU program for $30, or take advantage of two free enrollment options. You can either use Windows Backup and sync your settings to your OneDrive account or redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points.
How do I enroll in Microsoft's Extended Security Updates for Windows 10?
You'll need to make sure you're running the latest version of Windows 10, version 22H2. You can check your Windows version in Settings. Then, you'll click Windows Update, after that you select View Update History. You'll also need to have administrative privileges on your PC.
Once you're sure you're up to date, visit Settings and Windows Update again and look for the links in the top right corner of the interface. It should read, "Windows 10 support ends in October 2025" and "Enroll in Extended Security Updates to help keep your device secure."
Below that messaging is a link to enroll, which will pop-up the Extended Security Updates enrollment wizard. You'll need to decide whether you want to sync your settings with OneDrive, pay $30 or use 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points for the ESU program.
Microsoft
... continue reading