Support for Windows 10 is scheduled to end on Oct. 14. Although the older operating system is 10 years old, it's still used by up to 400 million computers and nearly 41% of PC owners. If you're among them, you'll have to either upgrade your device or continue using outdated software if your device doesn't support Windows 11.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 Oct. 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. The cost to enroll in Microsoft's ESU program is $30, but Europeans can enroll free.
Luckily for the rest of the world, there are two more free enrollment options: You can either use Windows Backup and sync your settings to your OneDrive account or redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points.
Don't miss any of our unbiased tech content and lab-based reviews. Add CNET as a preferred Google source on Chrome.
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, click Windows Update and 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.
... continue reading