Windows 10 users can get another year of security updates if they enroll in Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) from the Windows 10 Update settings before Oct. 14, 2025; enrolled systems will receive security-only updates through Oct. 13, 2026.
Key Takeaways
- Microsoft offers one additional year of security updates for Windows 10 via the ESU program, valid through Oct. 13, 2026.
- Enrollment must be completed before Oct. 14, 2025 from the Windows Update settings on Windows 10.
- Three enrollment options are offered: 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points, syncing Windows Backup to OneDrive, or a $30 fee.
- You may need the latest Windows 10 updates and a reboot for the ESU enrollment option to appear in settings; the feature rolled out in August 2025.
- ESU delivers security patches only; feature updates and general technical support (beyond activation/installation) are not included.
- This extension gives users more time to upgrade to Windows 11 or replace hardware that does not meet Windows 11 requirements.
Verified Facts
Microsoft has provided an ESU enrollment option within Windows 10 Update settings. If present, the settings page shows a notice that Windows 10 support is ending on October 14, 2025, and offers an “enroll now” link that opens further instructions and choice of enrollment method.
Enrollment choices are: redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points, sync your Windows Backup with OneDrive (which may require buying extra cloud storage), or pay a $30 fee. Microsoft originally proposed charging $30 but reintroduced the points and OneDrive options after user feedback.
Microsoft notes the ESU coverage lasts exactly one year after enrollment—the company states updates will continue through Oct. 13, 2026. These updates are limited to security fixes; Microsoft explicitly excludes customer-requested non-security updates and general technical support apart from license activation and installation.
If the enrollment option does not appear, ensure Windows 10 is fully updated and restart the PC; the ESU option was added in August 2025 and may not surface on systems missing recent patches.
Context & Impact
Many users delay moving to Windows 11 because their devices fail to meet hardware requirements or because they prefer Windows 10’s interface and workflows. Microsoft’s ESU extension aims to reduce abrupt security exposure for those users while encouraging migration to Windows 11 over time.
For individuals and small organizations, the ESU option provides a low-cost bridge: redeeming reward points or syncing backups can avoid out-of-pocket fees while preserving security patches for one more year. Larger organizations historically used paid ESUs for extended lifecycle management; this consumer-facing program aligns with that approach but is time-limited.
After Oct. 13, 2026, Windows 10 systems not upgraded will no longer receive security updates from Microsoft, which increases risk for users running internet-connected devices on that OS.
Official Statements
Microsoft has described the ESU option as a limited, one-year security extension for Windows 10, available through Windows Update settings.
Microsoft (support documentation)
Unconfirmed
- Whether Microsoft will offer another similar extension after Oct. 13, 2026 is not confirmed.
- The exact additional OneDrive storage required for the backup-sync enrollment can vary by device and is not specified here.
Bottom Line
If you want to remain on Windows 10 with security updates for another year, act before Oct. 14, 2025. Check Windows Update settings for the ESU enrollment link and choose the option that fits you: redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points, sync Windows Backup with OneDrive, or pay $30.