Updated October 2026.
Windows 10 reached end of support in October 2025. Since then, home users have relied on the Extended Security Updates (ESU) programme to keep receiving security patches. That cover was due to end on 13 October 2026. In June 2026, Microsoft extended consumer ESU by one more year, to 12 October 2027.
How to get ESU
- Free: turn on Windows Backup to sync your settings with your Microsoft account.
- Free: redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points.
- Paid: a one-year licence for about $30 plus taxes, usable on up to 10 devices.
Eligibility
- Windows 10 version 22H2 (Home, Pro, Pro Education or Workstations)
- Latest updates installed
- Signed in with a Microsoft account that has admin rights. Local accounts need converting, and child accounts are not eligible.
How to check you are enrolled
- Go to Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update.
- Look for a message confirming your PC is enrolled in Extended Security Updates, or an “Enroll now” link if it is not.
- Install pending updates and restart.
Businesses
Organisations use the separate commercial ESU programme, which is paid and priced per device, with costs rising each year. Running unsupported, unpatched Windows on company networks is a serious security and compliance risk, given CERT-In’s expectations on patching known exploited vulnerabilities quickly.
Plan your move anyway
- ESU covers security fixes only, with no new features. Some apps and browsers will gradually drop Windows 10 support.
- Check Windows 11 compatibility with the PC Health Check app. Many 2018+ PCs qualify. TPM 2.0 and supported CPUs are required.
- If your PC is too old, plan a replacement before October 2027. Keep backups either way.
Leave a Reply