Stay Protected: How Windows 10 Users Can Get Another Year of Free Security Updates
- Mervin Rasiah
- Nov 18
- 2 min read
Even though mainstream support for Windows 10 officially ended on October 14, 2025, there’s a built-in way to keep receiving critical security updates through October 13, 2026—without upgrading or paying a fee. Here's how it works and how to set it up.
🚨1. Why Microsoft Offers Extra Security Updates
Date | What Microsoft Provides |
Oct 14, 2025 | Ends regular support—no new security fixes by default [support.mi…rosoft.com], [cnet.com] |
Oct 13, 2026 | Extended Security Updates (ESU) end for consumer Windows 10 [learn.microsoft.com], [microsoft.com] |
Microsoft created a no-cost ESU option to give users time to transition to Windows 11 while staying protected.
✅ 2. Is Your Device Eligible?
Make sure you meet all criteria before enrolling:
Windows 10 version 22H2 (Home, Pro, Pro Education, or Workstation)
All latest updates installed, including Patch Tuesday updates
Using an Administrator Microsoft account
Not joined to Active Directory or enterprise MDM (consumer-only ESU)
Still not sure? Check the detailed Microsoft ESU requirements: Windows 10 Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU)
🔧 3. How to Enroll (Official, Free Method)
Update your PC: Go to Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update → Check for updates and install everything.
Sign in as Administrator: Confirm you're using an admin Microsoft account.
Look for an "Enroll now" option: In Settings → Update & Security, you'll see a prompt for Extended Security Updates.
Choose the free backup option: Sync your Windows settings via OneDrive (free 5 GB) to receive ESU.
Finish enrollment wizard: Once synced, Windows will automatically enroll you for updates through October 2026.
If you don’t see the option, check that you’re fully updated and connected to the internet. A patch (KB5071959) fixes enrollment issues.
💸 4. What Are Your Alternatives?
Redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points: Another free option.
Pay $30 for local account users.
Upgrade to Windows 11 (if your PC meets requirements): Free and keeps you supported beyond 2026.
Replace your PC: Buy a new computer with Windows 11 pre-installed.
🔍 5. Troubleshooting ESU Enrollment
Install KB5071959 to fix ESU wizard errors.
If you get false “end-of-support” alerts, KB5068781 resolves it.
Confirm updates via Settings → Windows Update.
🛡️ Final Take
Windows 10 no longer receives automatic updates after Oct 14, 2025.
You can continue getting security updates through Oct 13, 2026 by enrolling in ESU—completely free if you sync settings to a Microsoft account or redeem Rewards points.
Missed enrollment? Install patch KB5071959 and try again.
🧭 What You Should Do Now
Go to Settings → Update & Security and click Check for updates.
Ensure you’re signed in with an Administrator Microsoft account.
Enroll in ESU using the free backup option.
Stay current—keep installing updates weekly via Windows Update.
By following these steps, your Windows 10 device can remain protected throughout 2026 without paying anything or upgrading—officially backed by Microsoft.
✅ Official Microsoft ESU info & enrollment details here:
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