Microsoft will stop providing security and feature updates for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. After this date, devices running Windows 10 become increasingly vulnerable to malware and cyberattacks unless users take action to continue receiving security patches. To give users more time before upgrading to Windows 11, Microsoft now offers several ways to enroll in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program—some of which are completely free for personal use. Here’s how you can keep your Windows 10 PC protected beyond the official support deadline.

Method 1: Enroll in ESU Using Windows Backup (Free Option)

Syncing your PC settings to the cloud with Windows Backup and OneDrive is the most straightforward way to receive free security updates for an additional year after Windows 10 support ends. This method is available to individual users and does not require any payment, but it does require a Microsoft account and sufficient OneDrive storage.

Step 1: Ensure your device is running Windows 10, version 22H2. This is the only version eligible for ESU enrollment. To check your version, open Settings > System > About and look under Windows specifications.

Step 2: Install the latest Windows 10 updates. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and click Check for updates. This step ensures your device meets all prerequisites for ESU enrollment.

Step 3: Make sure you are signed in with a Microsoft account that has administrator privileges. If you’re using a local account, you’ll be prompted to sign in with your Microsoft account during the enrollment process. Note that child accounts are not eligible.

Step 4: Enable Windows Backup to sync your settings to OneDrive. Open Settings > Accounts > Windows backup and follow the prompts to back up your settings and files to OneDrive. This backup process links your device to the ESU program at no additional cost.

Step 5: Once your device is eligible, navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. You should see an option to Enroll now for Extended Security Updates. Click this link and follow the on-screen instructions to complete enrollment.

Step 6: After enrollment, your PC will receive monthly security updates through Windows Update until October 13, 2026. You can verify your enrollment status in the same Windows Update section.

Note: The free OneDrive storage limit is 5GB. If your backup exceeds this limit, you may need to purchase additional storage. OneDrive plans start at $2/month for 100GB, which is still a lower cost than the paid ESU option.

Method 2: Redeem Microsoft Rewards Points for ESU (Free Option)

If you use Microsoft Rewards, you can exchange 1,000 points for one year of Extended Security Updates. This is another no-cost method for individual users.

Step 1: Confirm your device meets all prerequisites as outlined in Method 1 (Windows 10 version 22H2, latest updates, Microsoft account with admin rights).

Step 2: Accumulate at least 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points. These points can be earned by using Bing search, completing daily activities, or participating in Microsoft promotions.

Step 3: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and select Enroll now for ESU. When prompted, choose the option to redeem Microsoft Rewards points for enrollment.

Step 4: Follow the on-screen instructions to finalize enrollment. Your device will be covered for security updates through October 13, 2026.

Note: Microsoft Rewards points can only be redeemed for ESU if your device meets the eligibility requirements and you are signed in with the same Microsoft account used to collect points.

Method 3: Purchase ESU Subscription (Paid Option)

For users who prefer not to use cloud backup or don’t have enough Rewards points, Microsoft offers a paid ESU option for personal Windows 10 PCs. The cost is $30 for one year, covering up to 10 devices linked to your Microsoft account.

Step 1: Confirm your PC is running Windows 10 version 22H2 and has all the latest updates installed. Ensure your Microsoft account has administrator privileges.

Step 2: Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and click Enroll now for ESU.

Step 3: When prompted, select the one-time purchase option. Complete the payment process using your Microsoft account. The ESU license will be tied to your account and can be used on up to 10 eligible devices.

Step 4: Enrollment activates security updates for your device through October 13, 2026. You can view your ESU purchase in your Microsoft account order history.

Step 5: If you wish to cancel your ESU order, you may do so before October 14, 2025, for a refund, according to Microsoft’s digital purchase policies.

Method 4: ESU for Organizations and Commercial Devices

Businesses, educational institutions, and organizations can purchase ESU licenses through Microsoft’s Volume Licensing Program. These licenses are more expensive and designed for managed environments.

  • Year 1: $61 per device for organizations; $1 per device for education customers.
  • Each subsequent year doubles in price, with a maximum of three years of coverage.
  • Enrollment is managed by IT administrators using tools like Microsoft Intune or Windows Autopatch.
  • Minimum purchase is one license; licenses must be bought annually and are cumulative.
  • Cloud-connected devices using Windows 365 or Azure Virtual Desktop may receive ESU at no additional cost.

Technical support for ESU is limited to issues with activation, installation, and update regressions. Standard Windows 10 support is not included.

Alternative: Third-Party Security Patch Services

For users who do not wish to use Microsoft’s ESU program, third-party providers like 0patch offer critical security patches for Windows 10 after end of support. These services typically cost between $25 and $36 per PC per year and deliver “micropatches” for newly discovered vulnerabilities. These are not official Microsoft updates and may require manual installation.

Unauthorized methods for bypassing ESU licensing exist but are not legal and expose users to compliance risks and potential legal action.

Keeping your Windows 10 PC secure after official support ends is now possible through several official Microsoft options, including free enrollment for personal users. Choosing the right method depends on your needs, privacy preferences, and willingness to use cloud services or rewards points.