Windows 10's free updates ended, but Microsoft offers one more year of security patches through October 13, 2026 via the ESU program.
It can cost zero dollars (with a small condition), one thousand Rewards points, or thirty bucks. Enrollment takes five minutes right from Windows Update. Here's exactly how.
What you'll need
- A Windows 10 PC, fully updated to version 22H2
- A Microsoft account (free)
How to do it
- Update to 22H2 first. Settings, Update and Security, Windows Update, Check for updates. The enrollment offer only appears on fully patched Windows 10 systems running the final version, 22H2.
- Find the Enroll now link. On the same Windows Update page, below the 'support has ended' notice, Microsoft placed an enrollment wizard link. Click it and you'll get three paths.
- Choose the free path: sync your PC settings. Sign in with your Microsoft account and let it sync your settings (via Windows Backup). Microsoft explicitly confirmed you don't have to sync everything, the account connection alone typically qualifies. Zero dollars.
- Path two: redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points if you have them
- Path three: a one time $30 purchase, local currency equivalent
- Stay signed in to keep coverage. This is the rule people miss: if your Microsoft account goes without a sign in for up to 60 days, ESU updates stop until you sign back in. Just use the PC normally with the account attached and you're fine.
- Verify enrollment worked. Back on Windows Update, the page should now describe your device as enrolled for extended updates through October 2026, and new security patches will download monthly like before.
A few things worth knowing
- Set a reminder for early October 2026: when ESU ends you'll need the upgrade, bypass or Linux decision, and a gentle heads up beats a surprise.
- One $30 purchase covers up to 10 devices on the same Microsoft account for multi PC homes.
- Snap a screenshot of the enrolled status page for your records, two seconds of insurance.
Pitfalls worth skipping
- ESU covers security only: no new features, no design changes, no technical support included.
- Kiosk or domain joined business machines can't use consumer ESU, that's a separate volume licensing program your IT team handles.
Questions people ask
Is the free option really free?
Yes: if you sign in and stay signed in with a Microsoft account syncing settings, Microsoft grants the year at no cost. The $30 path exists for those who prefer to skip account linking.
Can I enroll later than now?
Enrollment stays open until the program ends, but patches accrue month by month. The earlier you enroll, the fewer unprotected months pass.
Keep reading
- How to Speed Up Windows 11: 10 Settings That Make a Real Difference
- How to Install Windows 11 on an Unsupported PC (No TPM 2.0, Older CPU)
- How to Use Copilot in Windows 11 to Genuinely Save Time
That covers it
Update to 22H2, click enroll, sync the account, stay signed in. One more safe year for the price of nothing but five minutes.
