Microsoft announced it will provide free Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 10 users ahead of the OS’s end of support on October 14, 2025. Previously, consumers were expected to pay $30 per year for these updates.
Users have three ways to access ESU on personal Windows 10 PCs:
- Free enrollment by enabling Windows Backup, which syncs settings and folders to OneDrive. While the 5GB free OneDrive storage may suffice for some, users with large local Document folders might need to purchase additional cloud storage.
- Pay the $30 annual fee.
- Redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points.
An enrollment wizard launching in July will guide users through these options. Once selected, the PC will be automatically enrolled in ESU, according to Yusuf Mehdi, Microsoft’s executive vice president and chief marketing officer.
Extended updates will be available for consumers until October 13, 2026. Businesses, however, can purchase up to three years of security updates. Microsoft is also offering free ESU for Windows 10 devices accessing Windows 11 Cloud PCs via Windows 365 and Virtual Machines.
Microsoft is encouraging users to transition to Windows 11, branding 2025 as the “year of the Windows 11 PC refresh.” Although Windows 11 has become the leading OS for PC gaming, 37% of Steam users currently run Windows 10. With limited time before support ends, Microsoft is likely to increase full-screen notifications prompting users to upgrade or switch devices.