The date is October 14, 2025, marking the official end of support for Windows 10. This announcement signifies the close of an important chapter in computing history.
However, it is crucial to note that your computer won’t cease functioning immediately. As I type this on a Windows 10 device, everything remains operational. Yet, if you’re among the vast number of users sticking with Windows 10, it’s essential to take a proactive step to ensure the safety of your system. Trust me, this is a worthwhile effort.
Enroll in the Windows Extended Security Updates Program
The Importance of Security Updates for Windows 10
To continue utilizing Windows 10 safely after its official updates cease, registering for the Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) is essential. This program provides critical security updates for Windows 10 devices until October 13, 2026, offering an additional year of protection beyond the official end-of-life date.
Although this initiative is not intended for long-term use of Windows 10, it addresses a significant security concern. With over 40% of computers worldwide still operating on this platform, the prospect of leaving millions of devices vulnerable is alarming.
Microsoft’s ESU program essentially extends a lifeline for another year, allowing users ample time to transition to Windows 11 or consider alternative operating systems.
Signing Up is Simple and Quick
Preparing Your Windows 10 Device for Enrollment
Claiming that additional year of support is straightforward. To proceed, you need to enroll in the Microsoft Extended Security Updates program. Here’s how to do it:
- Press Win + I to open Settings.
- Navigate to Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Under the message indicating that Windows 10 support ends in October 2025, click Enrol now.
- In the following window, click Next.
- You will see the enrollment option at “no extra cost.”Click Enrol.
If you don’t see the prompt for enrolment, ensure your Windows 10 device is fully updated. Your system should be running version 22H2, the last major update of Windows 10, along with the necessary August 2025 update (KB5063709).
Should the enrolment option still be absent, confirm that you are logged into an administrator account, as administrative privileges are necessary to access the ESU enrolment prompt.
The Microsoft account used for signing in must have administrator privileges. The ESU license will link to your Microsoft account upon enrollment. If you generally sign in with a local account, you may need to log in with a Microsoft account.
Affordable Protection with Windows 10 ESU
Some Users Can Access It for Free
Initially, Microsoft announced a $30 fee for the ESU scheme. However, it has since adjusted its pricing model. You can now gain access via 1, 000 Microsoft Reward points, or choose to pay the $30 fee. Residents of the EU can benefit from this service entirely free of charge, as mandated by local regulations.
While I personally found the $30 fee reasonable and was able to enroll at no cost, if you’re low on Microsoft Rewards points, there are various strategies available to quickly accumulate them.
Although you can sign up for the Extended Security Updates program until the deadline of October 13, 2026, I highly recommend enrolling now. The sooner you secure your Windows 10 devices, the less risk you face from potential cyber threats targeting unsupported systems.
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