Microsoft Windows 10 Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) Priced at $30 USD

Windows 10 Reaches End of Support: What You Need to Know

As of October 14, 2025, Microsoft officially ended support for Windows 10. This means that users will no longer receive technical assistance, security patches, or feature updates for this operating system. Microsoft is encouraging users to transition to Windows 11 for enhanced performance and security.

Understanding Compatibility Issues

A critical consideration for users looking to upgrade is the variance in hardware requirements between Windows 10 and Windows 11. Unfortunately, not every Windows 10 PC meets the specifications necessary for Windows 11, leaving some users with limited options.

Extended Security Updates (ESU) Program

For those whose devices cannot be upgraded to Windows 11, Microsoft offers the Windows 10 Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, allowing continued security support until October 13, 2026. Consumers have a few options for enrolling in this program:

Enroll at no extra cost if you sync your settings using a Microsoft Account.
Redeem 1, 000 Microsoft Rewards points for enrollment.
Opt for a one-time purchase for $30 USD (or equivalent in local currency), plus applicable taxes, available through the Microsoft Store.

Once enrolled, users will benefit from extended security updates for an additional year. Note that a single ESU license can be utilized on up to ten devices, making it a practical choice for households or small organizations.

How to Check Your Eligibility for ESU

To determine if you can enroll in the ESU program for your Windows 10 device, follow these steps:

Navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. If eligible, a link to enroll in ESU will appear.
If you are logged in with a local account, you will be prompted to sign in to your Microsoft account.
If you aren’t syncing your settings, you can start that process. Otherwise, you may use Microsoft Rewards points or opt for the one-time purchase route to enroll.

Final Thoughts

While upgrading to a new Windows 11 PC is the recommended option from Microsoft, the ESU program provides a valuable alternative for users with older hardware to remain secure until they can transition. This approach allows for a smoother migration strategy, ensuring users can plan their upgrade without compromising on security.

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