With Windows 10 having reached its official end of support on October 14, 2025, users must enroll in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program to continue receiving critical security patches. This is especially urgent with the first post-support Patch Tuesday approaching, which will address newly discovered vulnerabilities. The ESU program is designed for individuals and organizations who cannot immediately upgrade to Windows 11 due to hardware limitations or application compatibility.
For most consumers, enrollment is available for one additional year at a cost of $30, by redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Reward points, or for free by ensuring their Windows settings are backed up to a Microsoft account. Users in the European Economic Area have the added flexibility of receiving free ESU even when using a local account. Enterprise customers, however, face a more complex and costly process, with a three-year program totaling $427 per device.
Enrolling is straightforward for consumers through the Windows Update settings, where a wizard guides the user through the available options. Staying protected is critical, as Microsoft routinely patches actively exploited flaws, such as a recent driver vulnerability used to gain administrative privileges. By enrolling in ESU, users can ensure their systems remain secure against emerging threats until they can transition to a supported operating system.
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