Do This If You Want to Receive Windows 10 Security Updates for Another Year.
If you’re still using Windows 10, there’s good news: Microsoft is offering another year of security updates by pushing back the Windows 11 upgrade deadline to October 12, 2027.
Last year, Microsoft officially ended support for the legacy OS, but allowed users to join the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program to maintain protection against viruses and hackers. The ESU program was scheduled to expire on October 13, 2026, but the company is allowing registered Windows 10 users to continue receiving monthly updates for another year—and it’s not too late to sign up if you haven’t already.
You can stay on Windows 10 until October 2027.
If you’re already a member of the Microsoft ESU program, your coverage will automatically extend until October 12, 2027, without any further action on your part. If you’re not yet a member, you can enroll in the ESU program at any time before it ends next year. To participate in the program, your device must be running Windows 10 version 22H2 Home, Professional, Pro Education, or Workstations and have the latest Windows update installed. You must also sign in to a Microsoft account with administrator status.
Windows users initially had the option to purchase ESU coverage for $30, but Microsoft later added the option to either redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points or sign up for Windows Backup for free protection. To check coverage availability or sign up, go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and look for the ESU registration link (it will be visible if your device is eligible). Follow the instructions to sign in with your Microsoft account and select the registration option. If you’ve already purchased an ESU license, you can apply it to up to 10 Windows 10 devices, as long as they are linked to your Microsoft account.
The ESU program doesn’t include any new features or non-security updates, but if you want to stay on Windows 10, it’s highly recommended that you enroll in the program. Microsoft has begun releasing hundreds of critical security patches monthly —some of which have been actively exploited by zero-day vulnerabilities—so you should keep your device protected for as long as possible.