You Can Get an Extra Year of Free Windows 10 Security Updates
Windows 10’s end of support is just a few months away, but Microsoft is giving users who can’t (or don’t want to) give up Windows 10 more options to get security updates for another year. The company will end most support for the older operating system on October 14, 2025, pushing users toward Windows 11.
One of the risks of not upgrading to Windows 11 by the deadline is that your device will not be protected from viruses and hackers unless you use one of the free or paid options to enroll in Extended Security Updates (ESU).
Please note that Microsoft has also extended support for Microsoft 365 apps on Windows 10 until October 10, 2028.
How to Get Extended Security Updates for Windows 10
Windows 10 users could already pay $30 for a year of ESU coverage, which you can still do, but Microsoft is now offering two additional options to protect your device for free. You can either choose Windows Backup to sync your settings to the cloud, or use 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points earned when you purchase or otherwise interact with Microsoft services, including Bing. Note that both of these “free” options require you to have (or sign up for) a Microsoft account.
If you’re still running Windows 10, you’ll receive a push notification about the program or find the sign-up wizard in the Settings app. Sign-up for the Windows Insider program is now open, and Microsoft plans to roll it out to Windows 10 customers in July, with general availability by mid-August.
Extended coverage will continue until October 13, 2026, with critical security updates delivered monthly. Please note that ESU does not include new features, non-security updates, design change requests, or technical support.