Windows 10 Support Ends on October 14: Here’s How to Receive Extended Updates for Free

Windows 10 support will end on October 14, which means users have less than a week to ensure their computers continue to receive updates. Microsoft’s operating system (OS), launched nearly a decade ago, will not receive new updates once support ends on October 14. While users with a licensed version of Windows 10 can upgrade to Windows 11 for free, the migration will not be possible for those with older PCs that are incompatible with the latest version of Microsoft’s operating system. Fortunately, there is still a way to receive updates that will allow them to use their PCs for another year without being forced to upgrade to Windows 11.

About the Windows 10 ESU program

Microsoft announced the Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program last year, which will allow users to continue receiving security updates until 2026. At the time, the company said it would be a paid service, but Microsoft later changed its policy and said Windows 10 ESU updates would also be available for free.

According to the company, PCs enrolled in the Windows 10 ESU program will receive “critical and important security updates” every month. However, these updates will not include new operating system features or technical support, and the company said the ESU program is not a “long-term solution.”

Windows 10 ESU program prerequisites

Microsoft says users must ensure their devices meet the requirements of the Windows 10 ESU program. This means the PC or laptop should:

1. Runs on Windows 10 version 22H2 Home, Pro, Pro Education, or Workstation editions.
2. Latest Windows updates installed.
3. Sign in with a Microsoft account with administrator rights.

How to sign up for the Windows 10 ESU program

There are three ways to sign up for the Windows 10 ESU program:

1. Use Windows Backup (Free)
2. Redeem Microsoft Rewards Points
3. Pay a fee of USD 30 (approximately Rs. 2,660)

So, if your computer running Windows 10 can’t be upgraded to Windows 11, here’s how you can still receive security updates.

1. Navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. If your device is eligible, you will see a link to register your device with ESU. Click Sign up now.
2. Sign in with your Microsoft account.
3. Choose how to register. You can back up your settings to OneDrive, redeem Microsoft Rewards, or pay a one-time fee of $30 (roughly Rs. 2,660).
4. Once completed, your PC will be eligible to receive Windows 10 ESU updates until October 13, 2026.

Microsoft says that the Windows 10 ESU program is being rolled out gradually and may not be available to all users at this time. The company has confirmed that it will start rolling out Windows 10 support to everyone before it ends on October 14.