Extend Windows 10 Updates for Free: Get an Extra Year
▼ Summary
– Enroll in the Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program via the Settings app under Windows Update, where an “enroll now” link will appear.
– A Microsoft account is required for enrollment but can be signed out afterward, though re-enrollment or fresh installs will require signing in again.
– ESU licenses can be obtained through a $30 one-time payment, redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points, or using the Windows Backup app.
– The Windows Backup app is the simplest option, backing up settings, apps, and selected folders, and may offer free enrollment if previously used.
– Once enrolled, a status message confirms updates will continue until October 2026, with additional Defender and Office updates supported until at least 2028.
Windows 10 users can now secure an additional year of critical updates at no cost by enrolling in Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. This option provides continued protection for eligible devices beyond the official end-of-support date in October 2025.
To enroll, open the Settings app and navigate to Windows Update. Eligible systems will display a notification about the upcoming end of support, along with an “Enroll Now” link. Clicking this initiates the enrollment process, which requires signing in with a Microsoft account. While this step is mandatory for registration, users can later sign out without losing access to updates, though re-enrollment for new installations or devices will require signing in again.
Microsoft offers three methods to obtain an ESU license:
- A one-time $30 payment
- Redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points
- Using the Windows Backup app
The Windows Backup option is the simplest, as it automatically qualifies users for free enrollment if their account has previously backed up settings. The process syncs credentials, system preferences, and select apps to the cloud. While the free 5GB storage limit isn’t substantial, it’s sufficient for basic backup needs.
Once enrolled, a confirmation message appears in Windows Update, verifying extended security patches until October 2026. Additionally, Microsoft guarantees Defender Antivirus updates and Office security patches through 2028, ensuring broader protection for compatible software.
For those who haven’t used Windows Backup, the system presents alternative enrollment paths during setup. Regardless of the method chosen, clicking “Enroll” finalizes registration, granting uninterrupted updates for another year. This initiative helps bridge the gap for users not yet ready to upgrade their operating system.
(Source: Ars Technica)
