Great news for Windows 10 users — Microsoft has officially extended security updates for Windows 10 until October 2026. This means you can continue using your favorite OS without upgrading to Windows 11, and better yet, you can enroll in the extended support program for free using your current Windows setup.
Let’s walk through all the details:
✅ What this update means
✅ How to enroll in Extended Security Updates (ESU)
✅ What options are available
✅ Step-by-step instructions
✅ And answers to common questions
🗓️ Why is This a Big Deal?
Originally, Microsoft planned to end all support for Windows 10 by October 14, 2025. But due to the huge user base still actively using and preferring Windows 10, Microsoft has decided to offer an extension — adding one extra year of security updates, now through October 2026.
💡 This gives users more time to either upgrade or stay secure on a familiar OS — without being forced to switch.
🔐 What is the Extended Security Update (ESU) Program?
The ESU program ensures that your Windows 10 system will continue receiving:
- Critical security patches
- Vulnerability fixes
- Malware protection updates
And all of this comes without the need to install Windows 11 — making it a great option for older PCs or users who simply prefer the stability of Windows 10.
💬 Why Isn’t the ESU Option Showing on My PC?
If you’re not seeing the “Enroll Now” button in your Windows Update settings yet — don’t panic.
- Microsoft is rolling out the ESU offer gradually across regions
- It may appear earlier in some countries and later in others
- Keep checking regularly by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update
Once available, you’ll see an “Enroll Now” prompt on the right side or center of your update screen.
🛠️ Step-by-Step: How to Enroll in Windows 10 Extended Security Updates
Once the option appears on your PC, here’s what to do:
✅ Prerequisites:
- You must have administrator access
- You must be signed in with a Microsoft account
- Your system should be fully updated to the latest version of Windows 10
🧭 Enrolling for Extended Support – 3 Options:
Microsoft provides three different ways to enroll in Extended Support:
1. Sync via Windows Backup Settings (Recommended)
This is the easiest and most convenient method.
- Click “Enroll Now”
- Select the “Sync settings” option
- You’ll be prompted to enable Windows Backup
- Once enabled, your device will automatically enroll in the ESU program
🔐 This method is free and automatic.
2. Redeem with Microsoft Rewards (Also Free)
If you use Microsoft Rewards — earned through Bing searches, Xbox Game Pass, or Microsoft Store activities — you can use 1000 points to unlock extended support.
Steps:
- Visit https://rewards.microsoft.com
- Sign in with your Microsoft account
- Check if you’ve earned 1000+ points
- Use those points to redeem Extended Security Updates
💡 Many users accumulate enough points just by using Bing or Microsoft Edge regularly.
3. Pay $30 (If Other Options Fail)
Microsoft is also offering the ESU as a paid subscription for $30/year per device if you can’t or don’t want to use the first two options.
However, this option should be your last resort, as the first two methods are completely free and user-friendly.
So, Windows 10 users just got a lifeline — official support has been extended until 2026, and the best part is that there’s a way to claim it for free. 🎉 But keeping your PC secure and fast goes beyond just updates. If you haven’t already, check out our [Best Completely Free Antivirus Tools for Windows 10 & 11 in 2025] to strengthen your protection, and don’t miss our [How to Fix Windows 10 & 11 Problems Using Advanced Startup Options] guide to handle those stubborn errors that updates alone can’t solve.
🔁 Can I Continue Using Windows 10 After 2026?
That remains uncertain. Microsoft has only announced support until October 2026 for now. But if demand remains high, they may extend it again — just like they did this time.
So, for now, enjoy at least another full year of secure Windows 10 usage — no need to rush into upgrading.
🔁 Useful Resources
- How to Install Google Play Store on Windows 11 (No Emulator Needed)
- How to Install Windows 11 on Unsupported PCs: Bypass CPU, TPM, and Secure Boot Restrictions
- The Complete Guide to Installing Windows Without a USB Drive (Windows 10/11)
- Customizing Windows 11 with Windhawk: A Complete Guide
❓ FAQs
Q: Is this update available to all users?
Yes. Microsoft plans to roll out this to all eligible Windows 10 devices gradually.
Q: Why can’t I see the “Enroll Now” button?
It’s being rolled out region-wise. Keep checking your Windows Update section regularly.
Q: Will I lose data by enrolling?
No, this is a security patch extension, not an upgrade or installation. Your files and system will remain intact.
Q: Do I have to use a Microsoft account?
Yes, for both syncing settings and claiming rewards, a Microsoft account is required.
✅ Final Thoughts
If you’re happy with Windows 10 and not ready to upgrade to Windows 11, this update is a lifeline. It gives you extra time without compromising on security — and in most cases, without paying a single penny.
So go ahead:
- Wait for the Enroll Now prompt
- Choose sync or rewards method
- And continue enjoying Windows 10 securely into 2026
🔗 Useful Resources:
🏷️ Tags:
windows 10 support extension, esu windows 10, windows 10 security updates, windows 10 till 2026, microsoft rewards for esu, how to extend windows 10 support, windows update enroll now
📢 Hashtags:
#Windows10 #ESU #MicrosoftUpdate #SecureWindows #WindowsSupport2026 #Windows10Tips #NoUpgradeNeeded #MicrosoftRewards
If you’re sticking with Windows 10, what’s your reason? Compatibility? Stability? Simplicity? Let us know in the comments!
I like Windows 10 professional, and I have a very expensive Cad Workstation that I don’t want to replace. My computer does not meet the requirements for Windows 11
Although the support extended, but still there are many ways you can upgrade your pc with windows 11.
✅ How to Upgrade to Windows 11 on Unsupported PCs Using FlyByWin11
How to Keep Your Files When Upgrading an Unsupported PC to Windows 11 Using FlyBy11