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- Topic: Windows 10 ESU Extended to October : How to Enroll for Free (Step by Step)
- Intent: step-by-step learning or troubleshooting
- Verify: Use this as a practical starting point, then verify important details with current authoritative sources.
- Related entities: windows, esu, extended, october, 2027
Last updated: November 3, 2026
Best for: Best for readers who need a step-by-step explanation and practical troubleshooting checks.
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Short answer: Microsoft has extended the consumer Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program to October 12, 2027, one year longer than first planned. You can still enroll today, and it costs nothing if you simply back up your PC settings to your Microsoft account. Rewards points or a one-time $30 payment are the other two options.
If you are still on Windows 10 and wondering whether your PC is now unsafe, this guide explains what ESU actually covers, whether your PC qualifies, and the exact steps to turn it on.
What changed with Windows 10 support?
Windows 10 reached its normal end of support on October 14, 2025. After that date, regular free updates stopped. Microsoft offered a paid-or-free bridge called Extended Security Updates for home users, and it was originally due to finish in October 2026.
In June 2026, Microsoft quietly pushed that date back. Its official Consumer ESU page now says the program ends on October 12, 2027. People who already enrolled do not need to do anything, because their coverage continues automatically to the new date.
What does ESU give you (and what it does not)?
ESU delivers only critical and important security updates. That is it. You do not get new features, general bug fixes, or technical support from Microsoft.
Think of it as a safety net, not a long-term plan. It keeps known security holes patched while you decide what to do next, whether that is upgrading to Windows 11 or replacing an older PC.
Does your PC qualify?
According to Microsoft’s Consumer ESU page, you need all of the following:
- Windows 10, version 22H2 (Home, Pro, Pro Education or Workstations)
- The latest Windows updates installed
- The Licensing Preparation Package, KB5126256, installed
- A Microsoft account with administrator rights on the PC (not a child account)
It is not available for kiosk-mode devices, for PCs joined to Active Directory, Microsoft Entra or managed through MDM (Entra-registered devices are allowed), or for devices that already hold an ESU license. In practice, most home laptops and desktops are fine.
To check your version, press Win + R, type winver and press Enter. You want to see “Version 22H2”.
The three ways to enroll
| Option | Cost | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Back up your PC settings | No charge | Most people who use a Microsoft account anyway |
| Redeem Microsoft Rewards points | 1,000 points | People who already collect Rewards points |
| One-time purchase | $30 USD or local equivalent, plus tax | People who do not want to sync settings |
One ESU license can cover up to 10 devices linked to the same Microsoft account. Microsoft also notes that enrollment options and timing can vary by region, for example in the European Economic Area, so the screen you see may differ slightly from the steps below.
How to enroll in Windows 10 ESU, step by step
- Open Settings and go to Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates and install everything that appears, including KB5126256 if it is offered.
- Look for the Enroll now link in the Windows Update page and click it.
- If you are using a local account, Windows will ask you to sign in with a Microsoft account. Do that.
- Choose one of the three options: back up your settings, use 1,000 Rewards points, or pay the one-time fee.
- Finish the prompts and restart if asked. After that, security updates arrive through Windows Update as usual.
If you do not see “Enroll now”, the usual reasons are a missing update, a PC that is still on an older 22H2 build, or a work or school account managing the device. Install all pending updates, restart, and look again.
Should you stay on Windows 10 or move to Windows 11?
ESU buys you time. It does not make Windows 10 a new product. For the next year it is a reasonable choice if your PC is not eligible for Windows 11 or you simply are not ready to switch.
Plan to move before October 2027, though. If your PC meets the requirements, Windows 11 is the better long-term home. A few things worth knowing before you do:
- Back up your files first. A spare external drive or cloud storage is enough.
- Some recent updates have caused problems on gaming PCs. Our guide to fixing Windows 11 mouse stutter in games covers one example.
- If an older PC feels slow either way, this Windows speed-up guide and our laptop overheating fixes are good places to start.
Frequently asked questions
Is Windows 10 ESU really free?
It can be. Backing up your PC settings to your Microsoft account costs nothing. If you prefer not to, you can use 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points or pay a one-time $30.
Until when is Windows 10 supported now?
Consumer ESU security updates run until October 12, 2027. Regular Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025.
Do I need a Microsoft account?
Yes. Enrollment requires a Microsoft account with administrator rights on the PC. If you are signed in with a local account, Windows will prompt you to sign in with a Microsoft account.
Does ESU include new features or support?
No. It includes only critical and important security updates. There are no feature improvements, no other fixes and no technical support.
Can I use one ESU license on more than one PC?
Yes. One license covers up to 10 devices associated with the same Microsoft account.
Details are based on Microsoft’s Consumer ESU page and reporting from BleepingComputer at the time of writing. Programs and prices can change, so check Microsoft’s page if something looks different on your screen.
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