Windows 10 reached its end of support yesterday (October 14, 2025). From today, Windows 10 PCs will no longer receive any technical assistance, feature updates, or security updates from Microsoft. Microsoft"s recommendation for consumers is to upgrade their PCs to the Windows 11 operating system.
Unfortunately, the hardware system requirements for Windows 10 and Windows 11 are different. Consequently, not all Windows 10 PCs can be upgraded to Windows 11. For PCs that do not meet the technical requirements to run Windows 11, Microsoft recommends that customers enroll in the Windows 10 Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) program or buy a new PC that supports Windows 11.
Consumers can enroll in Extended Security Updates in one of the following three ways:
- At no additional cost if you are syncing your PC Settings using a Microsoft Account.
- By redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points.
- Through a one-time purchase of $30 USD or the local currency equivalent, plus applicable tax. The one-time purchase option is now live in the Microsoft Store here.
When a user joins the ESU program through any of the above methods, they will receive extended security updates until October 13, 2026. Users can join the ESU program at any time before the program ends on October 13, 2026. Furthermore, a single ESU license can be used on up to 10 devices.
To check whether you can enroll in the ESU program for your Windows 10 PC, please follow the steps below:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. Microsoft will display a link to enroll in ESU if your Windows 10 PC meets the requirements.
- If you are using a local Windows Account, Microsoft will prompt you to sign in to your Microsoft account.
- If you are not syncing your PC settings, you can start syncing; otherwise, you can redeem existing Microsoft Rewards or make a one-time purchase to enroll in ESU.
While upgrading to a new Windows 11 PC is Microsoft"s preferred path forward, the ESU program enables users on older hardware to remain secure for an additional year while they plan their transition to Windows 11.