FREE Windows 10 Extended Security Updates Until 2027? Here's What You Need to Know!

Microsoft has extended the Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program until October 12, 2027, offering a temporary security bridge for users. Existing enrollees will automatically receive the extension. This program provides critical and important security updates but excludes new features, cosmetic improvements, non-security fixes, and general technical support. Normal Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025, and this ESU program does not bring back normal support.

To qualify for the ESU program, your computer must be running Windows 10 version 22H2 or higher, be fully updated, and be one of the eligible editions (Home, Pro, Pro Education, Pro for Workstations). The Microsoft account used for enrollment must be an administrator account. Enrollment options in the US include synchronizing your computer via Windows Backup (free), redeeming 1,000 Microsoft reward points, or a one-time purchase of $30 plus tax. One ESU license covers up to 10 machines under the same Microsoft account.

Before enrolling, back up important files, ensure Windows is activated (Settings > Update & Security > Activation), and install all available Windows updates. Restart your computer and check for updates until it's fully up to date. Once prepared, go to the Windows Update page, and if your computer qualifies, you should see an 'Extended security update' section with an 'Enroll now' option.

Click 'Enroll now' on the Windows Update page. If you use a local account, you'll be prompted to sign in with a Microsoft account. Choose your preferred enrollment plan (Windows Backup, reward points, or purchase). Be cautious with Windows Backup to avoid unwanted OneDrive synchronization. After enrollment, verify extended support until 2027. If you wish to revert to a local account, go to Settings > Accounts > Your info, and select 'Sign in with a local account instead'.

If the 'Enroll now' option is missing, ensure Winver shows Windows 10 version 22H2, all Windows updates are installed, Windows is activated, and you're running an eligible version. Also, check Settings > Accounts > Access work or school to confirm your computer isn't connected to an organization, as this prevents ESU enrollment. Avoid using unofficial ESU activators or scripts; let Microsoft's update process naturally resolve the issue.

Windows 10 will continue to function after the ESU expiration, but without security updates, increasing vulnerability. You can enroll anytime until October 2027. ESU only covers Windows security patches; other software (web browsers, Microsoft Office) has separate update schedules and may become incompatible. One ESU enrollment covers all users on a machine. Reinstalling Windows will likely require re-enrolling in ESU after updating to 22H2.

Users have several options: continue using Windows 10 with ESU (and beyond if willing to risk unsupported status), upgrade to Windows 11 (if hardware supports it or using tools like Rufus, with driver considerations), or replace the computer with a new Windows 11 machine. Another alternative is to switch to a Linux-based operating system, which can be a viable choice for basic users seeking to avoid Microsoft's ecosystem and hardware requirements.