How to get 1 year of free Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU)

Windows 10 reaches end of support on October 14, 2025. If you want to keep receiving critical security updates for another year, Microsoft provides an Extended Security Updates (ESU) option for eligible Windows 10 devices (consumer path is free in the US). Follow the steps below to enroll.

Quick facts

• ESU coverage runs through October 13, 2026 for enrolled devices.
• Requires Windows 10 version 22H2 (make sure all updates are installed).
• Enrollment ties to a Microsoft account (admin, not child account).
• ESU delivers only critical and important security updates — no feature updates or extended support.
• Official Microsoft info: Microsoft – Extended Security Updates

Step-by-step enrollment

1. Check your Windows version: Settings > System > About → confirm you’re on 22H2 and fully updated.
2. Sign in with an administrator Microsoft account (Settings > Your info).
3. If your device can upgrade to Windows 11, consider doing that (free when eligible). If not, continue.
4. Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and click the Enroll Now or ESU enrollment option. If you don’t see it, install pending Windows 10 updates first.
5. Choose the enrollment method (consumer options include cloud backup sign-in, redeeming Microsoft Rewards points, or paid purchase). Follow the on-screen wizard to add the device for ESU.

Important notes and caveats

• The free consumer option in the US may require linking your local login to a Microsoft cloud account and uses up to 5 GB of free OneDrive backup — disable items you don’t want backed up to stay under the free quota.
• Businesses and enterprises must use paid ESU licensing through Volume Licensing.
• ESU is a temporary safety net — plan to upgrade to Windows 11 or a new device before ESU expires.

Need help?

Reply in the comments of the tweet if you want me to check whether your PC model can run Windows 11 — include the model or the CPU and RAM and I’ll help.

Sources: Microsoft support pages on Extended Security Updates and Windows lifecycle.