Windows 11 has firmly established itself as the official successor to Windows 10. Over the years, it has received steady updates, new features, and performance optimizations to ensure smooth operation and strong compatibility with apps, services, and games. Thanks to this progress, many users have successfully transitioned from Windows 10 to Windows 11.
However, it’s important to note that official support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025. After this date, the OS will no longer receive updates, which could pose security and privacy risks for those who either can’t—or don’t want to—upgrade.
That said, Microsoft offers an alternative: the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. This initiative allows users to keep receiving critical patches even after support officially ends. Our friends at Central Windows have shared a detailed guide on how ESU works and how you can sign up to continue protecting your system.
What is the extended security updates program?
Microsoft knows that many users either can’t—or don’t want to—move to Windows 11. In fact, a large number of people are perfectly satisfied with what Windows 10 offers, especially in terms of stability and compatibility. To address this, the company introduced the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which ensures that these users continue to receive critical security patches.
It’s worth pointing out that ESU does not add new features, improvements, or upgrades. Its sole purpose is to deliver essential security updates, offering peace of mind to those who remain on Windows 10.
However, this program isn’t indefinite. ESU support will run only until October 13, 2026, meaning Windows 10 users essentially have one extra year beyond the official support deadline to plan their upgrade to Windows 11.
Additionally, the ESU program is available specifically for devices running Windows 10 version 22H2, giving them continued protection while they prepare for the transition to Microsoft’s latest operating system.
How to join the extended security updates program of Windows 10?
Now that you understand how Microsoft’s ESU initiative works, here’s how to enroll your device and extend Windows 10 support for another year. Keep in mind, eventually you will need to upgrade to Windows 11.
Steps to join the ESU program on Windows 10:
- Open Settings on your PC.
- Go to Update & Security.
- Click on Windows Update.
- Select Check for updates and install the latest update if needed.
- After installing, you should see the option to register for ESU appear.
- At the bottom of the page, you’ll notice a message stating that Windows 10 support will end in October 2025. Click Register now, then Next.
- Choose the option to register your PC, especially if you have multiple devices.
- Click Next and follow the on-screen instructions.
- When finished, click Done.
- Look for a confirmation message indicating your PC is now registered to receive Extended Security Updates.
Once completed, your device will continue receiving critical security updates until October 13, 2026.
