Windows 10 users can now access free security updates until October 2026. This opportunity allows personal computer users to remain secure despite the official support ending for Windows 10. To take advantage of this offer, users must enroll using a Microsoft account.
Key Details of Windows 10 Security Updates
The deadline for free security updates is October 13, 2026, one year past the original end-of-support date. Here are the essential points regarding the eligibility and enrollment process:
- Eligibility: Any personal Windows 10 PC running version 22H2, including Home, Professional, Pro Education, and Workstation editions.
- Ineligibility: Enterprise editions and devices joined to an Active Directory domain are not eligible.
- Geographical Availability: Customers in the 30 EEA countries qualify automatically without needing a Microsoft account.
Enrollment Process
To enroll for Extended Security Updates (ESU), users must follow these steps:
- Sign in with an administrator Microsoft account.
- Navigate to Settings > Windows Update.
- Click “Enroll now” to initiate the process.
For Windows 10 users without a Microsoft account or who haven’t used Windows Backup previously, additional steps may be required. Alternatively, users can redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points as a legitimate method for enrollment.
Business Customers and ESU Costs
Business users face different conditions. Enterprise customers are not eligible for free subscriptions. They must purchase a commercial ESU, which starts at $61 per device annually and increases in cost each subsequent year.
Optimizing Free Enrollment Options in Europe
European users see the most straightforward eligibility criteria. Those located in EEA countries qualify for free ESUs without the need for a Microsoft account. This approach is aimed at benefiting consumers under the Euroconsumers Group guidelines.
As the availability of free updates signifies an acknowledgment of the number of Windows 10 machines still actively in use, it provides users additional time to transition to more permanent solutions post-2026.
To ensure you benefit from these updates, regularly verify eligibility and ensure all device settings are current. Failure to see enrollment options may require waiting as long as a day or checking for system updates if the options do not appear immediately.
