Windows 10 Reaches End of Life: What That Means
Today marks a milestone for Windows 10 users: Microsoft moves the operating system to end-of-life status. While your PC will continue to boot and run, it will stop receiving important security updates by default. That gap leaves your device more vulnerable to malware and exploits over time.
For many households and small setups, the question isn’t just “Is my PC supported?” but “What’s the safest, simplest path to stay protected while deciding on a future upgrade?”
Three Paths to Stay Secure After Today
There are three main options to keep Windows devices secure after Windows 10 ends its mainstream support. Each path has its own trade-offs.
- Upgrade to Windows 11 for free: If your hardware is compatible, this is the most straightforward path. You’ll stay within the Windows ecosystem and receive ongoing security updates.
- Buy a new PC with Windows 11 or switch platforms: A fresh machine or a different OS (Mac or Chromebook) can be appealing for long-term reliability and features.
- Extended Security Updates (ESU) for one more year: The focus of this guide. ESU gives you a temporary security patch window while you plan a longer-term transition.
Why ESU Is Still a Viable Option
Extended Security Updates extend critical security patches for Windows 10 for an additional 12 months. Microsoft originally hinted at a paid 12-month extension, but a free path has emerged for many US users, making ESU an accessible bridge rather than a costly stopgap.
Choosing ESU buys you time to evaluate hardware readiness, budget for a Windows 11 upgrade, or explore alternative devices without sacrificing basic security in the immediate term.
How to Check If Your PC Qualifies for ESU (and What to Do Next)
Step 1: Verify your current version — Open Settings, go to System > About, and confirm you’re on Windows 10. If updates are pending, apply them to ensure you are on the latest build before enrolling.
Step 2: Use an administrator account — If you share the PC, sign in with the primary Administrator account so you can access enrollment options.
Step 3: Look for Windows 11 upgrade eligibility — If you see a Windows 11 upgrade prompt, upgrading now is a solid option. If not, proceed with ESU steps.
Step 4: Enroll in ESU — Open Settings > Update & Security, then select the Enroll Now option. If you don’t see it, update Windows 10 to the latest version to refresh enrollment options.
Step 5: Choose an enrollment method — The easiest method backs up your PC settings, and you’ll be prompted to add the device to receive ESU. Note that in the US, free ESU may require joining Microsoft’s cloud services; non-US users may see fewer restrictions.
Step 6: Prepare for the next steps — Either back up your files (recommended) or ensure you have a recovery plan if things go awry. The free ESU path typically covers the first 5 GB of OneDrive-backed backups; you can tailor backups to fit the free tier, then expand later if needed.
What If You Don’t Enroll in ESU?
Without ESU, Windows 10 will still run, but you’ll miss critical security patches and fixes. That makes your system a bigger target for attacks over time. ESU is designed as a transition tool, giving you breathing room to arrange a future upgrade without rushing into a rushed decision.
Next Steps and What to Expect
If you decide to upgrade to Windows 11, check hardware compatibility and ensure your key apps will run on the newer OS. If you opt for ESU, monitor notifications from Microsoft for any changes to eligibility or pricing in your region. And if you’re considering a hardware refresh, think about future-proofing with a device that meets Windows 11 requirements for a smoother upgrade path.
Bottom line: Windows 10 is not dead, but its security updates are. ESU offers a free, practical bridge for many users, helping you stay protected while you plan your next move.
