Windows 10 Support Ends, But There’s a Free Path to Security for One More Year
Today marks a milestone in the Windows ecosystem: Microsoft has moved Windows 10 to end-of-life status. That means security updates won’t be released by default. For many users, this raises the question: how can I keep my PC safe without upgrading right away? The answer, for a growing cohort of users in the US and beyond, is Extended Security Updates (ESU) — a program that can buy you another 12 months of important security protections while you plan your next move.
What ESU Does and Why It Matters
ESU is not a feature update. It’s a safety net that delivers critical security fixes and bug patches, helping to protect Windows 10 from newly discovered threats. Without those updates, older machines can become easier targets for malware and ransomware. For many users, ESU buys time to evaluate hardware compatibility, budget for a new PC, or confirm if Windows 11 will run smoothly on their device.
Two Paths: Free ESU vs. Paid Extension
Microsoft historically offered a paid ESU after the standard support window closed. However, a free pathway has emerged for Windows 10 users in the United States. If you’re eligible, you can enroll at no cost, extending security updates for an additional year. European users also had access to a free option in some circumstances, but availability can vary by region. Check your Settings to confirm what’s offered for you.
How to Check If You Qualify
Start by confirming your current Windows 10 status: go to Settings > System > About to verify your version. If you’re still on Windows 10 and want to stay protected, you’ll want to install the latest updates first. Then sign in with an administrator account (the account labeled Administrator under your name) to access ESU enrollment options.
Step-By-Step: Enrolling in ESU (Free Path)
- Open Settings > Update & Security. If you see an a0Enroll Nowa0link, click it. You may also be prompted to upgrade to Windows 11 if your hardware qualifies.
- If you don’t see the link, ensure you’ve installed the latest Windows 10 updates and try again.
- Choose how you want to enroll. The simplest route is to back up your PC before proceeding. Backups can be created using built-in tools or trusted third-party software.
- Sign into a Microsoft account during the enrollment process. In the US, the free ESU option connects your Windows login to Microsoft’s cloud services. This is a common requirement for the free path.
- Review storage implications. The free ESU backup often covers the first 5 GB of cloud storage. If you need more space, you may choose paid OneDrive options, or selectively back up only essential data to stay under the free limit.
- Confirm the device enrollment. You’ll see an option like “Add this device to receive Extended Security Updates.” Click Add Device, then Done.
What Happens After Enrollment?
Once enrolled, your Windows 10 PC will continue to receive security updates for about a year from today. This window gives you breathing room to explore upgrades, verify compatibility with Windows 11, or evaluate alternative operating systems. Remember, ESU is a safety net, not a forever upgrade solution.
Planning Your Next Move
With ESU in place, you can take a calmer approach to your next steps. If your device meets Windows 11 requirements, upgrading is free and can be a straightforward option. If not, consider a new PC with Windows 11 preinstalled, or evaluate alternatives like macOS or ChromeOS depending on your needs.
Final Take
Windows 10’s end of life doesn’t have to mean panic. ESU provides a legitimate, often free, path to extended security for 12 more months. Use this time to plan, back up now, and decide whether to upgrade to Windows 11 or migrate to another platform. If anything changes with ESU availability next year, we’ll keep you updated with practical steps.
