Windows 10 Reaches End of Life, but There’s a Free ESU Path Ahead
Microsoft has moved Windows 10 into its end-of-life phase as of October 14. That means Windows 10 PCs will still run, but they won’t receive important security updates by default. If you’re sticking with Windows 10 for a while longer, there’s a practical, budget-friendly option to keep your system secure: the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. In many regions, a free path now exists to enroll in ESU for an additional year.
Why ESU Matters—and What It Covers
Without security patches, your PC becomes progressively more vulnerable to malware and exploits. ESU workflows provide critical security updates for Windows 10 post-end-of-life, allowing you to stay protected while you plan a longer-term upgrade to Windows 11 or another platform. You’ll still want to pursue an upgrade—Windows 11 if your device is compatible, or a new PC with Windows 11 pre-installed—but ESU buys you valuable time without paying extra.
Step-By-Step: How to Enroll in ESU for Free
Step 1: Check your current Windows 10 status
Go to Settings > System > About to confirm your Windows 10 version. Make sure you install any available Windows 10 updates to bring your system up to date before enrolling.
Step 2: Confirm you have an administrator account
If you share a PC, sign in with an administrator account. You’ll typically see “Administrator” under the user name, or verify under Settings > Your Info.
Step 3: See if Windows 11 is available for your device
If a Windows 11 upgrade option appears, you can upgrade for free. If not, proceed with ESU enrollment to secure another year of updates.
Step 4: Enroll in ESU
Open Settings > Update & Security, then look for an “Enroll Now” link. If you don’t see it, update to the latest Windows 10 updates first. You may see a prompt to upgrade to Windows 11 if eligible—you can accept that or continue with ESU.
Step 5: Choose your enrollment method
The simplest path is to back up your PC settings and data (free, though it takes time). Note that, in the US, the free ESU option ties your Windows login to Microsoft’s cloud services (OneDrive/365 ecosystem). If you prefer a local login, you may encounter restrictions that require a cloud-connected account. The free backup plan typically covers the first 5 GB of storage; larger backups may require OneDrive storage or paid options. Sign in with your administrator account, then follow the prompts to add the device for ESU enrollment by selecting “Add Device” and then “Done.”
Step 6: Verify the extension is active
After enrollment, Windows will continue to receive security updates for the ESU period, typically 12 months. You’ll want to monitor for any changes in policy or new guidance from Microsoft as you plan your upgrade path.
What to Do After ESU Expires
Start planning your upgrade to Windows 11 if your hardware supports it, or consider a new PC with Windows 11 pre-installed, Windows 11 on a Mac, or a Chromebook depending on your usage. Keeping safe during the transition should be your priority, and ESU is a practical bridging solution.
Important Considerations
- Always back up important files before enrolling in ESU or updating systemen
- ESU availability and specifics can vary by region, so confirm locally
- Free ESU may require linking to Microsoft’s cloud services in the US
Bottom Line
Windows 10 is not forever, but Extended Security Updates give you a free, official way to extend security for another year. It’s a smart bridge while you evaluate Windows 11 compatibility, plan hardware refreshes, or explore other operating systems. If anything changes next year, keep an eye on official Microsoft guidance for the latest options.
