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Microsoft Extends Windows 10 Security Updates Free for Private Users

Registration opens in July through a built-in ESU wizard where users can choose cloud backup, redeem rewards points or pay a fee to enroll.

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Overview

  • Microsoft will end Windows 10 support on October 14, 2025, but private users can extend security updates for free until October 13, 2026.
  • From July, an ESU wizard in Windows 10 settings will guide users to activate Windows Backup or redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points to enroll.
  • The free option requires syncing data to OneDrive, where users receive 5 GB of complimentary storage before any additional cloud fees apply.
  • Business customers can subscribe to ESU for up to three years, extending patches until October 13, 2028, at $61 per device per year with rising fees in later terms.
  • Microsoft frames ESU as a short-term bridge to Windows 11, which offers a redesigned interface, performance enhancements and strengthened security.