Overview
- Microsoft updated its ESU policy on June 29 to prolong Extended Security Updates for private Windows 10 devices through October 12, 2027.
- Registered private users will receive automatic monthly security patches and Microsoft will not charge consumers for the additional year of ESU.
- Windows 11 follows a strict 24-month support cadence so Windows 11 24H2 will stop getting security updates on October 13, 2026 which creates separate upgrade deadlines for Windows 11 users.
- Users still on Windows 10—about 26% of PCs in May 2026—can enroll for ESU, must link devices to a Microsoft account to receive updates in some regions, or use Microsoft tools like Windows Update and the Media Creation Tool to move to supported Windows 11 releases.
- The extension buys consumers time to plan upgrades but also shifts timing pressures: enterprises continue to pay for ESU while home users must choose between staying on patched Windows 10 until 2027 or upgrading to keep pace with Windows 11 feature-version cycles.