Overview

• Routine security and feature updates for Windows 10 stop on October 14, though PCs will keep working and become increasingly exposed to new vulnerabilities.
• Consumers can extend protection through October 13, 2026 by enrolling in ESU via Windows Update, with free options that include backing up settings to OneDrive within 5GB or redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points, or by paying a one-time $30 fee.
• Enrollment generally requires Windows 10 version 22H2, an administrator account, a Microsoft account link, and, per Microsoft guidance cited by Windows Central, a sign-in at least every 60 days to remain eligible.
• Microsoft says Defender Antivirus will continue receiving malware definition updates until 2028, but ESU is the only path to critical Windows 10 security patches after today.
• Hundreds of millions still use Windows 10, with estimates of roughly 40% of Windows desktops and about 200 million PCs unable to upgrade to Windows 11, prompting experts’ warnings to back up data and watch for scams targeting unpatched systems.