Particle.news
Download on the App Store
26 ARTICLES
·
2h ago

Windows 10 Support Ends Tomorrow as Microsoft Urges Last‑Minute ESU Enrollment

Enrolling in Microsoft’s one-year ESU keeps vulnerable Windows 10 machines patched.

Windows 10
Windows 11 Start menu
Image
Image

Overview

  • Microsoft stops delivering free security updates and feature fixes to Windows 10 on October 14, though PCs will continue to run without new patches.
  • A one‑year Extended Security Updates program is available via Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, with enrollment options that include a free path by backing up settings to OneDrive, redeeming Microsoft Rewards points, or paying a fee.
  • Windows Central reports EEA users can enroll for free without cloud sync and notes Microsoft requires signing in with a Microsoft account at least once every 60 days to stay eligible through October 2026.
  • Forbes confirms users can still join ESU after the deadline, but machines remain unprotected until enrollment completes, at which point missed updates will install.
  • Estimates suggest hundreds of millions of PCs remain on Windows 10, many unable to upgrade to Windows 11, and experts advise backing up data, watching for scams, and planning an upgrade or secure decommissioning.