Microsoft is preparing to retire Windows 10, with support officially ending on October 14. This transition marks a significant shift for users still relying on older desktop and laptop models, as the cessation of security patches and feature updates poses potential risks. While devices compatible with Windows 11 can upgrade at no cost, many older systems may lack the necessary specifications for this transition. Users will still have access to their Windows 10 PCs post-deadline; however, the absence of crucial updates could expose them to vulnerabilities, with Canalys Research estimating that around 240 million Windows 10 users might be at risk from actively exploited vulnerabilities.
For those wishing to extend their Windows 10 experience, Microsoft offers an option for an additional year of support updates. This can be obtained either by paying or by agreeing to back up data to Microsoft’s servers. While this choice may seem reasonable, it does require users to either trust Microsoft with their personal information or incur a potential cost if they exceed the free OneDrive storage limit.
Alternatively, there is a free method to secure Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 10. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:
How to sign up for Windows 10 Extended Security Updates for free
- Ensure your PC is up to date by navigating to the Settings menu, selecting System, then About, and confirming that you are running the latest version of Windows 10.
- While in the Settings menu, verify that you are logged into the administrator account, which can be found under the Your Info section.
- Select Update & Security from the Settings menu. Look for the banner stating “Windows 10 support ends in October 2025,” and click the Enroll Now sign-up link. If this option is not visible, your computer may need an update.
- Choose your enrollment method. For the free option, select Back up your PC settings. Note that this will require linking your Windows login to Microsoft’s cloud services, which you may have already done if you use OneDrive, Office 365, or similar services.
- Keep in mind that the free backup only covers the first 5GB of storage. If your data exceeds this limit, you will need to purchase a larger cloud storage plan, starting at per month for the most basic option.
- Decide what data you want to back up in the OneDrive menu within Settings.
- Once ready, sign in, and a prompt will appear asking if you want to “Add this device to receive Extended Security Updates.” Select Add Device to complete your enrollment, and click Done.
By following these steps, you can secure an additional 12 months of protection for your Windows 10 PC, allowing you the time to consider an upgrade to one of the latest Windows laptops, such as the Dell XPS 13, renowned for its portability and battery life. For budget-conscious users, the Acer Aspire Go 15 stands out as a feature-rich option under 0.