Windows 10 Extended Security Updates Archives

Winsage

August 12, 2025

Windows 10 KB5063709 update fixes extended security updates enrollment

Microsoft has released the KB5063709 cumulative update for Windows 10 versions 22H2 and 21H2, addressing a critical bug that prevented users from enrolling in extended security updates. This mandatory update includes Microsoft's July 2025 Patch Tuesday security updates, resolving one zero-day vulnerability and 136 other flaws. After installation, Windows 10 version 22H2 will be upgraded to build 19045.6216, and version 21H2 will transition to build 19044.6216. Users can manually check for updates in Settings under Windows Update, and they can also download the update from the Microsoft Update Catalog. Key changes and fixes in the KB5063709 update include: - Fixed an issue affecting the Windows 10 Extended Security Updates enrollment wizard. - Updated enhancements to Country and Operator Settings Asset profiles. - Introduced the capability to deploy SKUSiPolicy VBS Anti-rollback protections via Secure Boot. - Fixed stability issues on certain devices following the May 2025 security update. - Fixed issues with the Microsoft Changjie Input Method, emoji panel search functionality, and phonetic input methods for Hindi and Marathi keyboards. Microsoft has confirmed there are no known issues associated with this update.

Winsage

July 29, 2025

Microsoft mysteriously offered a Windows 11 upgrade to this unsupported Windows 10 PC — despite it failing to meet the “non-negotiable” TPM 2.0 requirement

Microsoft launched Windows 11 in 2021, facing criticism for its minimum system requirements and design flaws compared to Windows 10. Windows 11 recently surpassed Windows 10, capturing a 50.88% share of the desktop operating system market. An unusual incident reported by BornCity indicated that Microsoft offered an upgrade to Windows 11 for unsupported hardware, despite its strict requirement for a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 for security. Microsoft has not changed its requirements and continues to promote Windows 11, especially as support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025. Users can enroll in the Windows 10 Extended Security Updates program for a fee or sync settings with a Microsoft Account for an additional year of free updates. The Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) has petitioned Microsoft to reconsider ending support for Windows 10, warning of potential increases in discarded computers, but Microsoft has shown little inclination to reverse its decision or relax Windows 11's hardware requirements.

Winsage

July 9, 2025

Can’t quit Windows 10? Here’s how to keep getting security updates after October 2025

Microsoft has introduced a one-year Extended Security Update (ESU) subscription for consumers, available for a fee. Additionally, two free enrollment options have been made available: syncing settings to the cloud using Windows Backup and redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points. The ESU subscription is limited to personal use and cannot be renewed after the initial year, with security updates ending on October 13, 2026. The enrollment wizard for consumers will start rolling out in July, with full availability by the end of August.

Winsage

June 25, 2025

How to get Windows 10 extended security updates for free: 2 options

Microsoft has introduced new "free enrollment options" for its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10, aimed at assisting consumers who are not ready to transition to new devices. Users can enroll without incurring costs by utilizing Windows Backup to sync settings to the cloud, redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points, or paying a fee. The ESU coverage for personal devices will extend from October 15, 2025, to October 13, 2026. The enrollment wizard will be accessible via Notifications and Settings on Windows 10 PCs, starting in July with broader availability expected by mid-August. This offer is strictly for personal use, and complications may arise from syncing personal data to OneDrive.

Winsage

June 24, 2025

Windows 10 users can get extended security updates for 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points

Microsoft is ending support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, and is offering a one-year subscription to Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for a fee. Users can also redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points for an ESU. The ESU will provide essential bug fixes, security updates, and technical support until October 13, 2026. Microsoft will continue to deliver security updates for MS 365 applications and Windows Defender until October 2028. Enrollment in the ESU program can be done through notifications and the Windows Settings menu, with a rollout to the general public starting in July and reaching widespread availability by mid-August. Windows 11, released in 2021, has received positive feedback and aims to address user concerns regarding usability and aesthetics.

Winsage

June 24, 2025

Microsoft Offers Free Windows 10 Extended Security Updates — Under One Condition

Microsoft is phasing out Windows 10 in October 2025, and users will lose security support unless they opt for an annual extended security update. However, Microsoft has introduced a free alternative that allows users to maintain security updates by activating cloud backup linked to their OneDrive accounts. As of May 2025, Windows 10 accounts for over 53% of installations. Users with a Microsoft account receive 5GB of free OneDrive storage, which may be insufficient for backup needs, potentially requiring a subscription for additional storage. Starting in July 2025, Microsoft will launch a sign-up wizard for the Extended Security Updates program, providing updates until October 13, 2026, with businesses able to purchase up to three additional years of updates. The transition to Windows 11 has been challenging, with many users reluctant to upgrade due to hardware issues and unpopular decisions.

Winsage

June 24, 2025

Microsoft makes Windows 10 extended security updates free, but there’s a catch

Microsoft is offering a year of free security updates for Windows 10, requiring users to activate Windows Backup, which syncs settings and folders to the cloud via OneDrive. Users with extensive local files may need to purchase additional OneDrive storage. Alternatively, users can pay a fee or redeem 1,000 Microsoft Reward points for the updates. An enrollment wizard will be introduced in July to assist users in selecting their preferred option. Extended security updates will be available until October 13, 2026, and businesses can purchase up to three years of updates. The offer also extends to Windows 10 devices accessing Windows 11 Cloud PCs through Windows 365 and Virtual Machines. Microsoft is encouraging users to transition to Windows 11, as approximately 37 percent of Steam users still operate on Windows 10, with increased notifications expected as the end of support deadline approaches.

Winsage

June 24, 2025

Stay secure with Windows 11, Copilot+ PCs and Windows 365 before support ends for Windows 10

Windows has been the most widely used operating system globally since its launch in 1985, currently powering over a billion active devices each month. Support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025, meaning Microsoft will stop providing security and feature updates, as well as technical support for Windows 10 PCs. Users can check their eligibility for upgrading to Windows 11 through the Settings menu or the PC Health Check app. Windows 11 features enhanced security, improved performance, and a modern user interface, with built-in accessibility tools and AI capabilities. The Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program will provide critical security updates for personal devices from October 15, 2025, to October 13, 2026. Organizations can subscribe to ESU for continued security updates for a year, with the option to renew annually. Windows 365 offers a cloud-based solution for transitioning to Windows 11 without needing to replace all devices immediately. Various Windows 11 and Copilot+ PCs are available from partners like Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, Lenovo, Samsung, and Surface.

Winsage

May 14, 2025

Windows 10 and Microsoft 365 support deadlines changed? This story just won’t die

Support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025. After this date, Microsoft 365 Apps will continue to function on Windows 10 devices, but Microsoft recommends upgrading to Windows 11 to avoid potential performance issues. Microsoft will provide security updates for Microsoft 365 Apps on Windows 10 for three years after the end of support, ending on October 10, 2028. However, Microsoft will not test new releases on Windows 10 after the end-of-support date. Support for Microsoft 365 Apps on Windows 10 will have limitations, including advising upgrades to Windows 11 for issues that do not occur on Windows 11, limited troubleshooting assistance for customers unable to upgrade, and no option to log bugs or request additional updates. These support options do not apply to consumers using the Personal and Family editions of Microsoft 365.

Winsage

May 13, 2025

Windows 10 M365 apps to get security fixes into 2028

Microsoft will provide security updates for Windows 10 users until October 10, 2028, despite the end of official support on October 14, 2025. Microsoft 365 subscribers on Windows 10 will continue to receive security patches for applications like Word and Excel, but support will be limited to troubleshooting for those unable to upgrade to Windows 11. If issues arise that are exclusive to Microsoft 365 apps on Windows 10 and do not occur on Windows 11, users will be encouraged to upgrade. Transitioning to Windows 11 has faced resistance due to hardware requirements, particularly affecting users of older Surface devices. As of now, Windows 10 holds a 53 percent global desktop market share, while Windows 11 has 44 percent.