If the impending end of support for Windows 10 has been a source of anxiety, particularly with the deadline approaching this October, there is now a silver lining for users wishing to delay their transition to Windows 11. Microsoft has recently updated its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, providing a pathway for an additional year of updates at no cost.
Extended Security Updates Program
Previously, users could secure an extra year of updates for a fee of . However, in a surprising turn, Microsoft has made this option available for free. To take advantage of this offer, individual users need only to activate Windows Backup. This feature, which regularly saves a backup of your files and settings, is straightforward to enable and requires just a few clicks in the settings menu. Users can also customize what data is included in the backup process.
In addition to the ESU program, Microsoft Rewards points can be accrued through various activities, such as purchases made in the Microsoft Store or the Xbox app. For those who are resourceful, these points might even be found in unexpected places, like the depths of a couch or the footwells of a car.
For those contemplating alternatives to Windows 11, some users have found success in transitioning to Linux on their previously Windows 10 machines. While Linux offers a viable solution, it may not cater to every need and can present a learning curve for new users. If Linux does not appeal to you and Windows 11 feels like a leap too far, considering a switch to a Mac could be the next best option. Thankfully, with the extra year of support for Windows 10, users have more time to weigh their options and make an informed decision about their next operating system.
