The impending conclusion of the Windows 10 era is drawing near, with Microsoft set to cease support for the operating system in October 2025. This transition marks a significant moment, as Windows 10 has remained the most widely adopted version of Windows, holding a commanding 53% share of installations as of May 2025. With millions of users facing the prospect of losing security support, Microsoft has introduced a new option to ease this transition.
Initially, the tech giant offered an extended security update for a fee of for an additional year. However, in a move that may be welcomed by many, Microsoft has now rolled out a complimentary alternative. To take advantage of this free option, users must utilize cloud backup services and link their accounts to OneDrive.
This development is particularly noteworthy, as it provides a financial reprieve for users who wish to remain on Windows 10 without incurring extra costs. Yet, the reliance on OneDrive presents a potential hurdle. While every Microsoft account includes 5GB of free storage, some users may find their backup needs exceed this limit. As highlighted by The Verge, those requiring more space will need to consider a subscription plan, which starts at .99 per month for 100GB. Even so, this annual expense remains less than the previously proposed fee for extended security updates, though it may still evoke frustration among some users.
How to get Windows 10 security updates for free
According to a recent blog post from Microsoft, users will have three distinct options for maintaining their Windows 10 systems while still receiving essential security updates. Starting in July, Microsoft plans to launch a sign-up wizard for the Extended Security Updates program, providing users with the chance to secure updates until October 13, 2026. Businesses will have the added flexibility to purchase up to three years of additional updates.
This initiative, while not a permanent fix, offers consumers valuable time to transition to Windows 11. The journey has been challenging for Microsoft, as many users have shown reluctance to upgrade their existing hardware. Despite the numerous enhancements and differences between the two operating systems, a series of unpopular decisions and compatibility issues with Windows 11 have contributed to the prolonged lifespan of Windows 10, allowing it to remain a staple in the computing landscape far longer than anticipated.
