The impending end-of-support date for Windows 10 has prompted Microsoft to introduce new options for users of the operating system. As the summer months unfolded, it became increasingly clear that many consumers were not prepared to transition from their Windows 10 devices, nor were they inclined to pay the fee for a one-year Extended Security Updates (ESU) subscription. In a surprising turn, Microsoft announced at the end of June that it would offer “free enrollment options” for the ESU program, allowing users to secure essential updates without incurring costs.
For those willing to engage with Microsoft’s cloud-based Windows Backup or dedicate a few minutes to using the Bing search engine over a week, the path to free updates has been made accessible through an enrollment wizard. This initiative aims to alleviate the burden on tens of millions of consumers who find themselves unable to upgrade to Windows 11 due to compatibility issues.
Details of this announcement were somewhat obscured within a lengthy Windows Blog post that primarily extolled the virtues of Windows 11 while encouraging users to consider upgrading their devices or exploring cloud-based alternatives like Windows 365. However, a significant development emerged just weeks before the end-of-support date: Microsoft confirmed that customers in the 30 countries of the European Economic Area (EEA) would automatically qualify for free ESU subscriptions, streamlining the process for a substantial number of users.
Eligibility for Free Updates
The eligibility criteria for the ESU subscription have been clarified. Any personal Windows 10 PC running version 22H2, including Home, Professional, Pro Education, and Workstation editions, with the latest updates installed, can enroll. However, Enterprise and Education editions are excluded from this offer. Additionally, devices joined to an Active Directory domain or managed by Mobile Device Management software will not qualify.
To enroll, users must be signed in with an administrator account, and for most, a Microsoft account is required. Notably, users in EEA countries are exempt from this requirement, simplifying the process for them. While the ESU program is currently limited to select markets, it appears to encompass the U.S. and EEA, with further details on other regions yet to be disclosed.
Enrollment Process
For those eager to take advantage of the ESU offer, the enrollment process is straightforward. Users can find the sign-up link within the Settings under Windows Update. Upon clicking “Enroll now,” the enrollment wizard will guide them through the necessary steps. If already signed in with a Microsoft account and having utilized Windows Backup, users may find the process seamless.
However, for those using a local account or who have not previously engaged with Windows Backup, additional steps will be required. The simplest method involves syncing settings to the cloud via Windows Backup, but users should be aware that this may lead to storage limitations if they exceed the default 5GB offered by OneDrive.
Alternative Options and Considerations
Alternatively, users can redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points or pay the fee for the subscription. For those who have accumulated points through various Microsoft services, this could be a viable option. However, for new users, accumulating points may require some effort, including engaging with the Bing app or completing quizzes on the Microsoft Rewards site.
Despite the introduction of these free options, Microsoft’s announcements reflect a significant shift in strategy, acknowledging the larger-than-anticipated number of Windows 10 PCs still in operation. While the end-of-support date remains unchanged, these new ESU options provide a temporary reprieve for consumers, allowing them to navigate the transition period with greater ease.
