As the clock ticks down to the end-of-support date for Windows 10, Microsoft has made a strategic pivot, recognizing that a significant number of consumers are not yet ready to transition from their existing devices. In a recent announcement, the tech giant introduced new “free enrollment options” for its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, aiming to ease the financial burden on users who might otherwise hesitate to pay the annual fee for continued support.
The company’s latest blog post, while promoting the benefits of Windows 11 and encouraging businesses to upgrade or migrate to cloud solutions like Windows 365, also detailed the steps consumers can take to enroll in the ESU program without incurring costs. Users can opt to engage with Microsoft’s cloud-based Windows Backup or dedicate a few minutes to the Bing search engine over a week to qualify for the complimentary subscription.
How the sign-up process for consumers will work
According to Microsoft, an enrollment wizard will be accessible via Notifications and Settings, simplifying the process for users to sign up for ESU directly from their Windows 10 PCs. The enrollment options include:
- Utilizing Windows Backup to sync settings to the cloud.
- Redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points.
- Paying the fee (local pricing may vary).
Once an option is selected and the on-screen instructions are followed, users will be automatically enrolled. The ESU coverage for personal devices will extend from October 15, 2025, to October 13, 2026. The enrollment wizard is currently available in Windows Insider builds and is set to roll out to select Windows 10 PCs starting in July, with broader availability anticipated by mid-August.
It’s important to note that this offer is strictly for personal use, a move likely intended to prevent businesses from taking advantage of the discounted security updates. For small businesses operating outside a managed Microsoft environment, enforcing this restriction may prove challenging.
What’s the catch with the free options?
While using Windows Backup to sync settings may seem straightforward, it could lead to complications. The current implementation also transfers personal data to OneDrive, which could quickly consume the default 5GB of free storage if users have substantial data. Without a Microsoft 365 subscription or additional storage purchase, this could result in a cumbersome situation.
On the other hand, redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points offers a more manageable alternative. Users who have established a profile with their Microsoft Account in Edge may already have enough points. For those starting from scratch, accumulating points can be achieved by engaging with the Bing app and completing various tasks on the Microsoft Rewards site.
This recent announcement marks a significant shift for Microsoft, acknowledging that the number of active Windows 10 PCs may exceed initial projections as the end-of-support date approaches. While the new ESU options do not alter the official end-of-support timeline, they provide a temporary reprieve for cost-conscious consumers and give Microsoft an opportunity to mitigate potential public relations challenges as the deadline looms.
