As the countdown to the end of support for Windows 10 approaches on October 14th, discussions around the transition to Windows 11 have intensified. While the upgrade to Windows 11 is offered at no cost, many users are hesitant to make the switch due to concerns over device compatibility, potential upgrade issues, or simply a preference for the familiar interface of the older operating system. Fortunately, Microsoft has provided a safety net in the form of Extended Security Updates (ESU), which will be available for an additional year.
The rollout of the ESU wizard began a few months ago, but users encountered challenges when attempting to enroll. Reports indicated that clicking the “Enroll now” button would trigger a wizard that would load briefly before closing without any further guidance. Recent patch notes from July 2025 suggested that this issue had been addressed, but it appears that not all users experienced a complete resolution.
Recent Developments and User Experiences
In August 2025, an update (KB5063709) aimed to provide a more robust fix for the ESU wizard. While testing by WindowsLatest confirmed that the enrollment process was functioning correctly, some users reported that the “Enroll now” option was still absent from their systems. Microsoft has clarified that the rollout of the wizard is gradual, meaning that users with fully updated machines may need to wait a bit longer for the option to appear.
Enrolling in the ESU program is straightforward and offers several options for users looking to secure an extra year of support for Windows 10:
- Back up your PC’s settings to a Microsoft account to receive extended support at no charge.
- Utilize 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points, which can be earned through various activities such as shopping at the Microsoft Store, playing games on Xbox or Game Pass, using the Edge browser, or searching with Bing.
- Make a one-time payment of if you prefer not to create a Microsoft account.
Additionally, for those who are postponing the upgrade to Windows 11 due to hardware limitations—particularly the requirement for TPM 2.0 support—it’s worth noting that installation is still feasible on any machine running Windows 10. For those interested, detailed instructions are available for creating a USB installer for Windows 11 that bypasses hardware verification and the Microsoft account requirement.
As the deadline approaches, users are encouraged to explore their options and make informed decisions regarding their operating system preferences and support needs.
