Microsoft Just Made Windows 10’s $30 Extended Support Program an Even Better Deal — But You Need a Microsoft Account to Pay For It

Microsoft has announced that enrolling a Windows 10 PC into the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program will now require a Microsoft Account, alongside a fee. However, there is a silver lining: a single ESU license can cover up to 10 devices linked to the same account, making the overall cost more manageable than initially anticipated. This detail, unfortunately, was not highlighted in Microsoft’s earlier communications.

This development brings a mix of good and bad news for users. On one hand, the license fee becomes significantly more appealing when it can be applied across multiple devices. On the other hand, the necessity of creating a Microsoft Account may frustrate those who have opted out of this requirement until now. A Microsoft support document clearly states:

“All enrollment options provide extended security updates through October 13, 2026. You will need to sign into your Microsoft account in order to enroll in ESU. You’ll be given these options to choose from when you enroll in the ESU program. You can use your existing ESU license on up to 10 devices.”

The enrollment options available include:

• One-time purchase of USD
• 1,000 Microsoft Reward points
• Free if you sync your PC settings to OneDrive

This requirement may not sit well with many Windows 10 users who have avoided creating a Microsoft Account thus far. Conversely, it could be a welcome change for those already utilizing an account across multiple devices needing protection.

The rationale behind this requirement is to bind the ESU license to the Microsoft Account, allowing it to be applicable on up to 10 devices. Users will still need to manually enroll each PC in the ESU program, but they can rest assured that they won’t incur the fee for each device.

You can enroll your Windows 10 PC from today

The enrollment window for the ESU program opened in July and is gradually being made available to all Windows 10 users running the latest updates. To enroll, users can navigate to Windows Update and click the “Enroll now” button when it appears. If the button is not visible yet, there’s no need for concern; the rollout is occurring in phases.

To enroll your PC, follow these steps:

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. If your device meets the prerequisites, you’ll see a link to enroll in ESU.
2. Select Enroll now to begin the ESU enrollment. If you are signed in with a local account, you will be prompted to log into your Microsoft account. If you are already backing up your PC settings, a prompt to enroll will appear.
3. If you aren’t backing up your Windows settings, you can choose to start backing them up, redeem Rewards, or make a one-time purchase to enroll in ESU.

What are your thoughts on Windows 10’s ESU program? Let us know in the comments.

Thanks for the tip, Robert!