As the clock ticks down to October 14, 2025, Windows 10 users are faced with an important decision regarding the future of their operating system. With support for Windows 10 set to expire, the absence of security updates poses a significant risk, leaving systems vulnerable to new threats. However, for those who prefer to remain with Windows 10—whether due to personal preference or hardware limitations—there are options available to extend support for an additional year, pushing the deadline to October 2026.
Options for Extended Support
Microsoft has introduced a few pathways for users to secure this extra year of support, a program that was previously exclusive to businesses. Here are the available options:
- Sync Your Settings to OneDrive: This is a no-cost option that many users may find appealing. By syncing your PC settings to OneDrive through the Windows Backup app, you can receive an additional year of support without any financial commitment. It’s important to note that only your settings need to be synced; there’s no requirement to back up all your data, alleviating concerns about sharing personal information.
- Utilize Microsoft Rewards: For those who have accumulated Microsoft Rewards points through activities like using Bing or shopping at the Microsoft Store, these points can be redeemed to cover the cost of the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. The price for this option is 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points.
- Pay : If you prefer not to sync your settings or don’t have enough rewards points, you can opt to pay for the additional year of support. However, a Microsoft account will still be necessary to complete this process.
How to Sign Up for Extended Security Updates
Signing up for the ESU program is straightforward. Users can navigate to the Windows Update panel by searching for ‘Windows Update’ in the taskbar. Once there, an option to ‘Enroll now’ for Extended Security Updates may appear on the right side of the screen. It’s worth noting that this feature is being rolled out gradually, so some users might not see it immediately. Microsoft has assured that the enrollment wizard will be accessible to all Windows 10 PCs before the support deadline, likely appearing in September.
Take Action Before It’s Too Late
It is crucial for Windows 10 users to take proactive steps regarding their operating system. Remaining on Windows 10 without updates after October 2025 is not advisable, as the risk of security vulnerabilities will only increase over time. For those who are not inclined to pursue extended updates or upgrade to Windows 11, exploring alternative platforms, such as a Linux distribution, may be a viable option.
