Microsoft has taken a step towards enhancing user experience with its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10, offering more flexibility than many anticipated. According to a support document recently uncovered by Windows Central, the consumer version of the ESU licenses will be linked to personal Microsoft accounts, allowing users to utilize the same license across a maximum of 10 devices.
In an FAQ, Microsoft elaborated, “You can use your ESU license on up to 10 devices once you enroll in ESU. Any additional Windows 10 PC you wish to enroll in ESU must meet the eligibility requirements.” This approach not only simplifies the enrollment process but also caters to households with multiple Windows 10 PCs.
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Enrollment in the consumer ESU program has become more accessible, as users may not need to pay the initially proposed fee of . Microsoft now presents two complimentary options: syncing PC settings via the Windows Backup app or redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Reward points. Notably, individuals with multiple Windows 10 PCs will find that they do not have to enroll each device separately.
Once a Windows 10 PC is enrolled in the ESU program through their Microsoft account, users can easily add another device by navigating to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. Here, they simply select “Enroll now” and follow the prompts to integrate the new device into the ESU framework.
The consumer ESU program will extend security updates for Windows 10 until October 13, 2026. To qualify for enrollment, devices must be running the latest update for Windows 10, version 22H2, and the Microsoft account used must have administrator privileges.
It is important to note that the consumer ESU program is not applicable to commercial devices. Organizations will incur a fee of per device for one year of updates, with the option to renew for up to three years, albeit at an increasing cost each year.
