Windows 10: Microsoft is set to conclude its support for Windows 10 this October, marking the end of an era for a platform that has served users since its launch in July 2015. Initially, the tech giant offered a paid Extended Security Update (ESU) option for , valid for one year. However, in a move that may ease the transition for many, Microsoft has now introduced a complimentary alternative—provided users back up their systems to OneDrive.
Options for Continued Support
Users will still have access to the original option or can opt to redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points to maintain updates until at least October 13, 2026. For businesses, there’s the possibility of extending support for up to three additional years through payment.
As of May 2025, nearly 53% of PCs are expected to still be running Windows 10, which means that millions could face the risk of losing official security patches if they do not take action. The introduction of the free OneDrive option offers a temporary reprieve, although it comes with certain limitations. The free tier of OneDrive provides only 5 GB of storage, which may not suffice for all users’ backup needs. Should the backup exceed this limit, an upgrade to a larger storage plan—approximately per month for 100 GB—would be necessary. While this option remains more economical than the fee, it may still frustrate some users who prefer a more straightforward solution.
In July 2025, Microsoft plans to launch the ESU sign-up wizard for eligible users. This tool will allow users to select between the free OneDrive synchronization, the rewards points redemption, or the annual plan, thereby streamlining the process of continuing security updates.
In essence, while the support for Windows 10 is drawing to a close, users now find themselves with a variety of options—one of which is free—to ensure they can continue receiving crucial security updates. This flexibility provides valuable time for users to strategize their transition to Windows 11.
