Windows 10 reaches end of support on October 14, 2025. After that date, most PCs will no longer receive security or quality updates. Your computer will keep working, but risk rises over time. This page explains your options and how to stay protected (Microsoft)
Upgrade to Windows 11
If your PC meets requirements like TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot, you can upgrade for free and keep getting full updates. This is the best long-term path.
Replace the PC
New PCs ship with Windows 11 and modern security features. This is the simplest path if your system is older.
Use Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU)
ESU gives enrolled Windows 10, version 22H2 devices ongoing critical and important security updates after Oct 14, 2025. This is a bridge while you plan your upgrade. Consumer ESU runs through October 13, 2026.
Important: ESU only adds security updates. It does not add features or performance improvements.
ESU provides monthly critical and important security updates for Windows 10, version 22H2.
It is meant as a temporary bridge to Windows 11. Not a permanent solution.
Consumer ESU enrollment is available until the program ends on October 13, 2026. Additional extensions are not confirmed at this time. Upgrading to Windows 11 later is still allowed.
Open Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update, select Check for updates, install everything, and restart. Devices must be on Windows 10, version 22H2.
Confirm Settings → Accounts → Your info shows Administrator so you can enroll. (Admin rights are required.)
If your PC is eligible, upgrade to Windows 11 instead of using ESU. You can still upgrade later even if you enroll in ESU now.
Go to Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update and choose Enroll now when the ESU option appears. If you do not see it, install all updates and check again. All consumer enrollment options provide security updates through October 13, 2026. You must sign in with a Microsoft account to enroll. You can use your existing ESU license on up to 10 devices.
Windows Backup lets you sync Desktop, Documents, Pictures, Videos, and Music to OneDrive. A free Microsoft account includes 5 GB of OneDrive storage, and you can choose which folders to include. Open Start → search “backup” → Windows Backup, then toggle the folders and settings you want to back up.
Tip: You can manage or limit backup size in Settings → Accounts → Windows backup and turn off folders you do not want to sync.
Windows 10 reaches end of support on October 14, 2025.
After that date, Microsoft will stop releasing free updates, bug fixes, and security patches. Your PC will still work but becomes more vulnerable over time.
Extended Security Updates (ESU) are Microsoft’s way of keeping Windows 10 protected after support ends.
ESU provides critical and important security fixes for another year (through October 13, 2026) so your computer stays safe while you plan your next move.
Yes, in most cases. Microsoft now offers a free ESU enrollment option for U.S. and European home users who sign in with a Microsoft Account and enable Windows Backup. There’s also a paid option (about $30 per year) if you prefer not to link your computer to Microsoft’s cloud services. You also have an option to redeem Microsoft points.
The free ESU program extends security updates for 12 additional months, through October 13, 2026. After that, Microsoft may end updates entirely unless new programs are announced.
You must be running Windows 10 Version 22H2, the final major release.
To check:
Open Settings → System → About
Look under “Windows specifications”
Confirm it says Version 22H2
Follow these steps to enroll your PC:
Go to Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update
Click Check for updates and install everything available
When prompted, click Enroll now under the ESU program
Sign in with your Microsoft Account
Complete the setup and confirm Windows Backup is turned on If you don’t see the “Enroll now” button, make sure your PC is fully updated.
Yes. Microsoft’s free ESU option requires enabling Windows Backup, which connects to OneDrive. You get 5 GB of free storage, and you can choose which folders (Documents, Pictures, etc.) are backed up.
Yes, for the free ESU option.
Your Microsoft Account is what links Windows Backup and OneDrive to your PC for cloud-based protection. If you currently use a local account, you can switch by going to: Settings → Accounts → Your Info → Sign in with a Microsoft Account instead
If your PC is eligible, upgrading to Windows 11 is free and provides full support and updates through at least 2031. To check compatibility, download Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool: https://aka.ms/GetPCHealthCheckApp
You can continue using Windows 10 with ESU through October 2026. After that, you’ll need to replace your PC or switch to another system such as:
A refurbished Windows 11-ready PC
A Chromebook
A Mac
Or a Linux-based system if you’re comfortable with tech
Your PC will still work, but it will no longer receive critical security updates. This leaves your system more vulnerable to malware, ransomware, and data loss over time.
No. ESU does not reinstall or modify Windows, it simply keeps your current version protected with new security updates.
Yes. You can upgrade anytime after enrolling in ESU. Your Windows 10 license and activation will automatically carry over to Windows 11 when your PC is ready.
Only critical and important updates — those that fix major security vulnerabilities. ESU does not include new features, design changes, or performance improvements.
Yes. ESU is an official Microsoft program offered directly through Windows Update. It’s completely legitimate and designed to keep users protected during the transition away from Windows 10.
Keep Microsoft Defender antivirus turned on
Use a modern browser (Edge, Chrome, or Firefox)
Regularly back up your files
Avoid third-party “Windows 11 installers” or unofficial tools
Enroll in ESU as soon as possible
Official resources:
Windows 10 ESU overview: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/extended-security-updates
ESU technical overview: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/whats-new/extended-security-updates
How to use Windows Backup: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/back-up-and-restore-with-windows-backup-87a81f8a-78fa-456e-b521-ac0560e32338#id0ebh=windows_10
Windows 11 compatibility checker: https://aka.ms/GetPCHealthCheckApp
Check your Windows version (must be 22H2)
Update your PC fully through Windows Update
Enroll in ESU to extend protection through 2026
Plan your upgrade to Windows 11 or a new device within 12 months
Need help? EasyITGuys can assist with ESU enrollment, data backup, and Windows 11 upgrade planning — ensuring your transition is secure, smooth, and stress-free.
