If you’re still on Windows 10, you got a quiet reprieve. Microsoft has extended free Windows 10 Extended Security Updates by a full year — your PC can now keep getting security patches through October 12, 2027.
The catch: Microsoft never made a formal announcement. It simply updated its support pages in June 2026. So a lot of guides (and maybe the reminder nagging you on your desktop) still show the old 2026 date.
Here’s exactly what changed, how to check whether you’re covered, and how to enroll for free if you aren’t.
Windows 10 reached end of support on October 14, 2025. Microsoft’s free consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) program originally covered enrolled PCs through October 13, 2026 — but that free coverage has now been extended to October 12, 2027. If you’re already enrolled, you’re extended automatically with no action needed. If you’re not, you can enroll from Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update for free by syncing your settings with Windows Backup.
What Actually Changed
Windows 10 officially left support on October 14, 2025. After that date, Microsoft stopped shipping regular free security updates to the general public and pushed everyone toward Windows 11 or the ESU program.
The consumer ESU program was meant to be a one-year bridge, covering enrolled PCs through October 13, 2026.
In June 2026, Microsoft quietly moved that finish line. Its documentation now lists October 12, 2027 as the end date for consumer ESU — a full extra year of security patches. There was no press release; the change showed up in Microsoft’s support documentation and an editor’s note on the Windows blog.
Important: ESU delivers security updates only. You won’t get new features, and general technical support for Windows 10 has still ended. This is about staying safe, not staying current.
Windows 10 Key Dates at a Glance
Here are the dates that actually matter for Windows 10 users:
| Date | What happens |
|---|---|
| October 14, 2025 | Windows 10 end of support — free public updates stop |
| October 13, 2026 | Original end date for free consumer ESU (now superseded) |
| October 12, 2027 | New end date for free consumer ESU security updates |
| October 10, 2028 | Microsoft 365 Apps security updates on Windows 10 end |
Are You Still Getting Updates Right Now?
Two-minute check:
- Open Settings.
- Go to Update & Security → Windows Update.
- Look at the status near the top.
If you see a message that your device is enrolled in Extended Security Updates, you’re covered through October 2027 — no further action needed.
If you see an “Enroll now” link, you’re not yet enrolled, and you should fix that before the next Patch Tuesday. Follow the steps below.
If Windows Update says you’re up to date but shows no ESU status, confirm you’re actually on Windows 10 version 22H2 (see requirements below) and that all pending updates are installed, then re-check.
What Happens If You Don’t Enroll
Nothing breaks the day you skip enrollment — your PC keeps working. The risk is slower and more serious: without ESU, your Windows 10 machine stops receiving monthly security patches.
That means any vulnerability discovered after your coverage ends stays unpatched on your system. Over time, that makes the PC a softer target for malware, ransomware, and exploit-based attacks — and because Windows 10 is still one of the most widely used operating systems, it stays attractive to attackers.
Good habits help — a strong antivirus, careful browsing, and regular backups — but none of that replaces official security updates. Enrolling in ESU (free in most cases) is the simplest way to stay genuinely protected.
Who Can Get Free ESU (Requirements)
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Windows 10 version | Version 22H2 |
| Edition | Home, Pro, Pro Education, or Workstation |
| Updates | Latest cumulative updates installed |
| Account | Signed in with a Microsoft account that has administrator rights |
A local-only account won’t work for enrollment — you’ll need to sign in with a Microsoft account to see the enroll option.
How to check your Windows 10 version
Not sure which version you’re on? Press Windows + R, type winver, and press Enter. The box that appears shows your version — you want it to read 22H2. If it’s older, install pending updates from Windows Update first, then check again.
How to Enroll in windows 10 extended security updates for Free
Microsoft gives consumers three ways to get ESU. One is genuinely free.
Option 1 — Free (sync your settings). Turn on Windows Backup and sync your PC settings to your Microsoft account (OneDrive). This unlocks ESU at no cost.
Option 2 — 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points. If you have points banked, you can redeem them instead.
Option 3 — One-time $30 payment. A straight purchase, useful if you don’t want to sync settings or use points.
Steps to enroll
- Open Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update.
- Install any pending updates and restart if asked.
- Click the Enroll now link when it appears.
- Choose your method — the free route is “Back up my settings” (Windows Backup to OneDrive).
- Follow the prompts to finish. Your PC will show as enrolled once it’s done.
Once enrolled, monthly security updates arrive through Windows Update just as they always did — now through October 2027.
The free option only asks you to sync settings, not your whole drive. The free OneDrive tier (5 GB) is usually plenty for that.
Should You Stay on Windows 10 or Upgrade to Windows 11?
ESU buys time — it doesn’t solve the long-term question. Think of it as a runway, not a destination.
Staying on Windows 10 with ESU makes sense if:
- Your PC can’t meet Windows 11’s requirements (TPM 2.0, supported CPU).
- You rely on software or hardware that isn’t ready for Windows 11.
- You just need a stable machine for another year or two.
Upgrading to Windows 11 makes sense if:
- Your PC is eligible (check Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update for the upgrade offer).
- You want new features and support beyond 2027.
- You’re buying or building a new machine anyway.
If you do upgrade, lock down the new install properly — our guide on securing Windows 11 from hacker threats walks through the settings that matter, and these hidden Windows 11 tips help you settle in fast.
If your current PC is too old to upgrade, our 2026 laptop buying guide can help you choose a replacement by budget and use case.
Windows 10 vs Windows 11 vs a New PC: Which Should You Choose?
Still weighing your options? Here’s how the three realistic paths compare so you can pick the one that fits your PC and budget.
| Option | Best for | Cost | Security support until |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stay on Windows 10 + ESU | Working PCs that can’t meet Windows 11’s requirements, or that you only need for another year or two | Free (or 1,000 Rewards points / $30) | October 12, 2027 |
| Upgrade to Windows 11 | Eligible PCs (TPM 2.0 and a supported CPU) that you want to keep using long term | Free | Multi-year (Windows 11 is fully supported) |
| Buy a new Windows 11 PC | Aging or unsupported hardware, or if you want a faster, fresh start | Varies by device | Longest — new hardware and full support |
A simple way to decide: if your PC is eligible for Windows 11, upgrading is the best long-term move and it’s free. If it isn’t eligible but still runs well, enroll in ESU and revisit the decision closer to 2027. If the machine is already slow or unreliable, put the money toward a new PC instead of stretching old hardware.
Staying Safe on Windows 10 Through 2027
ESU keeps the security patches coming, but layered basics still matter — especially on an older OS:
- Run reputable protection. See our picks for the best antivirus software in 2026.
- Back up regularly so a bad day never becomes a disaster. Start with these data backup hacks.
- Turn on two-factor authentication for your important accounts.
- Keep the machine responsive with our guide to fixing a slow computer.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming the deadline is still 2026. It’s now October 12, 2027 for the free consumer program. Old guides are wrong.
- Trying to enroll with a local account. You must sign in with a Microsoft account that has admin rights.
- Skipping updates before enrolling. If you’re behind on cumulative updates, the “Enroll now” link may not appear.
- Confusing ESU with full support. You get security patches only — no features, no general troubleshooting support.
- Waiting until you’re already infected. Enroll while your PC is healthy, not after something breaks.
Windows 11 KB5121003 Problems and Fixes
Moving to Windows 11? Review the latest update problems and the safest repair steps.
The Bottom Line
You have breathing room. Free Windows 10 security updates now run to October 12, 2027 — but only if your PC is enrolled. Take two minutes to check Windows Update, enroll for free if you need to, and use the extra year to plan your move to Windows 11 (or a new PC) on your own schedule.
Next step: open Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update right now and confirm your ESU status.
→ READ NEXTTwo-Factor Authentication Explained: How It Works in 2026Add a second layer of protection to your important accounts in a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Windows 10 still safe to use in 2026?
Yes — if you enroll in ESU. Enrolled PCs continue to receive monthly security updates through October 12, 2027. An unenrolled Windows 10 PC no longer gets those patches and grows riskier over time.
Do I have to pay for Windows 10 ESU?
Not necessarily. Consumers can get it free by syncing PC settings with Windows Backup. The alternatives are 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points or a one-time $30 payment.
Will Microsoft 365 and Office still work on Windows 10?
Yes. Microsoft is providing security updates for Microsoft 365 Apps on Windows 10 through October 10, 2028 — separate from the operating system’s ESU program. You keep getting security fixes for the apps, though new features stop earlier.
I enrolled last year — do I need to re-enroll for the extension?
No. If you’re already enrolled, Microsoft extends your coverage to October 2027 automatically.
What do I lose by staying on Windows 10?
New features and general technical support. ESU is security-only, so you’re protected but not getting new functionality.
How do I know if my PC can run Windows 11 instead?
Check Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update. If your PC is eligible, Microsoft offers the free upgrade there. Eligibility mainly depends on TPM 2.0 and a supported processor.
Does ESU cover Windows 10 Enterprise?
Business/enterprise ESU is a separate, paid track (up to three years). This guide covers the free consumer program.
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