How to Enroll in Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) Before Support Ends

As the end of official support for Windows 10 approaches on October 14, 2025, many users are seeking ways to maintain their system's security without transitioning to Windows 11. Microsoft's Extended Security Updates (ESU) program offers a solution, providing an additional year of critical security updates until October 13, 2026. This article outlines the enrollment process, eligibility criteria, and available options for obtaining these updates, including methods to do so at no additional cost.

Understanding the Extended Security Updates (ESU) Program​

The ESU program is designed to deliver critical and important security updates to Windows 10 devices beyond the official end-of-support date. It's important to note that ESU does not include new features, non-security updates, or technical support. The primary goal is to help users maintain a secure computing environment during their transition to newer operating systems or hardware.

Eligibility Criteria for ESU Enrollment​

To enroll in the ESU program, ensure your device meets the following requirements:

• Operating System Version: Your PC must be running Windows 10, version 22H2 (Home, Pro, Pro Education, or Workstation editions) with all the latest updates installed.
• Administrator Account: You need to have administrative privileges on the device.
• Microsoft Account: Enrollment requires signing in with a Microsoft account. Even if you typically use a local account, a Microsoft account is necessary for the ESU license acquisition.
• Device Configuration: The PC should not be in kiosk mode, joined to an Active Directory domain, joined to Microsoft Entra, or enrolled in any mobile device management (MDM) solutions. These configurations are common in workplace environments, and Microsoft offers separate ESU programs for businesses and organizations.

Devices that meet these criteria can proceed with the enrollment process.

Enrollment Process for ESU​

Follow these steps to enroll your Windows 10 PC in the ESU program:

• Access Windows Update Settings:
• Open the Settings app.
• Navigate to Update & Security > Windows Update.
• Initiate Enrollment:
• You should see a notification indicating that Windows 10 support ends in October 2025, accompanied by an "Enroll now" link.
• Click on the "Enroll now" link to start the enrollment process.
• Sign In with Microsoft Account:
• If you're not already signed in with a Microsoft account, you'll be prompted to do so.
• This sign-in can be temporary; once enrollment is complete, you can revert to using a local account if preferred.
• Choose Enrollment Option:
• Microsoft offers three methods to obtain an ESU license:
• Windows Backup App: By using the Windows Backup app to sync your settings to OneDrive, you can enroll in ESU at no additional cost. This method backs up certain settings and data to your Microsoft account. Note that the free OneDrive storage limit is 5GB, which may be sufficient for settings but not for extensive file backups.
• Microsoft Rewards Points: Redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points to enroll in ESU without a monetary fee. Points can be accumulated through activities like using Bing search or purchasing from the Microsoft Store.
• One-Time Purchase: Pay a $30 fee to obtain the ESU license. This option is straightforward and ties the license to your Microsoft account.
• Confirm Enrollment:
• After selecting your preferred enrollment method and completing the necessary steps, a confirmation message will appear in the Windows Update settings, indicating that your PC is enrolled in the ESU program.

Once enrolled, your device will receive critical security updates through Windows Update until October 13, 2026.

Managing Your Microsoft Account Post-Enrollment​

If you prefer not to keep your Microsoft account linked to your device after enrollment, you can revert to a local account without affecting your ESU status:

• Switch to Local Account:
• Go to Settings > Accounts > Your Info.
• Select "Sign in with a local account instead" and follow the prompts.
• Disable Windows Backup:
• Navigate to Settings > Accounts > Windows Backup.
• Turn off all backup options to stop syncing settings to OneDrive.

These steps allow you to maintain your privacy preferences while still benefiting from the extended security updates.

Considerations and Limitations​

• Scope of Updates: The ESU program provides only critical and important security updates. It does not include new features, non-security updates, or technical support.
• Duration: The ESU coverage extends from October 15, 2025, through October 13, 2026. There is no indication of further extensions beyond this period.
• Data Privacy: Utilizing the Windows Backup method involves syncing certain settings and data to OneDrive. Users concerned about data privacy should review and manage their backup settings accordingly.

Conclusion​

For Windows 10 users who are not ready or unable to upgrade to Windows 11, enrolling in Microsoft's ESU program offers a viable path to maintain system security for an additional year. By following the outlined steps and choosing the enrollment method that best suits your preferences, you can ensure your device remains protected until October 2026. It's advisable to plan for a long-term solution, such as upgrading to a supported operating system, to maintain security and access to new features beyond the ESU period.

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Source: WIRED Still Using Windows 10? Here's How to Get Another Year of Updates for Free