How to Extend Windows 10 Security Updates Beyond Support End in 2025

As Windows 10 approaches its end-of-life on October 14, 2025, Microsoft has introduced the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program to provide users with options for maintaining security updates beyond this date. Initially, the ESU program required a $30 annual fee for consumers to receive an additional year of critical and important security updates. However, Microsoft has now expanded the program to include two additional enrollment methods that do not involve direct monetary payment:

• Windows Backup Synchronization: Users can enroll in the ESU program by using Windows Backup to sync their settings to the cloud. This method leverages Microsoft's cloud services to facilitate the enrollment process.
• Microsoft Rewards Points: Alternatively, users can redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points to join the ESU program. Microsoft Rewards points can be accumulated through various activities such as searching with Bing, making purchases, or completing specific tasks while signed into a Microsoft account.

To check your Microsoft Rewards points balance, visit the Rewards website on Bing.
Once enrolled through any of these methods, devices will automatically receive security updates until October 13, 2026. The enrollment process is scheduled as follows:

• June 2025: Windows Insiders can begin enrolling in the ESU program.
• July 2025: The enrollment option becomes available to all Windows 10 customers.
• August 2025: Broad availability of the enrollment options.

For commercial organizations, the ESU program offers extended support for up to three years, with the cost increasing each year:

• Year 1: $61 per device
• Year 2: $122 per device
• Year 3: $244 per device

Organizations utilizing cloud-based update management solutions like Microsoft Intune or Windows Autopatch are eligible for a 25% discount on these rates. Additionally, Windows 10 devices accessing Windows 11 Cloud PCs through Windows 365 will automatically receive ESU activation at no extra cost.
It's important to note that the ESU program is designed as a temporary bridge to provide users and organizations additional time to transition to a supported operating system, such as Windows 11. The program focuses solely on delivering critical and important security updates and does not include new features, non-security fixes, or design changes.
For users seeking extended support beyond the ESU program, third-party services like 0Patch offer security updates for Windows 10 until at least 2030.
In summary, Microsoft has provided multiple avenues for Windows 10 users to maintain security updates beyond the official end-of-support date, including both paid and alternative methods that utilize existing Microsoft services and rewards programs.

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Source: gHacks Technology News Microsoft makes Windows 10 ESU free for some users, but there is a catch - gHacks Tech News