Microsoft Extends Windows 10 Support to October 2026: What You Need To Know & Do

Microsoft has announced a significant update to its Windows 10 support timeline, offering users an extra year of security updates beyond the previously set end-of-support date. Initially slated to end in October 2025, Windows 10 support will now continue until October 13, 2026, for consumers who opt into the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. This change comes as a relief for the millions of users still running Windows 10, which holds a 53.19% market share as of May 2025, according to StatCounter data. Here’s what you need to know about this extension and how to take advantage of it.

What’s New with Windows 10 Support?

Microsoft’s original plan was to end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, meaning no further security updates, feature updates, or technical support would be provided after that date. However, in response to user feedback and the significant number of PCs still running Windows 10—many of which cannot upgrade to Windows 11 due to hardware requirements—Microsoft has introduced new enrollment options for the ESU program. These options make it easier and, in some cases, free for consumers to continue receiving critical and important security updates until October 2026.

The ESU program is designed as a “last resort” for users who need to keep running Windows 10, particularly those with hardware incompatible with Windows 11’s requirements, such as the need for a TPM 2.0 chip or supported CPUs. While Microsoft continues to encourage upgrading to Windows 11 for a more secure and modern experience, this extension provides a temporary solution for those who need more time to transition.

How to Enroll in the Extended Security Updates Program

Microsoft is making it easier for consumers to enroll in the ESU program with three options, two of which are free:

Enable Windows Backup with a Microsoft Account (Free): By using the Windows Backup app to sync your settings, documents, and pictures to the cloud via a Microsoft Account, you can enroll in the ESU program at no cost. Note that the free tier of OneDrive offers only 5 GB of storage, which may limit its use for larger backups.
Redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards Points (Free): Users can redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points, earned through activities like Bing searches or Microsoft Store purchases, to enroll in the ESU program without paying cash.
Pay $30 for a One-Year Subscription: For those who prefer not to use a Microsoft Account or Rewards points, a one-year ESU subscription is available for $30 per device.

Enrollment is straightforward, with an “enrollment wizard” available through the Windows Update settings or notifications. This wizard is already accessible in the Windows Insider Program and will roll out to all Windows 10 users starting in July 2025, with full availability expected by mid-August. Once enrolled, your PC will receive security updates from October 15, 2025, to October 13, 2026.

What Does the ESU Program Include?

The ESU program provides critical and important security updates as defined by the Microsoft Security Response Center. However, it does not include new features, bug fixes, or technical support beyond issues directly related to the ESU program itself. Devices must be running Windows 10 version 22H2 to be eligible for these updates.

For businesses and organizations, the ESU program offers up to three years of support at a higher cost (starting at $61 per device for the first year, doubling annually). Additionally, Windows 10 devices accessing Windows 11 Cloud PCs via Windows 365 or virtual machines can receive ESU updates at no extra charge.

Microsoft 365 Apps on Windows 10

Microsoft has also confirmed that Microsoft 365 apps, including subscription versions of Project and Visio, will continue to receive feature updates on Windows 10 until August 2026 (Version 2608). After that, these apps will receive security updates until October 10, 2028, ensuring longer-term support for productivity software. However, support for issues specific to Microsoft 365 apps on Windows 10 may be limited if they don’t occur on Windows 11.

Why the Change?

The decision to extend support and offer free enrollment options reflects Microsoft’s acknowledgment of Windows 10’s enduring popularity. With over half of Windows PCs still running Windows 10, many users are reluctant to upgrade due to hardware limitations or satisfaction with the current OS. Microsoft’s move also softens the transition as it continues to promote Windows 11, which now runs on about 43% of Windows PCs, up from 34% in December 2024.

What Should You Do?

While the ESU program offers a reprieve, it’s not a long-term solution. Here are your options:

Upgrade to Windows 11: If your PC meets the minimum requirements (check via Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update), you can upgrade to Windows 11 for free. Windows 11 offers enhanced security features like TPM 2.0 and Smart App Control, along with a modernized interface.
Enroll in the ESU Program: If upgrading isn’t an option, enroll in the ESU program to keep your Windows 10 PC secure until October 2026. Use the free options if possible to avoid the $30 fee.
Consider Upgrading Your PC: For PCs that can’t run Windows 11, replacing your device with a Windows 11 compatible PC is Microsoft’s recommended long-term solution. Trade-in and buy-back programs are available through JUST PC’s.
Explore Third-Party Solutions: For those looking beyond Microsoft’s offerings, third-party services like 0patch offer security patches for Windows 10, with plans to support it for at least five years post-2025. The 0patch personal plan is free for 0-day vulnerabilities, while a Pro plan costs around $2.50/month per PC for comprehensive patches.

Looking Ahead

Microsoft’s extension of Windows 10 support to October 2026 provides a valuable buffer for users, especially those unable to upgrade to Windows 11. However, the company remains focused on transitioning users to Windows 11, emphasizing its security and performance benefits. Whether you choose to enroll in the ESU program or plan a move to Windows 11, now is the time to prepare for the end of Windows 10’s lifecycle. Stay informed through Microsoft’s official support pages for the latest updates.

For more details, visit Microsoft’s End of Support for Windows 10 page or the Windows 10 ESU program page.