Microsoft offers consumers three options to use Windows 10 for one more year with security updates.
Windows 10 will definitively end in October 2025. Users who wish to enjoy Windows 10 for a bit longer can participate in the ESU program (Extended Security Updates). Initially, this plan was intended for businesses that received security updates for an additional year for a fee, but now consumers can also join. Additionally, you can choose two other “free options” to continue using Windows 10 safely for a longer period.
Three options
Consumers now have three options to enjoy security updates for Windows 10 for an additional year. The first option is to join the ESU program for $30. This is the price that businesses also pay per device to continue using Windows 10 safely for longer.
A second option is to use Windows Backup. This is an app already included in Windows 10. Windows Backup uses OneDrive, where you can store accounts and Wi-Fi passwords online. When switching to a new device, you can easily transfer this data. Note that you can use up to 5 GB of storage space for free, but once you exceed this limit, it will cost money.
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A final option is to exchange Microsoft Rewards points through a loyalty program. One year of extra security updates for Windows 10 equals 1,000 Microsoft Reward points. You can earn these points by, for example, performing searches with Bing or making purchases in the Microsoft Store.
Although Microsoft is keeping the doors open for a secure Windows 10 a bit longer, it has been pushing its Windows 11 to customers for a long time. Starting in July, users can sign up for one of these three options through an enrollment wizard in Windows 10.