Windows 10 End-of-Support (Oct 14, 2025): How to Keep Security Updates

As Windows 10 approaches its end-of-support date on October 14, 2025, Microsoft is phasing out mainstream updates, thereby leaving users to decide how to keep their devices secure. At the outset, it is important to note that no critical security patch is coming your way without action, thus increasing the vulnerability to cyber threats. Now the question arises, how to keep security updates? Let us dive in to know the answer.

The good thing is you can opt for Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU), which provides a one-year lifeline. It provides you with security-only updates until October 13, 2026. In this article, I will explain how to keep security updates, ESU Free Year, $30 Option & Enrollment. Scroll down to know.

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What Does Windows 10 End-of-Support Mean?

It means that after Oct 14, 2025, Microsoft will no longer release free security patches, bug fixes, and feature updates for Windows 10. It includes Home, Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions.

Since the security patches cease to be available, your device is exposed to new vulnerabilities, malware, and compatibility issues with modern software.

How to Keep Security Updates?

The free security patches will not be available post October 14, leaving users with the question: how to keep security updates. Don’t fret. Microsoft has come up with the ESU Program. The program is available in two variants: free and paid. Even though the features of both programs are the same, the $30 ESU License is ideal if you have to connect to multiple devices.

1. ESU Program: What is the Purpose of the ESU Program & What are the Options?

The Extended Security Updates offered by Microsoft are primarily meant for dealing with security patches. The program provides critical security patches. It does not support any new features; however, it is a viable option to be used to bridge the gap for users unable to upgrade to Windows 11. ESU provides updates until October 13, 2026.

As far as the questions of the ESU Program options are concerned. Microsoft offers two primary ways to access ESU for Windows 10. Both ways can be summed up as follows:

1. Free ESU Year

As the name suggests, this is a free ESU program. No charges are to be levied. This option is available till October 13, 2026.

This program is available to users who enroll via specific Microsoft services. You can opt for the Free ESU Year program by following either of the two methods, via the “Windows Backup Enrollment” or through the “Microsoft Rewards Program.”

1. Via Windows Backup Enrollment

Link your Windows 10 device to a Microsoft account and enable Windows Backup. Go to Settings > Accounts > Windows Backup. Once you follow these steps, eligible devices are automatically enrolled in the free ESU year.

2. Via Microsoft Rewards Program

Earn points through Microsoft Rewards, such as via Bing searches or tasks, to redeem for a free ESU license. You require an active Microsoft account and sufficient points. You can check the “rewards section on the Microsoft website” for more details.

2. $30 ESU License

This ESU program is valid till October 13, 2026. This program is priced at $30. This license covers up to 10 Windows devices under the same Microsoft account. The program can be purchased through the Microsoft Store or authorized resellers.

$30 ESU License is ideal for households or small businesses with multiple devices. It provides the same security-only updates as the free options. The wider device coverage is the add-on feature.

The activation process is straightforward. All you require is a Microsoft account and linking devices, and then follow the steps below:

1. Go to the “Settings.”

2. Tap “System.”

3. Click “Activate.”

Conclusion

Knowing the fact that Windows 10’s End-of-Support date is nearing and the free security patch feature will no longer be available does not mean you need to worry. The Windows 10 ESU program offers a critical lifeline to keep your device secure beyond the given date. You have a couple of options: a free ESU program and a paid ESU program. You are at liberty to choose either of the plans depending on your needs and requirements. In this article, I have provided you with a detailed explanation for the same.