- Windows 10 users may not yet see the enrollment option for the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, as Microsoft is implementing the feature in phases.
- The tech giant assures that all qualifying devices will gain access to the enrollment button ahead of the support expiration on October 14, 2025.
- The ESU program will extend security updates until October 13, 2026, but it will not introduce new features.
Many Windows 10 users attempting to register for Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) program are noticing the absence of the enrollment option in their Settings menu. This has become a point of frustration, particularly since Microsoft assured that the feature would be available by mid-August 2025. As a result, there are growing concerns about whether their devices might be excluded from this crucial update program.
Wave-based Rollout Strategy
Microsoft has clarified that the ESU enrollment option is functioning as intended across devices, but is being rolled out in stages. Not every user will see the “Enroll now” button simultaneously under Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
This gradual deployment may serve multiple purposes, such as ensuring system stability and allowing Microsoft to address potential issues before the full rollout. An earlier cumulative update (KB5063709) fixed bugs that hindered the appearance of the enrollment process, indicating ongoing enhancements to the deployment.
At this time, there is no manual approach available for users to expedite seeing the enrollment option; patience is essential as they await Microsoft’s phased activation. However, Microsoft has guaranteed that the enrollment feature will be accessible to all eligible Windows 10 devices before support concludes on October 14, 2025.
Understanding the ESU Program
The Extended Security Updates program aims to provide users with an additional year of security patch support, extending it until October 13, 2026. It is crucial to highlight that ESU will offer only security updates, and there will be no introduction of new features, enhancements, or direct support from Microsoft.
Initially targeted towards organizations, Microsoft has now extended the program’s availability to individual consumers through three different enrollment methods:
- Free Option: Users can back up files to OneDrive, with or without a Microsoft 365 subscription.
- Microsoft Rewards: Users can redeem 1, 000 Rewards points to enroll.
- Paid Plan: For $30 per year, covers up to 10 devices associated with the same Microsoft account.
Regardless of how they choose to enroll, users must have a Microsoft account, even those opting for the paid plan. This requirement has prompted some dissatisfaction among users who anticipated having the option to make offline purchases.
Encouragement to Upgrade
While the ESU program serves as a temporary safety net, Microsoft is also capitalizing on the impending deadline to motivate users to transition to Windows 11. The company has begun issuing full-screen notifications urging users to upgrade, highlighting the risks associated with remaining on an unsupported operating system.
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Next Steps for Users
If you intend to remain on Windows 10, it is advisable not to delay your actions. While there’s no way to force the appearance of the enrollment option, regularly check for system updates to ensure that KB5063709 or a newer update is installed. Then, monitor for the “Enroll now” button within the “Windows Update” settings.
If your hardware meets compatibility criteria, you might consider bypassing the ESU program altogether and planning your upgrade path to Windows 11 as soon as possible.
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