Steps to Enroll for Free Extended Security Updates (ESU) After Windows 10 Support Ends

How to Enroll in the Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) Program

If you’re looking to keep your Windows 10 device secure beyond its support date, you can enroll in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. This initiative allows users to access security updates for an extra year after official support ends on October 14, 2025. Below, we will explore how to enroll and the benefits of doing so.

Overview of the Enrollment Process

As of now, Microsoft is making the ESU program available to regular consumers, providing options to enroll through various methods:

Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, and click on “Enroll now” when prompted.
Sign up by either backing up to OneDrive, redeeming Microsoft Rewards points, or paying a fee of $30.
Enrollment in this program grants you an additional year of security updates past the end of standard support.

Why Enroll in the ESU Program?

After a decade-long service, support for Windows 10 will officially cease, yet many users may not be ready to transition to Windows 11. By enrolling in the ESU program, you ensure that your device continues to receive essential security updates, allowing you more time to plan your upgrade.

Notably, although primarily intended for organizations, the program now offers access to individual users under specific conditions, including potential free enrollment methods for those already engaged with Microsoft services.

Steps to Enroll in the ESU Program

To enroll your device in the Extended Security Updates program, follow these detailed steps:

Access the Settings from the Start menu.
Select Update & Security.
Click on Windows Update.
(Optional) Choose “Check for updates” to make sure your system is up-to-date.
Click on Enroll now under the notification regarding the end of Windows 10 support.

Quick tip: You may also find the enrollment option in the left sidebar of the “Windows Update”page.
Press Next to continue.
If your device is backing up settings, click Enroll.
Choose your preferred enrollment method: “Back up your PC settings, ” “Redeem Microsoft Rewards points, ” or “One time purchase.”
Click Next again.
Follow any remaining on-screen instructions to finalize your enrollment.
Click Done to complete the process.

Following these steps ensures that your device will receive critical security updates for an additional year.

How to Verify Your Enrollment Status

To confirm if your computer is successfully enrolled in the ESU program, follow these steps:

Open Settings.
Navigate to Update & Security.
Go to Windows Update.
Look for a message stating “Your PC is enrolled to get Extended Security Updates”.

After completing these steps, you can be assured that your computer will continue to receive essential security updates.

Frequently Asked Questions about the ESU Program

What updates will Windows 10 receive through the ESU program?

The ESU program will provide crucial security updates, ensuring your device remains secure until you are ready for an upgrade. Note that these updates do not include new features or enhancements.

Will Microsoft Defender Antivirus still receive updates?

Yes, Microsoft Defender Antivirus will continue to receive updates regardless of your enrollment status, continuing until 2028.

Will Microsoft Office applications continue to be updated?

Yes, all Microsoft 365 applications will receive updates, although new features may not be included.

For how long will Windows 10 receive security updates?

Official support for Windows 10 concludes on October 14, 2025, with ESU updates extending until October 13, 2026.

When will you be able to enroll your PC in the ESU program?

The ESU enrollment option will be available to all users by mid-August 2025, having already launched in phases starting from June 24, 2025.

When is the best time to enroll?

It is wise to enroll as soon as the option is available to ensure continuous updates. Alternatively, joining the Release Preview Channel can expedite access.

What are the eligibility requirements for the ESU program?

Your device must be running Windows 10 22H2 and have the latest cumulative updates. Additionally, you must sign in with an administrator account associated with a Microsoft account.

Is enrollment necessary for all users?

Not necessarily. Users with compatible devices are encouraged to upgrade to Windows 11 whenever feasible. The ESU program is primarily for those needing additional time to transition.

Can you upgrade to Windows 11 after enrolling in ESU?

Absolutely. You remain free to upgrade your system to Windows 11 at any point during your participation in the ESU program.

For further guidance and the latest updates, you can reference this source.