How To Extend Support and Protection For Your Windows 10 Computer

by Burton Kelso, The Tech Expert

For many of you, the desktop or laptop computer you own running Windows 10 is a perfectly capable machine that handles your daily tasks without a problem. However, Microsoft has stated that on October 14, 2025, Windows 10 support will end, potentially exposing you to significant security risks. 

If you're one of those with a computer that doesn't meet the strict requirements for Windows 11, this deadline presents a daunting choice for you: buy a new computer or risk running an unprotected system. However, a third option exists. If you're not ready to part with your reliable computer, there are several things you can do to extend the life of your Windows 10 computer well beyond its official expiration date.

Here's what you need to know:

As of September 2025, you can extend Windows 10 support for one year past the official end-of-life date of October 14, 2025, by enrolling in the Extended Security Update (ESU) program. Microsoft offers individual consumers three enrollment options, including two free methods. 

What are the enrollment requirements?
To be eligible for the ESU program, your computer must be running the latest version of Windows 10, version 22H2. You can make this happen by downloading Windows updates to your computer.

Is there a fee to enroll in this program?

There are two free options for enrolling in the ESU program, but they require that you set up a Microsoft account. 

• Enable Windows Backup: The most direct way to get free ESU updates is by enabling Windows Backup to sync your PC's settings to the cloud.
  1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
  2. Click the "Enroll now" option, which should be under the heading "Windows 10 support ends in October 2025".
  3. Follow the prompts to link a Microsoft account and enable backup. This will grant you a one-year ESU license.
• Redeem Microsoft Rewards points: You can also redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points for a one-year ESU subscription. 

Enroll with a one-time purchase.
For a one-time purchase of $30, you can get a one-year ESU license if you prefer not to use a Microsoft account or sync your PC settings. 

What you can expect after enrolling:
After enrolling, you will receive critical security updates through October 13, 2026. However, there are limitations to the ESU program: 

• It does not include new features or non-security bug fixes.
• The ESU program for consumers is a temporary measure that is only available for one year, providing time to transition to Windows 11. 

Commercial customers:

• ESU options for commercial and educational organizations differ from those for individual consumers, with prices increasing each year for up to three years of coverage.
• Free ESU options are available for virtual machines and Windows 365 services

Can you get ESU for multiple Windows 10 PCs with one Microsoft account?
Yes, a single Extended Security Update (ESU) license, whether obtained for free or purchased for $30, can cover up to 10 personal Windows 10 PCs
.
This applies to all three ESU enrollment methods: 

• Free enrollment by syncing PC settings via Windows Backup.
• Free enrollment by redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points.
• One-time purchase of a $30 license. 

How can I enroll multiple PC's:

1. Meet the prerequisites: Ensure each Windows 10 PC you want to enroll is running the latest version, 22H2.
2. Sign in with the same Microsoft account: Use the same Microsoft account as an administrator on all the devices you wish to cover.
3. Complete enrollment on one PC: Enroll your first PC using one of the three ESU options (Windows Backup sync, Rewards points, or purchase).
4. Enroll subsequent PCs: On each additional PC you want to add, go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. Select the "Enroll now" option and follow the prompts to add the device to your existing ESU license. 

Important notes:

• A Microsoft account is mandatory: You must use a Microsoft account to enroll in the ESU program, regardless of whether you choose a free or paid option. This allows Microsoft to tie the license to your account and enforce the 10-device limit.
• Manual enrollment is required: Even though one license covers multiple devices, you must still manually initiate the enrollment process on each PC.