Microsoft has repeatedly reminded users that Windows 10 will officially leave support this October — but that hasn’t stopped the company from quietly giving users more ways to remain on the aging platform.
According to a newly updated Microsoft support document, uncovered by Windows Central, the company has expanded its Windows 10 Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) program to cover up to ten devices per subscription. Previously, the consumer ESU appeared to be intended for a single PC, but this change now makes it more appealing for households with multiple Windows 10 systems — or even extended families that haven’t yet moved to Windows 11.
Under the ESU program, users can continue receiving critical security updates through October 13, 2026, effectively extending Windows 10’s usable life by another year past the October 2025 end-of-support deadline. Microsoft is now offering three different enrollment paths:
- Free enrollment if you use Windows Backup to sync your PC’s settings to the cloud.
- A $30 annual subscription fee paid directly to Microsoft.
- A 1,000 Microsoft Rewards point redemption, for those who prefer to trade loyalty points instead of cash.
The ESU enrollment prompt will appear in the Windows Update settings menu for eligible PCs — specifically, those running Windows 10 22H2, fully updated, and signed into a Microsoft account. If you’re already using Windows Backup, the system will offer to join the ESU program automatically.
Notably, Microsoft now requires a Microsoft account for all three ESU options. Users signed into a local account will be prompted to switch before joining. While this change aligns with Microsoft’s broader push toward account-linked services, it also means there’s no path to extended security support without tying your installation to Microsoft’s cloud ecosystem.
