Free Windows 10 Extended Security Updates Announced by Microsoft — Here’s the Catch!

Microsoft is encouraging users to transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11, Copilot+ PCs, or Windows 365 before support ends on October 14, 2025. Yusuf Mehdi, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, emphasised Microsoft's commitment to providing secure and accessible technology for all users.

Windows 10, which debuted in July 2015, will cease receiving security updates and new features after mid-October 2025. Although devices will still function, they will be more vulnerable to cyber threats and software issues. Users can check their eligibility for a Windows 11 upgrade through Settings or the PC Health Check tool.

Benefits of Upgrading to Windows 11

Windows 11 offers enhanced security with default hardware protections like TPM 2.0 and virtualization-based security. Reports indicate that new Windows 11 devices experience a significant reduction in security breaches and firmware attacks compared to their predecessors.

The operating system also boasts improved efficiency with faster updates and quicker resume times from sleep mode. It delivers up to 2.3 times the performance of Windows 10 PCs. The updated user interface includes features like Snap Layouts and multiple desktops for better navigation.

Extended Security Updates for Windows 10

To assist those needing more time, Microsoft provides Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 10 from October 15, 2025, to October 13, 2026. Users can enroll for free by syncing settings with Windows Backup or redeeming Microsoft Rewards points. A paid option is available at $30 USD, with regional pricing variations.

Enrollment through a wizard in Settings will debut for Windows Insiders in July 2025. An annual subscription costs $61 per device, renewable up to three years with incremental price increases. Volume Licensing offers ESU now, set to launch with Cloud Service Providers on September 1, 2025.

Cloud Solutions: Windows 365

Windows 365 provides a cloud-hosted Windows 11 environment accessible from nearly any internet-connected device. This allows secure remote work without immediate hardware upgrades. New subscribers enjoy a first-year discount of 20% on plans.

Complimentary Extended Security Updates are available for devices accessed through Windows 365 Cloud PCs or virtual machines running Windows 11. This ensures continued protection without requiring immediate upgrades.

Preparing for the Transition

Microsoft's dedication to supporting users during this transition is evident in its offerings—whether upgrading to Windows 11, utilizing ESU, or adopting Windows 365. Yusuf Mehdi described the year as pivotal for the "Windows 11 PC refresh," driven by AI advancements and hardware innovation.

The company recommends using the built-in Windows Backup feature for data transfer when upgrading systems. Microsoft Defender Antivirus will continue receiving regular security intelligence updates until October 2028. Microsoft encourages users to explore upgrade options via their official website or the PC Health Check app as they prepare for this significant change in their operating systems.