Huge Windows 10 boost means your PC can avoid Windows 11 for longer
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Although ESUs don't include new features, they did promise to keep PCs safe for 12 months.
Luckily, it now seems Microsoft is being a little more generous, quietly adding more time for users to switch to Windows 11. When ESUs were announced, it was confirmed that they would end in October this year, however, that has now been updated with fans of Windows 10 now able to get security patches until at least October 2027.
In an update on its website, Microsoft said: "Windows 10 support has ended. You can enroll in ESU any time until the programme ends on 12 October, 2027. If you’re already enrolled, your coverage will automatically continue through that date—no action needed.
"The Extended Security Updates (ESU) programme for Windows 10 provides customers with a more secure option to continue using their Windows 10 PCs after 14 October, 2025, while they transition to Windows 11.
"The ESU programme helps reduce the risk of malware and cybersecurity attacks by providing access to critical and important security updates as defined by the Microsoft Security Response Centre (MSRC) for devices running Windows 10, version 22H2. ESU enrollment does not provide other types of fixes, feature improvements or product enhancements. It also does not come with technical support."
If you are still using Windows 10 and haven't added any extra protection - such as ESUs - then it's worth considering, as PCs that aren't getting regular updates are at far bigger risk of cyber attack and bugs.
To enrol in the consumer Windows 10 ESU programme, make sure your device meets the correct requirements - can be found here.
Microsoft says you must then sigin in using the administrator account. You may be prompted to sign in with a Microsoft account if you typically sign into Windows with a local account.
A one-time purchase of $30 (£23) or local currency equivalent plus applicable tax will then be charged. Although some might not want to pay, it will make sure everything is safe and secure until you decide the time is right to move to Windows 11.