Is Windows 10 Still Getting Updates? ESU Extended to 2027 (How to Enroll)

Updated October 2026

Quick answer: Yes, if your PC is enrolled in Extended Security Updates (ESU). Microsoft extended the free consumer ESU program by one year, so enrolled Windows 10 PCs now get security updates until October 12, 2027. If you already enrolled, you don’t need to do anything. If you haven’t, you can still sign up for free in Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.

Also read: How to Take a Screenshot on Windows 11

Many websites still say free Windows 10 updates ended on October 13, 2026. That was the original plan, but Microsoft changed it. Here’s what actually happened, how to check your PC, and how to enroll.

What Happened to Windows 10 Support?

  • October 14, 2025: Windows 10 reached end of support.
  • ESU year 1: Microsoft offered consumers one extra year of free security updates through the ESU program, originally ending October 13, 2026.
  • June 2026: Microsoft quietly extended consumer ESU by another year.
  • New end date: October 12, 2027.

Already Enrolled? You’re Covered

If you signed up for ESU before, your PC automatically continues getting updates until October 12, 2027. You don’t need to enroll again.

To check if your PC is enrolled:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Click Update & Security.
  3. Click Windows Update.
  4. Look for the message “Your PC is enrolled to get Extended Security Updates.”

If you see it, you’re done.

How to Enroll in Windows 10 ESU

  1. Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
  2. Install any pending updates first, then restart if asked.
  3. Click Enroll now under the Extended Security Updates message.
  4. Sign in with your Microsoft account if you’re using a local account.
  5. Choose one of the three options below.
  6. Follow the on-screen steps and click Done.

The 3 Ways to Get ESU

OptionCostNotes
Back up your PC settings with Windows BackupFreeSyncs your settings to your Microsoft account
Redeem Microsoft Rewards points1,000 pointsUse points you’ve earned with Bing or Xbox
One-time purchase$30One license covers up to 10 PCs

In Europe (EEA): you can enroll for free without backing up your settings, but you still need a Microsoft account.

Requirements

Your PC must have:

  • Windows 10 version 22H2 (Home, Pro, Pro Education, or Workstation)
  • The latest Windows updates installed
  • A Microsoft account with administrator rights (not a child account)

Your PC does not need to meet Windows 11’s hardware requirements to get ESU.

“Enroll Now” Not Showing? Try These Fixes

1. Install all updates. ESU only appears on fully updated Windows 10 22H2 PCs. Go to Windows Update, install everything, restart, and check again.

2. Check your Windows 10 version. Press Windows + R, type winver, and press Enter. It must say Version 22H2.

3. Sign in with a Microsoft account. Go to Settings > Accounts > Your info and click Sign in with a Microsoft account instead.

4. Use an administrator account. Child accounts and standard user accounts can’t enroll.

5. Check that it’s not a work PC. PCs managed by a company or school (domain-joined or MDM-managed) can’t use consumer ESU. Ask your IT department instead.

What ESU Includes, and What It Doesn’t

Included: Critical and important security updates, delivered through Windows Update.

Not included: New features, feature updates, or technical support from Microsoft.

ESU keeps your PC safe online, but Windows 10 won’t get any new features.

What Happens After October 12, 2027?

Unless Microsoft extends it again, free security updates for Windows 10 home PCs stop on that date. Your PC will keep working, but it won’t get security fixes, which makes it riskier to use online.

Your options:

  1. Upgrade to Windows 11 for free, if your PC meets the requirements. Check in Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
  2. Buy a new PC that comes with Windows 11.
  3. Keep using Windows 10 offline, or for tasks that don’t need the internet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Did Windows 10 updates end on October 13, 2026?

No. That was the original end date for free ESU, but Microsoft extended it. Enrolled PCs now get security updates until October 12, 2027.

Do I need to enroll in ESU again?

No. If your PC was already enrolled, it carries over to the new end date automatically.

Is Windows 10 ESU free?

Yes. The free option backs up your PC settings to your Microsoft account. You can also use 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points or pay $30.

Can I still enroll in Windows 10 ESU?

Yes. You can enroll any time until the program ends on October 12, 2027.

Does ESU work on PCs that can’t run Windows 11?

Yes. ESU is designed for PCs that can’t upgrade, so your PC doesn’t need to meet Windows 11 requirements.

How many PCs can one ESU license cover?

Up to 10 Windows 10 PCs linked to the same Microsoft account.

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