Microsoft Recently announced that they will be extending Windows 10 Security Updates to eligible Windows 10 installs, until October 13th, 2026.
What’s Happening?
For years, Microsoft has signaled that Windows 10’s end of support would arrive in October 2025. That date made businesses and home users nervous. Many had no budget, appetite, or need to rush into a full Windows 11 migration.
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Recently, Microsoft confirmed that security updates for Windows 10 will now be available until October 13, 2026—but with conditions. This doesn’t mean every Windows 10 computer is automatically safe. The updates will be delivered through a paid “Extended Security Updates” (ESU) program. This approach is similar to how Microsoft handled legacy versions like Windows 7.
So, what does this mean for you, your business, and your IT strategy? Let’s walk through the key questions.
Why Did Microsoft Extend Support?
Microsoft rarely changes support timelines unless the customer base is still very large. Hundreds of millions of devices are still running Windows 10. This includes government agencies, healthcare providers, nonprofits, and small businesses. Cutting off security patches in 2025 would have left too many systems vulnerable.
By offering this extension, Microsoft provides breathing room for organizations to:
Budget migrations without disrupting daily operations.
First, the requirements.
Plan hardware refreshes more strategically.
Test Windows 11 compatibility with industry-specific software.
Your device must be already running Windows 10 22H2. Home, Professional, Pro Education, and Workstation editions all qualify.
This offer from Microsoft is FREE for consumers. Organizations will need to work with their IT support staff to understand Microsoft’s rules for corporate devices. Specifically, devices joined to a domain are ineligible.
Devices must have internet access to complete the enrollment. Note that a single Microsoft account can enable up to 10 devices for Extended Support.
Based on the requirements, and stated cost for corporate PCs, SofTouch Systems expects Microsoft to extend this offer to consumers further, next year, but likely with a price tag attached.
— Derek
What are the advantages?
You need just a small extension if you’re simply not ready for a new PC. Or you might be investigating other options, like migrating to Mac or Linux. This will give you that time.
If you are looking at migrating to Linux, chances are that your existing PC can run it just fine.
More Time to Prepare
Businesses can continue running Windows 10 without fearing an immediate security cliff. That extra year offers time to schedule IT projects. It allows for staff training on Windows 11. Upgrades can be staggered to match budget cycles.
Reduced Business Disruption
Some industries rely on critical legacy apps that don’t yet run smoothly on Windows 11. This extension buys them time to ensure full compatibility before migrating.
Predictable IT Costs
Instead of emergency upgrades in 2025, companies can plan gradual rollouts. This approach balances licensing, hardware, and IT labor expenses across two fiscal years.
Legal and Secure
Unlike sticking with unsupported systems, the ESU program ensures machines continue to receive Microsoft-backed security patches. This keeps businesses compliant and auditors satisfied.
What are the disadvantages?
Obviously, putting off purchasing a new PC if you need one can be very counter productive.
It’s Not Free
Extended Security Updates are a paid service. The exact cost structure varies, but historically Microsoft increases the price each year of extension. That means the longer you hold onto Windows 10, the more expensive it gets.
Delay Can Breed Complacency
While extra time is helpful, it’s easy for organizations to push migrations off indefinitely. That can lead to a last-minute rush in 2026—costlier and riskier than planning ahead now.
Limited Scope of Updates
The ESU program provides security patches only. No new features, performance upgrades, or bug fixes will be released for Windows 10. Businesses risk falling behind in user experience and productivity features available only in Windows 11.
Hardware May Still Be Aging
Even if Windows 10 is supported until 2026, your physical machines are still aging. Old hardware often becomes the weakest link—slower, less reliable, and harder to secure against modern threats.
Obtaining Extended Support
Step 1, go to Settings, and locate the section that states “Enroll in Extended Support Updates”.
Choose Enroll Now.
Step 2, Windows Extended Security Updates (ESU) dialog will appear.
Choose Next.
Step 3, Sign into your Microsoft Account. Enter your account email address.
Again you need to enter your account password.
Enter your two-factor (2fa) code.
You do have 2fa turned on for all your important accounts, right?
Step 4, read the extensive Extended Security Update Terms of Use, and Privacy Statements.
Click Enroll.
That’s it! The next screen will show that you are enrolled.
All done!
For more information, take a look at Microsoft’s Extended Security Update page, here:
