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How to Get Windows 10 Security Updates After Support Ends (2027): Complete ESU Guide

Learn how to keep receiving Windows 10 security updates until October 2027 through Microsoft’s Consumer ESU program. This complete guide explains eligibility, enrollment options, costs, requirements, common “Enroll now” issues, and whether you should choose ESU or upgrade to Windows 11.

By M. Usman

Windows 10 support has officially ended, but that doesn’t mean you have to stop using your Windows 10 PC right away.

Microsoft ended standard support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. Your PC will still run after that date, but you won’t get the usual free security updates, new features, or technical support that you were used to during Windows 10’s supported years.

If you need more time before switching to Windows 11 or replacing your current computer, Microsoft offers something called the Windows 10 Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) program.

If your Windows 10 PC is eligible and you enroll in Consumer ESU, you can keep getting critical security updates until October 12, 2027.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through what Windows 10 ESU is, who can sign up, how to enroll, what to do if you don’t see the “Enroll now” option, and how to decide whether ESU or Windows 11 is best for you.

Last updated: August 2026
Keep in mind that Microsoft can update ESU requirements or change enrollment options by region. Before you enroll, it’s a good idea to double-check Microsoft’s official Windows 10 ESU page for the latest information.

Quick Answer: How to Get Windows 10 Security Updates After Support Ends

Yes.

Even though regular Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025, Microsoft is still letting eligible personal Windows 10 PCs sign up for the Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) program.

With Consumer ESU, you’ll continue to get critical security updates all the way through October 12, 2027.

For eligible consumers, Microsoft currently lists three ways you can enroll in ESU:

• Sync your PC settings for free (no extra cost).

• Redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points (if available in your region).

• Make a one-time purchase of USD (or local currency equivalent, plus tax).

You need a Microsoft account to enroll.

Microsoft says you can use one Consumer ESU license on up to 10 devices.

Regional rules can differ, so always check the ESU options shown on your own Windows 10 PC. For the latest details, visit Microsoft’s official ESU page (add your link here).

What Happened to Windows 10 After October 14, 2025?

Windows 10 reached the end of its regular support on October 14, 2025.

Don’t worry—your PC didn’t suddenly stop working on October 15. Windows 10 will still start up, run your apps, let you access your files, and connect to the internet just like before.

The big change is around security and support.

For ordinary Windows 10 installations outside ESU or another applicable servicing program, Microsoft no longer provides the same regular Windows 10 support, including:

• Standard security fixes

• Feature updates

• Normal Windows 10 technical support

• New Windows 10 features and product improvements

This becomes increasingly important as time goes on and new security risks appear.

Hackers and researchers keep finding security flaws even after Microsoft ends support. If you’re not getting Windows updates anymore, your antivirus alone can’t always protect you from these issues inside Windows itself.

That’s why Microsoft suggests upgrading to Windows 11 if you can.

If your computer can’t be upgraded yet, Consumer ESU gives you more time to plan your next step while staying protected.

What Is Windows 10 ESU?

ESU stands for Extended Security Updates.

The Windows 10 Consumer ESU program is designed for people who want to continue using an eligible Windows 10 PC after regular support has ended while retaining access to important security updates.

It is important to understand that ESU does not turn Windows 10 back into a fully supported operating system.

Consumer ESU is primarily a security extension.

Microsoft says it provides security updates classified as critical and important by the Microsoft Security Response Center.

ESU does not generally give you:

• New Windows 10 features

• Feature improvements

• Product enhancements

• A new version of Windows

• General Windows 10 technical support

Think of ESU as additional time to transition rather than a permanent alternative to upgrading.

How Long Will Windows 10 Consumer ESU Last?

Microsoft currently states that Windows 10 PCs enrolled in the Consumer ESU program can receive critical and important security updates through:

October 12, 2027

This date is especially important because some older articles and videos online still mention an earlier 2026 end date.

Microsoft subsequently extended Consumer ESU coverage. If you were already enrolled, Microsoft says coverage automatically continues through October 12, 2027, and no additional action is required for that extension.

You can also enroll later, while the program remains available, but enrolling late does not extend the final date beyond October 12, 2027.

For security reasons, there is little benefit in deliberately leaving an eligible Windows 10 computer unprotected and waiting until later to enroll.

Who Is Eligible for Windows 10 Consumer ESU?

Microsoft says the Consumer ESU program is intended for eligible Windows 10 devices used for personal use.

Your PC should be running:

Windows 10, version 22H2

You should also install the latest available Windows updates before trying to enroll.

Consumer ESU is different from Microsoft’s ESU arrangements for businesses and organizations.

Devices managed by an organization or enrolled in enterprise licensing programs may not qualify through the normal consumer enrollment process and can have separate ESU requirements.

How to Check Your Windows 10 Version

To check which Windows 10 version you are running:

1. Press Windows + R.

2. Type winver.

3. Press Enter.

4. Look for the Windows version displayed in the About Windows window.

For Consumer ESU, you should see Version 22H2.

Alternatively, open:

Settings > System > About

and review your Windows specifications.

Windows 10 ESU Free and Paid Enrollment Options

Microsoft currently lists several ways for eligible consumers to enroll.

Option 1: Sync Your PC Settings

One option is to sync your PC settings using Microsoft’s supported account/backup experience.

Microsoft currently lists this enrollment path at no additional cost.

This may be attractive if you already use a Microsoft account and are comfortable syncing your Windows settings.

Option 2: Use 1,000 Microsoft Rewards Points

Microsoft also allows eligible users in supported markets to redeem:

1,000 Microsoft Rewards points

for ESU enrollment.

Availability can depend on Microsoft Rewards and regional support.

Do not purchase points or make assumptions about availability based on another country’s ESU screen. Check the choices shown on your own PC.

Option 3: Make a One-Time Purchase

Microsoft’s US information currently lists:

USD

or the local currency equivalent, plus applicable tax, as the one-time purchase option.

Local pricing and available payment methods can vary.

One ESU License Can Cover Multiple PCs

Microsoft currently states that an existing Consumer ESU license can be used on up to 10 devices.

Those devices still need to meet the program’s requirements.

Windows 10 ESU in the US vs Europe and the EEA

This is one area where you should be careful with older guides.

Do not use Europe and the European Economic Area (EEA) as interchangeable terms.

The EEA is a specific regional grouping, and Microsoft’s ESU enrollment conditions can vary by market.

For users in the United States and other supported markets, Microsoft’s current general Consumer ESU information presents the available enrollment choices during the enrollment process.

For EEA users, Microsoft has published region-specific information and conditions. Therefore, an EEA user should follow the Microsoft information displayed for their country and the options offered directly by the ESU enrollment wizard.

The safest rule is simple:

Use the enrollment options shown on your own eligible Windows 10 PC and verify regional conditions on Microsoft’s official website.

Do not use VPNs, change account regions, or follow unofficial workarounds simply to force an enrollment method intended for another market.

How to Enroll in Windows 10 ESU

Before starting, install all available Windows updates.

Step 1: Check That You Have Windows 10 22H2

Press:

Windows + R

Enter:

winver

and confirm that your system is running Windows 10 Version 22H2.

If you are using an older Windows 10 release, update the PC before continuing.

Step 2: Install Available Windows Updates

Open:

Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update

Select:

Check for updates

Install the available updates and restart your computer when required.

After restarting, return to Windows Update and check again.

Repeat this process if additional required updates appear.

Step 3: Find the ESU Enrollment Option

Return to:

Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update

On an eligible personal device, look for the ESU enrollment option, including an Enroll now link or related Extended Security Updates message.

Select it to launch the enrollment process.

Step 4: Sign In to Your Microsoft Account

Microsoft requires a Microsoft account for Consumer ESU enrollment.

Follow the on-screen instructions to sign in if necessary.

Make sure you are using the account you want associated with your ESU enrollment.

Step 5: Review the Enrollment Options

Windows should show the enrollment methods available to your account and region.

Depending on availability, these can include:

• Syncing PC settings

• Redeeming Microsoft Rewards points

• Making a one-time purchase

Read the terms displayed on your own PC rather than relying exclusively on screenshots from another country.

Step 6: Complete Enrollment

Select your preferred method and follow the instructions displayed by Microsoft.

Do not close the wizard while enrollment is being processed.

After successful enrollment, your PC should become eligible to receive Consumer ESU security updates through Windows Update.

What If “Enroll Now” Is Missing?

Some Windows 10 users may open Windows Update and fail to find the expected ESU enrollment option.

Before assuming your PC is unsupported, work through these checks.

1. Confirm You Are Running Windows 10 22H2

Open winver.

If your system is not running Windows 10 Version 22H2, update Windows first.

2. Install All Available Updates

Go to:

Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update

Select:

Check for updates

Install everything applicable to your PC and restart.

Then check Windows Update again.

This is particularly important because Microsoft has released updates that address Consumer ESU enrollment problems.

3. Restart the PC

A restart sounds basic, but Windows servicing operations frequently require a reboot before subsequent updates or enrollment components become available.

Restart the PC, open Windows Update again, and check for updates.

4. Check Whether the PC Is Organization-Managed

The Consumer ESU program is for personal-use devices.

If your PC is managed through an organization, domain, enterprise licensing arrangement, or other business-management system, the consumer enrollment process may not apply.

Contact your organization’s IT administrator instead of attempting to force consumer enrollment.

5. Check Your Microsoft Account

Consumer ESU enrollment requires a Microsoft account.

Make sure you can successfully sign in to your Microsoft account and that you use the appropriate account when the enrollment wizard requests it.

6. Update Again If the ESU Wizard Fails

Microsoft has previously fixed problems affecting the Consumer ESU enrollment wizard through Windows updates.

For example, Microsoft documented an issue where the enrollment wizard could fail during enrollment and released an out-of-band update to address it.

Therefore, if the wizard opens but fails, closes unexpectedly, or refuses to complete enrollment, check Windows Update again before trying unofficial fixes.

7. Avoid Registry Hacks From Random Guides

You may find scripts, registry modifications, unofficial activators, or other methods online claiming to enable ESU manually.

Avoid them.

They may not create a legitimate ESU entitlement, can introduce security problems, and can make troubleshooting more difficult.

Use Microsoft’s supported enrollment process.

How to Check Whether Windows 10 ESU Is Working

After enrollment, return to:

Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update

Check the ESU/enrollment information displayed there and continue installing security updates normally through Windows Update.

Microsoft says that once Consumer ESU enrollment is successfully completed, the device begins receiving Extended Security Updates through Windows Update.

You can also review:

Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > View update history

to see recently installed Windows updates.

Do not assume that simply seeing a successful Windows Update check means ESU is active. Look for the enrollment confirmation/status provided by Windows and verify that applicable post-support ESU security updates are being installed.

Does Windows 10 ESU Include Feature Updates?

No.

This is one of the biggest misconceptions about ESU.

The Consumer ESU program is focused on critical and important security updates.

It does not mean Microsoft has restarted full development of Windows 10.

You should not expect ESU to provide:

• Major new Windows features

• Windows 11 features ported to Windows 10

• Design improvements

• Normal feature development

• General Windows 10 technical support

If you want Microsoft’s actively supported Windows platform with ongoing feature development, Windows 11 is the long-term path.

Is Antivirus Enough Without ESU?

Antivirus software remains useful, but it is not a substitute for operating-system security updates.

Antivirus products can detect or block many malicious files and behaviors. However, if a vulnerability exists inside Windows itself, the proper solution may require Microsoft to patch the affected operating-system component.

Microsoft makes the same distinction in its Windows 10 end-of-support guidance.

For a Windows 10 computer that remains online and is used for normal daily activities, continuing to receive operating-system security updates is much safer than relying on antivirus software alone.

Windows 10 ESU vs Windows 11

ESU can be useful, but it should be considered a transition option.

When ESU Makes Sense

Consumer ESU can make sense when:

• Your PC still works well.

• You need more time before replacing it.

• An important application or workflow still depends on Windows 10.

• Your PC cannot officially upgrade to Windows 11.

• You want security coverage while planning your migration.

When You Should Consider Windows 11

Windows 11 is generally the better long-term option when:

• Your PC officially meets Windows 11 requirements.

• Your software and peripherals are compatible.

• You want ongoing features and security improvements.

• You plan to keep the computer for several more years.

How to Check Whether Your PC Can Run Windows 11

Before deciding to remain on Windows 10, check whether your computer can officially upgrade to Windows 11.

Start with:

Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update

Windows may tell you whether the device meets Windows 11 requirements.

You can also use Microsoft’s PC Health Check application to check compatibility.

Windows 11 requirements include hardware and security requirements that some older Windows 10 computers do not meet.

If your PC is compatible, upgrading to Windows 11 is usually a better long-term option than just relying on ESU until 2027.

Internal link opportunity:
How to Check If Your PC Can Upgrade to Windows 11 (add your internal link here)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Windows 10 still safe to use in 2026?

Windows 10 can still operate, but standard support ended on October 14, 2025. An eligible personal PC enrolled in Consumer ESU can continue receiving critical and important security updates through October 12, 2027.

Security also depends on factors such as keeping applications updated, using safe browsing habits, maintaining backups, and using appropriate security software.

Is Windows 10 ESU free?

Microsoft currently offers a no-additional-cost enrollment path for eligible users who sync their PC settings. It also lists an option to redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points and a one-time USD/local-equivalent purchase option, subject to availability and regional conditions.

How much does Windows 10 ESU cost?

Microsoft’s US information currently lists a one-time purchase of USD, or the local currency equivalent, plus applicable tax.

Check the enrollment wizard for the price and options available in your country.

Do I need a Microsoft account for ESU?

Yes. Microsoft states that you need to sign in to a Microsoft account to enroll in the Consumer ESU program.

Can one ESU license cover multiple computers?

Microsoft currently says an existing Consumer ESU license can be used on up to 10 devices.

Each device still needs to satisfy the relevant eligibility requirements.

Can I enroll after Windows 10 support has already ended?

Yes. Microsoft says eligible consumers can enroll while the program remains available.

However, the final Consumer ESU date does not move forward based on when you join. Coverage is currently scheduled through October 12, 2027.

If I already enrolled before the extension, do I need to enroll again?

According to Microsoft’s current guidance, no. Existing Consumer ESU coverage automatically continues through October 12, 2027.

Will ESU make Windows 10 fully supported again?

No.

ESU provides eligible security updates but does not restore normal Windows 10 feature development, product enhancements, or full technical support.

Will Windows 10 stop working after ESU ends?

The end of ESU does not mean Windows automatically stops booting.

However, once applicable security-update coverage ends, continuing to use an unpatched operating system—especially on an internet-connected PC—can expose the device to increasing security risks.

What should I do if “Enroll now” does not appear?

First, confirm Windows 10 Version 22H2, install all available Windows updates, restart the computer, and check Windows Update again.

Also make sure you are dealing with a personal-use PC rather than an organization-managed device.

If the enrollment wizard itself fails, install the latest applicable Windows updates because Microsoft has previously released fixes specifically for ESU enrollment problems.

Should You Use Windows 10 ESU or Upgrade Now?

There is no single answer for every PC.

If your existing computer supports Windows 11 and all of your important software and hardware work correctly with it, upgrading is usually the more sensible long-term route.

If the PC cannot officially run Windows 11, replacing perfectly usable hardware immediately may not be practical for everyone.

That is where Consumer ESU can help.

It gives eligible Windows 10 users additional time to plan an upgrade or replacement while continuing to receive critical and important security updates.

The key word is time.

ESU should be treated as a transition period rather than a permanent way to remain on Windows 10.

Final Thoughts

Windows 10’s normal support lifecycle is over, but eligible consumers still have a supported way to receive important security updates.

The main points to remember are:

• Windows 10 regular support ended on October 14, 2025.

• Consumer ESU is available for eligible personal Windows 10 PCs.

• The device should be running Windows 10 Version 22H2.

• Consumer ESU provides critical and important security updates.

• Current Consumer ESU coverage runs through October 12, 2027.

• Microsoft currently offers multiple enrollment methods, including no-additional-cost and paid options, depending on eligibility and region.

• You need a Microsoft account to enroll.

• ESU is a temporary security bridge, not a replacement for moving to a supported operating system.

If you plan to keep using Windows 10, do not ignore the end of regular support. Check your ESU eligibility, keep Windows and your applications updated, maintain reliable backups, and start planning your eventual move to Windows 11 or another supported platform.

Official Microsoft Sources

For the latest information, always verify ESU details directly from Microsoft before enrollment:

• Microsoft — Windows 10 Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) (Microsoft Windows 10 End of Support)

• Microsoft — Windows 10 End of Support (Microsoft Windows 10 Consumer ESU)

• Microsoft Support — Windows 10 Support Ended on October 14, 2025

• Microsoft Support — Windows 10 ESU servicing and enrollment updates