Microsoft has officially extended its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10, adding another year to the support timeline. Originally set to conclude on October 12, 2026, the new end date is now October 12, 2027. This decision comes as the company faces challenges in transitioning users to Windows 11.
Windows 10 reached the end of its official support in 2025, but the company recognized the need for continued updates due to the significant number of users still operating on this version. The last regular updates for Windows 10 were released in October 2022, and the ongoing risks associated with unpatched systems prompted Microsoft to offer a free year of extended updates.
Despite Windows 11’s release nearly five years ago, adoption has been slow. As of now, Windows 10 is still active on approximately 26 percent of PCs, while Windows 11 accounts for around 72 percent. The slow uptake of Windows 11 can be attributed to several factors, including hardware requirements that necessitate newer CPUs and a Trusted Platform Module (TPM), which have left many older PCs unsupported.
Additionally, the current market conditions, influenced by an AI-driven shortage of storage and memory, have made upgrading systems more costly. Some users are also hesitant to switch due to Microsoft’s emphasis on AI features in Windows 11.
To enroll in the ESU program, users can find the option in the Windows Update menu. In the EU, these updates are provided free of charge, while users in other regions must sign in with a Microsoft account and sync their settings to qualify for free updates. Otherwise, joining the program costs $30 or 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points. The ESU license allows updates on up to 10 devices for personal use, while businesses must pay per device.
As it stands, Microsoft may continue to release updates for Windows 10 even beyond the new 2028 timeline, reflecting the operating system’s persistent popularity.
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