How to keep Windows 10 safe for another year with free extended updates

Monday, 20 October 2025 at 12:53

Running a system with Windows 10 is now as risky as it gets. This is because Microsoft has moved past the 10-year-old system and wants nothing with it anymore. The company will no longer maintain your system - no updates or bug fixes anymore.

This is a big issue because it means your system will be exposed to hackers and all kinds of flaws that will never get fixed.

But there’s some relief. Microsoft has quietly opened a way for regular users — not just businesses — to keep getting updates for one more year. The company calls it the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. Normally, this kind of support costs money and is only offered to companies that pay big licensing fees. This time, however, anyone can join for free — as long as you agree to one small condition.

Why extended support matters

Security updates are the digital version of vaccines. They patch weaknesses that hackers could use to sneak into your PC. A system without regular updates is like a soldier in war without a gun.

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Unfortunately, millions of people globally still use Windows 10. This makes it a lucrative target for hackers.

Microsoft’s choice to give home users one more year of protection is rare. In the past, only businesses could buy extra support when an older version hit its end of life. This new move buys people more time before they have to jump to Windows 11 — or whatever comes next.

Step 1: Sign in with a Microsoft account

The first thing you need is a Microsoft account. You can’t join the ESU program if you’re still using a local account that doesn’t sync online. Then, follow the steps below

Open Settings on your Windows 10 PC.

Go to Accounts and then select Your info.

Check if it says you’re using a local account.

If so, click the link to sign in with a Microsoft account instead.

You can use an existing Outlook, Hotmail, or Xbox login.

If you don’t have a Microsoft account, create one on the spot.

Note: This step isn’t optional — Microsoft will check that you stay signed in during the free support year.

Microsoft will use your account to confirm that your PC stays eligible for updates. And yes, it keeps checking over time — so you can’t just sign in once and switch back to a local account later.

Step 2: Open Windows Update

To open Windows Update and start the ESU enrolment process, follow these steps:

Type Windows Update into the search bar at the bottom of your screen.
Click the Windows Update result that appears.
Look for a message that says something like “Windows 10 support ends in October 2025.”
Just below that message, click the new button labeled Enrol now. This begins the sign-up process for the Extended Security Updates program.
If you don’t see the option immediately, don’t worry — Microsoft is rolling it out gradually, so it may take a few days before it appears on your PC.

Step 3: Enrol for extended updates

Next, a window pops up explaining that you can continue getting critical security patches until October 2026. It may sound too good to be true, but it’s legit — this comes directly through Windows Update.

Click Next, then Enrol to move forward. Microsoft will remind you to read its terms of use and privacy statement, which you can open in new tabs if you want the details.

Step 4: Sync your settings to OneDrive

Here’s the catch: to get the updates for free, you have to sync your Windows settings to OneDrive. That’s Microsoft’s cloud storage service, and this requirement is how the company justifies giving away a year of support.

Don’t panic — you’re not uploading personal files or photos. The sync only includes things like desktop layout, system preferences, and login settings. It doesn’t touch your documents or apps.

If you already use OneDrive or have settings sync turned on, you’ll see a message confirming that you qualify for updates at “no extra cost.” Click Enrol, and you’re done.

If you haven’t synced before, click the option to back up your settings. It only takes a minute, and once that’s done, select Next, then Enrol again.

Step 5: Optional paid routes

If you don’t want to link your PC to OneDrive, there are two other ways in — but neither is free. You can either pay $30 for the year or use 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points. The latter can be earned through things like Bing searches or Microsoft Store purchases, but unless you already have them saved up, syncing your settings is the simpler route.

What happens next

After you’re enrolled, your PC will continue to receive monthly updates just like before. They’ll show up through Windows Update with labels such as “Extended Security Update (ESU)”.

You’ll stay covered until October 2026, after which Microsoft will finally stop issuing patches for Windows 10 altogether. That gives you twelve more months to plan your next move — whether that’s switching to Windows 11, buying a new device, or exploring alternative systems.

Common questions

Can I use a temporary Microsoft account?

No. Microsoft regularly checks to ensure you’re still using the same account tied to your PC. If it detects that you’ve reverted to a local account, you could lose access to the updates.

Will syncing to OneDrive slow down my computer?

Not really. It only transfers small configuration files, not large data. The sync occurs quietly in the background and doesn’t consume much space.

What if I can’t see the enrol button yet?

Don’t panic. The rollout is happening slowly worldwide. Keep checking Windows Update every few days — it will appear eventually.

Why Microsoft is doing this

While it may look like generosity, this move also serves Microsoft’s own interests. Millions of people still haven’t upgraded to Windows 11, often because their PCs don’t meet the strict hardware rules. Offering a free year of protection avoids a sudden flood of insecure systems on the internet. It’s a practical compromise that keeps users safe while giving them more time to transition.

One more year of safety

If you’re not ready to leave Windows 10 behind, this program is a welcome grace period. Signing up only takes a few minutes and saves you from running an unprotected computer.

Just make sure you stay signed in to your Microsoft account and keep your settings synced. That’s the key to unlocking a full extra year of updates — no payments, no gimmicks, and no risky third-party hacks.

By this time next year, though, the countdown will end for real. For now, you’ve got a little breathing room — one more year to make the move safely and on your own terms.