Windows 10 ESU: price, enrolment and duration
Home users can enrol in Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) until 12 October 2027. Three options according to Microsoft: free by syncing the PC’s settings, 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points, or a one-off purchase of about 30 US dollars. They only contain security fixes.
What ESU is
Since 14 October 2025, Windows 10 no longer receives free security fixes. The ESU programme lets you keep receiving critical and important updates until 12 October 2027. It includes neither new features nor technical support, except for ESU activation and installing ESU updates.
The three ways to enrol
| Option | Cost according to Microsoft |
|---|---|
| Sync the PC’s settings | No additional cost |
| Microsoft Rewards points | 1,000 points |
| One-off purchase | About 30 US dollars or the local equivalent, plus tax |
Options and timing may vary by region, notably in the European Economic Area: check what Windows Update offers on your PC. One enrolment covers up to 10 devices.
Requirements
- Windows 10 version 22H2 (Home, Pro, Pro Education or Workstations), up to date.
- A Microsoft administrator account (not a child account).
- No device joined to an Active Directory domain or Entra, or managed by MDM: those cases fall under business ESU.
To enrol: Settings › Update & Security › Windows Update, then “Enroll now”.
ESU or Windows 11?
ESU buys time, but ends on 12 October 2027. If your PC is compatible, moving to Windows 11 is the lasting solution: check compatibility. Otherwise, re-read the end of support for Windows 10.