What to Do Before Microsoft Cuts Off Support for Windows 10 Next Week

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Attention, PC users: The end of Windows 10 support is just one week away. Microsoft is cutting off most support for the older operating system on Oct. 14, 2025, pushing users toward Windows 11. That said, the company is giving users who can't (or don't want to) let go of Windows 10 more options to receive security updates for an additional year.

One of the risks of not upgrading to Windows 11 by the deadline is that your device won't be protected against viruses and hackers—unless you take advantage of one of the free or paid options to enroll in Extended Security Updates (ESU). (Note that Microsoft has also extended support for Microsoft 365 apps on Windows 10 through Oct. 10, 2028.)

How to get Windows 10 extended security updates

Windows 10 users were already able to pay $30 for a year ESU coverage, which you can still do, but Microsoft is offering two additional options to protect your device at no cost. You can either opt into Windows Backup to sync your settings to the cloud or redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points, which are accrued when you purchase or otherwise engage with Microsoft services, including Bing. Note that both of these "free" alternatives require you to have (or sign up for) a Microsoft account.

If you're still on Windows 10, you should have received a push notification about the program. If not, or if you missed it, you can find the enrollment wizard in your Settings app. Update your PC to the latest version if you haven't already, then head back to Settings > Windows Update to look for the "Windows 10 support ends in October 2025" and "Enroll in Extended Security Updates to help keep your device secure." There, you can choose any of the three enrollment options to ensure your PC receives any future critical security updates.

Microsoft does not consider this a long-term solution, however. The extended coverage starts Oct. 15, and will last until Oct. 13, 2026, with critical security updates delivered on a monthly basis. Note that ESU does not include new features, non-security updates, design change requests, or tech support.

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