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**Update – If you want to see the status of the ESU availability on your computer, check out this video.
If you are still running Windows 10 on your computer and are not ready to upgrade to Windows 11 or your computer cannot run Windows 11, then you need to get ready for Windows 10 support to end on October 14th, 2025.
With this in mind, don’t get too upset yet because Microsoft as announced that you can extend your Windows 10 support for an additional year (To October 2026). You have several options as to how you can extend your Windows 10 support for an additional year. You should have no problems choosing one of these options to extend your support.
If you go to the Windows 10 settings and then to Windows Update, you may have a message saying Windows10 support ends in October 2025. Then below that, you will see an option that says Enroll in Extended Security Updates to help keep your device secure.
When you click on the link that says Enroll now, you should see a window asking if you want to enroll in the Extended Security Update (ESU) program.
After clicking the Next button, you should see one or more options depending on how your computer and account are configured. You will need to be logged in with a Microsoft account and be using an activated version of Windows 10 to do this procedure.
The image below is from a Windows 10 computer that has previously been configured to back up its Windows settings which automatically makes it qualify for the extended support.
If you do not have the backup option configured, you will most likely see a screen like the one shown below. You will have three options to choose from to enroll your computer in the extended support program.
Here is what each of these choices will do.
Option 1: Back up your PC Settings
What it is: Sync your PC settings and folders to OneDrive using Windows Backup
How to do it:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update
- Click Enroll now (if available)
- Choose Back up your PC settings
- Sign in with your Microsoft account
- Follow the prompts to enable backup
Option 2: Redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards Points
What it is: Use points earned from Bing searches, Xbox activity, or Microsoft Store purchases
How to do it:
- Sign in with your Microsoft account
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update
- Click Enroll now
- Choose Redeem Rewards points
- Confirm redemption and complete enrollment
Option 3: One-Time Purchase ($30 USD)
What it is: Pay a flat fee for one year of ESU coverage
How to do it:
- Go to Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update
- Click Enroll now
- Choose Purchase ESU
- Complete payment using your Microsoft account
Once you have chosen your option and taken the proper steps, you should see a message saying You’re enrolled in Extended Security Updates through October 13, 2026.
You will also need to make sure that Windows is running the current 22H2 build.
If you do not have the option to enroll in extended support, you can join the Windows Insider Program using the Release Preview Channel but that might be more trouble than its worth. You should also be sure to have the KB5062649 update.
Another suggestion would be to make sure the Connected User Experiences and Telemetry service is set to automatic and running.
You can also open the Windows registry editor (regedit) and navigate to:
Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\DataCollection
If you don’t have the DataCollection key\folder, then make a new key for it under Windows.
Then make sure you have the AllowTelemetry DWORD value, and it’s set to 3. You can right click and add a new DWORD value if you do not have it.
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