The support for Windows 10 ends on October 14, 2023, and users need to upgrade to Windows 11 or enroll in Microsoft's Extended Security Updates (ESU) program to continue receiving security patches. The ESU program is now open to all Windows 10 22H2 users in the US, offering critical security updates until October 13, 2026, with options to enroll via points, OneDrive backup, or a paid $30 plan. Upgrading to Windows 11 may not be possible for all due to hardware requirements, but Windows 10 users can still use Office apps for three more years with only security updates.
Consumer Reports is urging Microsoft to extend support for Windows 10 beyond the October 14 deadline, citing concerns over millions of users with incompatible hardware for Windows 11 and the potential cybersecurity risks of ending free updates, while criticizing Microsoft's pricing and support policies.
Microsoft offers a way for Windows 10 users to extend security updates until October 2026 through the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which can be accessed for free if enrolled before October 14, 2025, by using Microsoft Rewards points, syncing backups, or paying $30, providing an additional year to upgrade or switch devices.
Microsoft is offering a free 12-month support extension for Windows 10 users due to recent problematic updates, with a deadline to enroll by October 13 before Windows 10 reaches end-of-life on October 14. Users need to act quickly to ensure their PCs remain protected, as the enrollment button is rolling out gradually.
A user is suing Microsoft to extend free support for Windows 10 beyond its scheduled end on October 14, citing concerns over security and costs, with about 700 million users potentially affected. Microsoft offers paid extended security updates until October 2026, but the lawsuit aims for free support, highlighting ongoing debates about OS support durations.
Microsoft has reversed its October deadline for Windows 10, now offering 700 million users two free options: upgrade to Windows 11 or extend Windows 10 support until October 2026, with an additional paid option. Users with eligible PCs are encouraged to upgrade to Windows 11 for better security, while others can extend support or use rewards points. The decision aims to prevent inertia and ensure users stay protected, but it may slow upgrade momentum.
Microsoft has extended Windows 10 support until October 2026 at no cost for over 400 million users, reversing previous plans to end support in October 2025, which may impact upgrade rates and hardware upgrade incentives.
Microsoft is offering extended support for Windows 10 through its ESU program, which can be accessed by paying for Microsoft 365 or additional OneDrive storage, effectively incentivizing users to upgrade or stay on Windows 10 by rewarding their subscription payments with more updates. The program is also available for enterprise users at a cost per device, with virtual and cloud environments receiving updates at no extra charge.
