Microsoft Offers Free Windows 10 Extended Security Updates with Windows Backup Activation
Microsoft is offering free Extended Security Updates for Windows 10 users who enable Windows Backup, with alternative paid options available.
Microsoft has announced that consumers can enroll in its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10 at no cost ahead of the operating system's end of support on October 14, 2025. To qualify for the free ESU, users must enable Windows Backup, which synchronizes settings and folders to the cloud via OneDrive. While OneDrive provides 5GB of free storage, users with extensive local files may need to purchase additional space for full functionality. Alternatively, consumers can opt to pay a $30 fee for a year of updates or redeem 1,000 Microsoft Reward points. An enrollment wizard will be added to Windows 10 in July to facilitate these options. According to Yusuf Mehdi, executive vice president and consumer chief marketing officer at Microsoft, once an option is selected and the on-screen steps are followed, the PC will automatically be enrolled. Consumers will receive extended security updates until October 13, 2026, while businesses have the option to purchase up to three years of important security updates. Additionally, Microsoft is offering free ESU for Windows 10 devices accessing Windows 11 Cloud PCs through Windows 365 and Virtual Machines. Microsoft has referred to 2025 as 'the year of the Windows 11 PC refresh.'