Microsoft provides free year of security updates for Windows 10 users

In a significant move announced on June 25, 2025, Microsoft introduced a free Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10 users, enabling them to extend support for an additional year. This decision comes just over 100 days before the end of official support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. Previously, users would have had to pay a fee of $30 to access this extension, but the new offering makes it accessible for free under certain conditions. Users must link their Microsoft account and sync their settings to the cloud, allowing them to enroll in the program. Upon following the enrollment process through Settings, users can easily check for eligibility and complete the enrollment. This program marks a notable shift in Microsoft's approach toward user support, aiming to retain customers who might otherwise be forced to upgrade to Windows 11 due to the ending support deadline. The response from the tech community has been largely positive, as organizations and individual users alike prepare for the transition amidst concerns over automatic deletions and other issues associated with Windows 11. As the deadline approaches, users who delay may find it challenging to make informed decisions regarding their operating systems, but Microsoft's new initiative provides crucial breathing room to adapt to future changes in their lineup.