Microsoft has announced that it will end support for Windows 10 in October 2025. However, the company has confirmed that it will offer free Windows 10 security updates until 2026 for certain users through its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program.
In a major development for existing Windows 10 users, Microsoft has now revealed that it will officially discontinue support for the operating system on October 14, 2025. Despite this, the company has assured users that some essential updates will still be provided till 2028. Moreover, Windows 10 users can now receive an additional year of security updates for free by opting into Windows Backup, an app that backs up settings and files using a Microsoft account.
Microsoft lists out final Windows 10 update policy: Key details
Microsoft has shared a detailed post on the changes coming with Windows 10 support, confirming that after nearly a decade of updates since its inception in July 2015, support will end on Oct. 14, 2025. This means that the most popular operating system from the company will no longer receive security patches, new features, or official technical assistance, and the firm now recommends existing users to update to Windows 11 for future security assistance.
However, Microsoft is extending Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) for an extra year or till October 13, 2026, by letting users either pay a small fee of $30 (around Rs 2600) or by opting into the Windows Backup app, which lets users back up settings and files using a Microsoft account. Alternatively, ESU updates can also be extended by redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points, earned through activities like Microsoft account purchases or multiple Bing searches on various platforms of the company.
It's worth noting that ESU updates do not cover new features, non-security updates, or design change requests. However, it will still let users download essential security updates to safeguard their devices from phishing attacks. Microsoft has also confirmed that Microsoft 365 apps and Defender antivirus will continue to receive security updates on both personal and business accounts until October 10, 2028.
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