Microsoft: Free security updates for Windows 10

Microsoft is granting millions of private users an additional year of free protection for Windows 10. The Redmond-based company is making a surprising about-turn – and is responding to the slow transition to Windows 11.

Updates for Windows 10 were supposed to end on October 14, 2025. But shortly before the deadline, Microsoft is giving in: For the first time, private users can use the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program free of charge. Previously, this service was reserved only for paying business customers.

The decision is no coincidence. Windows 10 still runs on over 53 percent of all Windows installations worldwide. However, many of these computers don't meet the strict hardware requirements for Windows 11. Without updates, millions of PCs would be defenseless against viruses and malware. Advertisement: Many Windows 10 computers are officially considered "incompatible" with Windows 11—and this is precisely where the transition is hampered. However, there is a legal way to bypass the checks and still upgrade safely—without new hardware and without data loss. A free PDF report guides you step-by-step through the process. Download the free report: Bypassing the Windows 11 system requirements .

Three ways to free protection

Starting mid-August 2025, users can sign up for the program via Windows Settings. This requires Windows 10 version 22H2 in the Home, Professional, Pro Education, or Workstation editions.

Microsoft offers three options:

• Use Windows Backup : The easiest and free method. Users simply need to sync their PC settings with a OneDrive account.
• Redeem Microsoft Rewards : 1,000 points from the rewards program are enough for the annual renewal.
• Direct payment : If you do not want to use the other options, you pay 30 euros.

All versions require a Microsoft account, as the license is linked to it. One registration covers up to ten personal devices.

What users can expect – and what they cannot

The free ESU program runs from October 15, 2025, to October 13, 2026. During this period, users will only receive “critical” and “important” security updates.

New features, design changes, or technical support are not included. This makes the offer significantly different from the Enterprise program, which costs companies €61 per device in the first year.

Pragmatic turnaround with ulterior motives

The decision highlights Microsoft's dilemma: Windows 11 is only slowly gaining traction, while Windows 10 continues to dominate. Millions of unprotected PCs would have represented a global security risk—and bad publicity for Microsoft.

But the "free" options have a catch. The requirement for a Microsoft account and OneDrive integration fit Microsoft's strategy of tying users more closely to its own cloud services. Since OneDrive only offers 5 GB for free, larger backups could quickly become chargeable. Advertisement: Use the time you've gained to calmly prepare for the transition to Windows 11. The free "Windows 11 Complete Package" report shows you step by step how to make the transition stress-free, transfer all programs and files, and avoid common mistakes. Ideal for Windows 10 users who want to switch without risk. Request the free "Windows 11 Complete Package" report now.

Delay instead of solution

Microsoft emphasizes that the program is only a one-year grace period. After October 13, 2026, updates for Windows 10 will cease permanently. The goal remains unchanged: users should switch to Windows 11 or new hardware.

After all, this gives millions of Windows 10 users valuable time to make their decision. A year of added security – that's probably worth the cloud connection for many.