Editor’s note (Updated June 25, 2026):
We’ve updated this post to reflect that the Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for personal use devices is being provided an additional year, with coverage now available through October 12, 2027. This extension provides customers with more time to transition to a new Windows 11 PC while continuing to receive critical security updates.
Technology continues to evolve, and so do the requirements for operating systems and devices. This ensures that users always benefit from the latest security features and innovations.
Support for Windows 10 will end on 14 October 2025. After this date, affected devices will no longer receive security or feature updates. Users currently running Windows 10 can easily check whether their PC is eligible for an upgrade to Windows 11: simply click on the Start button, navigate to “Settings” > “Update & Security” > “Windows Update”, or use the PC Health App to verify if the system requirements for Windows 11 are met. The upgrade to Windows 11 is free of charge.
The Extended Security Update (ESU):
For those who are unable or unwilling to upgrade at this time, the Extended Security Update (ESU) programme offers the opportunity to continue receiving critical security updates for Windows 10. For the first time, Microsoft is also making this option available to private users. ESU support for personal devices will run from 15 October 2025 to 13 October 2026. A setup assistant will be available via notifications and within settings, enabling users to register directly for the ESU programme from their personal Windows 10 PC.
Information for private users:
Private users in the European Economic Area (EEA) – including Switzerland – can choose between two options.
- Enroll with your Microsoft account. Sign in to your PC with a Microsoft account (MSA) and stay signed in to receive ESU updates at no additional cost. If your MSA is not used to sign in for a period of up to 60 days, ESU updates will be discontinued, and you’ll need to re-enroll by signing in using the same MSA.
- One-time purchase. If you prefer not to stay signed in with your MSA, you can enroll in ESU with a one-time purchase of $30 USD (or local currency equivalent) plus applicable tax. To use this option, you must first sign in with your MSA to enroll. After you enroll, you can continue to use a local account.
ESU enrollment will begin in early October. The latest Windows update is required. ESU registration options for the European Economic Area also include Switzerland.
Further details can be found here: