Microsoft announced an official one-year extension to the Extended Security Updates (ESU) plan for Windows 10, now ending on October 12, 2027, instead of October 2026 as originally planned [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]. Windows 10’s regular support ended on October 14, 2025, making ESU the sole way for users to receive security patches [2]. The company said the extension aims to provide a "more relaxed transition window to move from Windows 10 to Windows 11 devices without rushing or pressure," according to an official statement [3].
Windows 10 still holds around 26% of the global desktop operating system market as of May-June 2026, while Windows 11 accounts for about 72% [1, 2]. The slower migration to Windows 11 is mainly caused by its strict hardware requirements. Many PCs running Windows 10 lack TPM 2.0, secure boot, or compatible processors, which block them from upgrading [1]. Consumer and environmental groups have criticized these requirements for encouraging forced hardware replacements and e-waste [1].
The ESU extension offers continued security updates to Windows 10 users, easing risks on millions of devices worldwide that remain active [2, 3, 4, 5]. Individual users with Microsoft accounts can receive ESU updates free, while those without accounts pay $30 per year [2]. Enterprise customers can extend support up to October 2028, but fees double annually, rising from $61 for the first year to $244 by the third [2]. In the European Union, Windows 10 ESU updates are free under the Digital Markets Act consumer protection law [4].
To stay eligible for ESU, Windows 10 users must register before the October 12, 2027 deadline. Options for free eligibility include redeeming Microsoft Rewards points or enabling Windows backup syncing to OneDrive [5]. OSnews summarized the situation by stating, "Microsoft really doesn’t have any other choice but to keep extending support for Windows 10," reflecting the ongoing challenges users face switching to Windows 11 [4].
