Windows 10 Support Ends in 2025 – Here’s How to Stay Secure Until 2026 with Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates
Still on Windows 10? You’re Not Alone
If you’re one of the millions of people still running Windows 10, you’ve probably seen the headlines: Microsoft is ending support on October 14, 2025.
That means no more free security patches, feature updates, or technical support. But don’t panic; Microsoft understands that not everyone is ready (or able) to upgrade just yet. That’s why they’ve introduced something called the Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program.
At The PC Guy, we’ve had a lot of customers ask what this means and how it affects them, so let’s break it down simply.
What Is the Extended Security Updates (ESU) Program?
The ESU program is Microsoft’s way of giving Windows 10 users a little more breathing room.
Starting after October 14, 2025, the ESU program will continue delivering critical and important security updates for an extra year until October 13, 2026.
In other words: you won’t get new features or big upgrades, but you will still receive essential patches that protect you from new viruses, malware, and security threats.
Who Should Consider the ESU Program?
The ESU program is perfect for:
- Small businesses that rely on older software or hardware that isn’t compatible with Windows 11 yet.
- Home users who are comfortable with their current PC and don’t want to buy new hardware before they have to.
- Anyone who wants to stay secure while planning their upgrade carefully instead of rushing into it.
What You Need to Enroll
Here’s what Microsoft requires if you want to keep receiving updates through ESU:
1. You must be running Windows 10, version 22H2 (the last major update).
2. You’ll need to sign in with a Microsoft Account – ESU enrolment isn’t available for local-only accounts.
3. You’ll need to pay a small yearly fee (Microsoft hasn’t confirmed final pricing in all regions yet).
4. Your PC must already be activated and licensed properly.
Once enrolled, your Windows 10 system will continue to receive critical security updates automatically, just like it does now.
What the ESU Program Doesn’t Include
It’s important to understand that the ESU program isn’t a full extension of Windows 10 support. You will not get:
- New features or design updates
- Bug fixes for non-security issues
- Technical support from Microsoft
Think of it as a safety net not a long-term solution. It’s designed to buy you time while you plan your move to Windows 11 or your next device.
How Long Can You Stay on ESU?
At the moment, Microsoft plans to keep ESU available for one year beyond 2025, up to October 13, 2026.
That’s an extra 12 months of security protection giving you time to plan your next steps without losing peace of mind.
How The PC Guy Can Help?
Here at The PC Guy, we can help you:
- Check if your PC is compatible with Windows 11
- Enroll you safely into the Windows 10 Extended Security Updates program
- Set up automatic backups and antivirus protection
- Plan an affordable upgrade path for when you’re ready
We’ve already helped dozens of local customers in Perth stay secure, avoid upgrade headaches, and extend the life of their PCs, and we can help you too.
Ready to Stay Secure Until 2026?
If you’d like help enrolling in Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates for Windows 10 or you’re not sure whether to upgrade or extend, reach out to The PC Guy today.
👉 Call us at 0439 333 449
👉 Email info@thepcguy.com.au
