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Use Windows 10 for another year – How does it work?


Plan your transition to Windows 11 or secure additional support for Windows 10 until 2026 with one of the three options. Use the time to prepare for your transition without stress.







1. When does official support for Windows 10 end?
2. Does the end of support mean that Windows 10 will no longer work?
3. Why is the end of support problematic?
4. Is there a way to use Windows 10 securely beyond the end of support date?
5. What options are there for using Windows 10 until October 2026?
6. What exactly is the ESU program?
7. What are the requirements for ESU registration?
8. How does the OneDrive backup option work?
9. What are Microsoft Rewards points?
10. How do I enroll my device in the ESU program?
11. Are there still updates for Microsoft Defender Antivirus?
12. What should I do now?








1.) When does official support for Windows 10 end?




On October 14, 2025, Microsoft will end support for Windows 10.







2.) Does the end of support mean that Windows 10 will no longer work?




No, your Windows 10 PC will continue to work. However, there will be no more security updates, bug fixes, or technical support after this date.







3.) Why is the end of support problematic?




Without updates, your system becomes more vulnerable to security vulnerabilities and cyberattacks. You also lack the protection provided by new security features.







4.) Is there a way to use Windows 10 securely beyond the end of support date?




Yes, Microsoft offers three options to keep Windows 10 running securely until October 2026.







5.) What options are there to use Windows 10 until October 2026?




* Option 1: The paid Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for $30 per device.
* Option 2: Free use via Windows Backup with OneDrive (limited free storage of 5 GB).
* Option 3: Redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points for a free year of updates.







6.) What exactly is the ESU program?




ESU provides critical security updates and protects your device from malware and cyberattacks, but does not offer new features or technical support.







7.) What are the requirements for ESU registration?




Your device must be running Windows 10 version 22H2 , and you need a Microsoft account with administrator privileges.







8.) How does the OneDrive backup option work?




Microsoft allows you to use Windows Backup with OneDrive to receive free updates. However, the free storage is limited to 5 GB, after which a paid upgrade is required.







9.) What are Microsoft Rewards points?




A Microsoft rewards program where you can collect points by using Microsoft services (e.g., Bing search). 1,000 points can be redeemed for a free year of Windows 10 updates.







10.) How do I register my device for the ESU program?




* Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update .
* Click Sign up now .
* Select the option you want (paid, OneDrive, or Rewards points).







11.) Are there still updates for Microsoft Defender Antivirus?




Yes, Microsoft will continue to provide security updates for Defender on Windows 10 until October 2028.







12.) What should I do now?




Plan your transition to Windows 11 or secure additional support for Windows 10 until 2026 with one of the three options. Use the time to prepare for your transition without stress.






FAQ 268: Updated on: 16 July 2025 18:48 Windows
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