ScreenConnectWithout ESU
Microsoft no longer provides free Windows 10 security fixes, reliability updates, feature updates, or ordinary technical support.
Current status · Updated July 2026
Windows 10 22H2 reached end of support.
The October 14, 2025 date applies to mainstream Windows 10 Home, Pro, Enterprise, and Education releases. Some LTSC and specialized editions have different lifecycle dates and should be checked separately.
With ESU
Enrolled PCs receive critical and important security updates. ESU does not include new features, general support, design changes, or routine non-security fixes.
Microsoft 365 Apps
The apps may continue to run, and Microsoft plans security updates through October 10, 2028. The apps are no longer supported on Windows 10, and other updates and support are limited.
Personal computers
Consumer ESU now runs through October 12, 2027.
Microsoft added a second year of consumer coverage in June 2026. PCs that were already enrolled continue automatically; an eligible personal PC can still enroll before the program ends.
Eligible personal PCs
The PC must run an up-to-date Windows 10 22H2 Home, Pro, Pro Education, or Pro for Workstations edition. Enrollment requires a non-child Microsoft account with administrator access.
Three enrollment choices
Sync Windows settings at no additional cost, redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points, or make a one-time $30 purchase. One enrolled license can cover up to 10 eligible PCs.
Enroll in Windows Update
Open Settings, select Update & Security, then Windows Update and Enroll now. Install all available Windows updates first if the enrollment link is missing.
Personal use only: Consumer ESU is not for commercial scenarios. Domain-joined, Microsoft Entra-joined, MDM-managed, and kiosk devices use Microsoft’s commercial enrollment routes.
Business computers
Commercial ESU is a separate annual license.
For organizations, Microsoft lists first-year Windows 10 ESU at $61 per device. It is purchased by year, the price doubles in each consecutive year, and coverage is available for a maximum of three years through October 10, 2028. A business that joins later must also pay for the earlier years because commercial ESU licenses are cumulative.
Commercial ESU provides critical and important security updates for eligible Windows 10 22H2 devices. It does not restore normal Windows support or include new features and non-security improvements.
Choose the next step
Upgrade, use ESU temporarily, or replace the PC.
The right choice depends on supported Windows 11 eligibility, hardware condition, required software and peripherals, backup status, and how long the computer still needs to remain in service.
Compatible hardware
Upgrade to Windows 11
Confirm eligibility with Windows Update or Microsoft’s PC Health Check, then review software, peripherals, storage, and backups before installing the free upgrade.
More transition time
Use the correct ESU program
Consumer ESU can keep an eligible personal PC covered through October 12, 2027. Business devices need the commercial program. Either option is a security bridge, not full Windows 10 support.
Aging or incompatible hardware
Replace the PC and migrate
Select a Windows 11 PC that fits the workload, move files and settings, reconnect accounts and cloud storage, reinstall required software, test peripherals, and verify backups before retiring the old device.
Current Microsoft guidance
Verify dates, eligibility, and licensing with Microsoft.
Microsoft can revise ESU timing and terms. These official pages are the source of record for consumer enrollment, commercial licensing, and Microsoft 365 support.
Check the actual computer
Upgrade, ESU, or replacement?
Send the PC model, whether it is used personally or for business, what software and peripherals it needs, and whether its files are backed up.
