Windows 10: security updates continue to October 12, 2027, but only if your computer is enrolled

What's changing

Microsoft stopped its regular support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. Microsoft says that since then, a Windows 10 computer no longer receives security updates unless it's enrolled in a program called Extended Security Updates, or ESU. A home computer that isn't enrolled is getting no security fixes at all.

In June 2026 Microsoft extended that program. Microsoft's ESU page now says enrolled computers get critical and important security updates through October 12, 2027, and that if you're already enrolled, your coverage continues to that date automatically. BleepingComputer reported the change on June 25, 2026; before it, coverage was due to end in October 2026.

That's why you may read two different dates. Articles written before June 2026 give the old one. October 12, 2027 is the date on Microsoft's own page today.

What ESU does, and doesn't do

ESU sends security fixes only. Microsoft says it doesn't bring new features, other repairs, or technical support. Your computer keeps working either way. The difference is that without security fixes, it becomes easier for harmful software to get in, which matters most for banking and email.

You can enroll at any time until October 12, 2027. Microsoft says that once you do, your computer receives all the security updates released since October 14, 2025, but that until you enroll it is more exposed to viruses and harmful software. So if you're going to enroll, sooner is better.

How to tell where you stand

1. Click the Start button, then Settings, then Update & Security, then Windows Update.
2. If your computer can move to Windows 11 for free, it often says so on this screen.
3. If you're enrolled in ESU, this screen shows it. If you aren't and your computer qualifies, you'll see a link that says Enroll now.

Microsoft also offers a free program called PC Health Check that says whether your computer can run Windows 11, and why not if it can't. The Windows 11 requirements are on Microsoft's site.

Your three choices

A. Move to Windows 11, if your computer can

Microsoft says the upgrade is free for computers that run Windows 10 version 22H2 and meet the requirements. It comes through Windows Update. Back up your photos and documents first.

B. Enroll in Extended Security Updates

Microsoft lists three ways to enroll: at no cost if your computer backs up its settings to your Microsoft account, by redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points, or with a one-time payment of $30 plus tax. One enrollment covers up to 10 computers. You need Windows 10 version 22H2 with the latest updates, and a Microsoft account that is an administrator on the computer. If you sign in to Windows without a Microsoft account, it will ask you to sign in to one.

C. Replace the computer before October 12, 2027

If your computer is old enough that it can't run Windows 11, this is the time to plan its replacement, without hurry. Think about what you actually do on it. If it's mostly email, video calls and reading, a tablet or a Chromebook may do. If you print, keep files, or use programs you've bought, a Windows 11 computer or a Mac will suit better. A refurbished computer can cost less than a new one.

Step by step

1. Check your version. Go to Settings, then System, then About, and look for "Version." You need 22H2.
2. Install all updates. In Windows Update, click "Check for updates" until it says you're up to date.
3. Check for the Windows 11 offer. If it's there and you're comfortable, back up and upgrade.
4. If not, enroll in ESU with the Enroll now link, and choose the free option if it suits you.
5. Back up your photos and documents to an external drive or to cloud storage.
6. Decide by the summer of 2027 what you'll use after October 12, 2027, so nothing is rushed.

What it costs

Moving to Windows 11 is free on a computer that qualifies. ESU is free with settings backup, 1,000 Rewards points, or $30 plus tax. A new or refurbished computer is the only real expense, and it's optional until your plans say otherwise.

If you use Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, Outlook) on Windows 10, Microsoft says it will keep sending security updates for those apps until October 10, 2028. Office 2021, one of the versions people bought once rather than by subscription, reached the end of its support in October 2026. Office 2024, the newer bought-once version, is still supported, but on Windows 10 Microsoft says it won't help with a problem it finds is caused by Windows 10.

Scams that ride along with this change

A date like this is a gift to tech-support scammers. Here's how they usually show up:

• A pop-up saying Windows 10 is "expired" or "infected," with a phone number to call. Microsoft says its error and warning messages never include a phone number. The FTC's guide to tech support scams says the same of any real security warning. Close the browser. If it won't close, restart the computer.
• A phone call from "Microsoft" about your computer. Microsoft says it doesn't make unsolicited calls to offer support. Hang up. Never let a caller connect to your computer.
• "Windows 11 upgrade" or "ESU license" offers by email or on websites. The free upgrade and ESU enrollment both happen inside Windows Update on your own computer. You don't need to download them from anywhere else.
• Payment in gift cards or Bitcoin. Microsoft says it never asks for either.