Microsoft has officially ended free support for Windows 10, marking the operating system’s transition toward its final phase before end of servicing in October 2025. Despite the introduction of Windows 11 in 2021, Windows 10 remains widely used, powering millions of computers worldwide.
End of Free Support for Windows 10
Microsoft confirmed that free software updates, security fixes, and technical assistance for Windows 10 will end after October 14, 2025.
Devices running the OS will continue to operate but will become increasingly vulnerable to security risks as new threats emerge.
The company released the final mainstream update for Windows 10 in October 2025, confirming the official end of servicing for all supported editions.
Affected Editions and Final Update Details
The October 2025 security update is the last update available for the following editions of Windows 10:
- Windows 10, version 22H2 (Home, Pro, Enterprise, Education, and IoT Enterprise)
- Windows 10 Enterprise 2015 LTSB
- Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSB 2015
After this date, these versions will no longer receive monthly security or preview updates. Users contacting Microsoft Support beyond the deadline will be advised to upgrade to Windows 11 (if the device supports it) or move to a new Windows 11 PC.
Extended Security Updates (ESU) Program for Windows 10
For users who cannot or do not wish to upgrade, Microsoft will offer Extended Security Updates (ESU) for one additional year — from October 15, 2025, to October 13, 2026. This paid program provides critical security patches only, without any new features or design changes.
Enrollment Options and Pricing
For Individual Users
- Free enrollment via Windows Backup synchronization or by redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points
- Paid enrollment option at $30 USD per year
- Access through a new Settings enrollment wizard, launching for Windows Insiders in July 2025
For Business Users
- Annual subscription priced at $61 USD per device
- Renewable for up to three years, with incremental price increases
- Available via Volume Licensing and through Cloud Service Providers starting September 1, 2025
For Cloud and Virtual Environments
- Complimentary ESU available for Windows 10 devices accessed through Windows 365 Cloud PCs
- Also applies to virtual machines running Windows 11
System Requirements for ESU Enrollment
To be eligible for the ESU program, users must:
- Sign in with a Microsoft account
- Run Windows 10 Version 22H2 with the KB5046613 update (Build 19045.5131 or later)
Outlook
The end of free Windows 10 support marks a major transition for millions of users still relying on the platform. While the Extended Security Updates program offers a temporary safeguard, Microsoft’s attention is now firmly on advancing Windows 11 and the next generation of AI-powered PCs.
Earlier this year, Yusuf Mehdi reaffirmed Microsoft’s commitment to helping users navigate this shift—whether by upgrading to Windows 11, enrolling in ESU, or moving to Windows 365. He described 2025 as the “year of the Windows 11 PC refresh,” driven by new developments in AI and hardware innovation.