When Microsoft announced the end of official support for Windows 10, the news alarmed millions of users who still rely on this operating system on their computers. Although its scheduled lifespan was set to end in October 2025, the company has taken an unexpected turn: it's possible to extend Windows 10 security and updates for another year, until October 2026 , and in many cases, at no cost to individual users.
If you want to know exactly what needs to be done, what conditions must be met, what the implications are, and whether you're more interested in staying on Windows 10 or considering the definitive leap to Windows 11 , keep reading because here we explain everything in detail and with verified information from the main specialized sources.
Why has Microsoft expanded Windows 10 support?
When Windows 11 was officially launched in October 2021, Microsoft made it clear that this version would gradually replace Windows 10. However, reality has complicated things: many computers don't meet the requirements (especially the infamous TPM 2.0), and some users simply see no reason to upgrade as long as their computer is working properly. This pressure, coupled with the large number of devices running Windows 10, has led Microsoft to reconsider its strategy.
Windows 10's market share remains high , and the rollout of Windows 11 hasn't been as rapid as Redmond had hoped. In fact, there are countries where Windows 10 is still clearly ahead. Aware of this, Microsoft has announced an extension of security update support for those who need it, offering both free and paid options for those who prefer other methods.
How long will extended support be available?
Windows 10 support was originally scheduled to end on October 14, 2025. However, thanks to this extension, users will be able to continue receiving security updates until October 13, 2026, if they meet the requirements detailed below.
It's important to understand that during this extra year, you'll only receive security updates . In other words, there will be no new features or additional improvements; Windows 10 is officially in its final evolutionary phase. It's a secure system, but don't expect any new features.
Requirements and conditions for extending Windows 10 support without paying
Microsoft has established very specific conditions for those who want to benefit from this additional year of free updates. It's not enough to just sit back and wait; you have to follow certain steps and meet specific requirements . Let's look at them in detail:
- Microsoft account linking: You'll need to sign in to your device with a personal Microsoft account. Local or business accounts aren't supported if you're looking for the free option.
- Use Windows Backup: You must activate and use this feature to keep your data protected in the cloud and comply with the new update policies.
The combination of these two points is essential to access the free support extension . In other words, Microsoft is taking the opportunity to encourage the use of its cloud services and, at the same time, tie the extra security extension to its ecosystem.
Step by step: How to activate free extended support in Windows 10
We're going to detail the steps to expand support, as reported by media outlets such as Xataka, ComputerHoy, and Microsofters, and also confirmed by Microsoft:
- Opens Configuration on your computer and go to the section Accounts. Accede to Your information and make sure you're signed in with your personal Microsoft account.
- Then go to Settings > Update & security > Backup and look for the option windows-backup o Windows BackupIt's important to make a copy here to ensure you follow the proposed process.
- Leave the backup option enabled: This not only protects you, but it's also Microsoft's way of knowing you're eligible for the free extension.
- Always keep your system updated to the latest version before October 2025. When the time comes, Microsoft will release a guided wizard that will automatically inform and guide you through the process of signing up for extended support.
Important note: If you prefer not to use a Microsoft account, you have alternatives, but they will no longer be free.
Other alternatives: extended payment support and points redemption
For those who do not want to link their personal Microsoft account or simply prefer to keep their data private outside the cloud, Microsoft has established two alternatives to continue receiving security updates :
- Pay an annual fee of $30 (about €25-30): With this payment you will be entitled to extended support even with local accounts.
- Redeem 1.000 Microsoft Rewards points: You can get them using services like Bing or by making purchases and completing activities in the official store. This option allows you to receive support at no monetary cost, but in exchange for your activity in the Microsoft ecosystem.
In both cases, enrollment will be done through an automated wizard that Microsoft will launch starting in July 2025. If you have a business account or your device belongs to a company, you'll need to use the ESU (Extended Security Updates) program, which costs significantly more (around $61 for the first year).
Which versions of Windows 10 are eligible?
The free extension is intended for the home and professional versions of Windows 10: Home, Pro, Pro Education, and Pro for Workstations. If you have an Enterprise or IoT LTSC edition, the conditions change, as these enterprise environments have different support schedules and are typically more geared towards longer lifecycles and professional pricing.
Similarly, if you have a business account on your Windows 10 account, the free option will not be available, and you will have to pay for support at the business price.
Why does Microsoft require a personal account and backup?
The move makes strategic sense. Microsoft wants to encourage a gradual transition to Windows 11 and, by granting an additional year, is taking the opportunity to strengthen its ecosystem of services and the adoption of cloud storage through backups.
From a privacy perspective, this requirement may be a drawback for users who are more sensitive to their personal data. If you prefer to maintain a local account for any reason, you'll have a paid option, but not a free one.
What happens if I don't extend support?
The risk is clear: while your operating system will continue to function, you will no longer receive security patches or critical updates. This leaves you vulnerable to vulnerabilities, malware , ransomware, and all sorts of threats that cybercriminals typically exploit when systems are no longer protected. Remaining on an unsupported system is dangerous , especially if you use it for sensitive activities such as online banking, shopping, or work.
Microsoft isn't blocking the use of Windows 10, but it warns of the risks. In fact, once official support ends, it will begin displaying notifications and pop-ups informing users of the availability of the support extension and the options to opt in.
Is it worth staying on Windows 10 or upgrading to Windows 11?
This extension is a relief for those who can't upgrade their computer or need more time to migrate . However, Microsoft still recommends upgrading to Windows 11 if your hardware allows it, as support will be longer and you'll have access to new features, optimizations, and security improvements.
In some cases, upgrading may not be feasible because your device doesn't meet the minimum requirements (e.g., lack of TPM 2.0), but if it's simply a matter of preference, this one-year buffer may help you decide.
If you decide to stay on Windows 10 after extended support ends in 2026, there are advanced options such as purchasing enterprise licenses (Enterprise LTSC or IoT LTSC), which can extend the life of your system, although they are generally out of reach for home users and require additional paperwork.
What if I want to keep using Windows 10 even longer?
Beyond October 2026, options for individual users are significantly reduced . Businesses can pay for the ESU program year after year, but the cost increases each season and it's not designed for the home market. It's important to assess whether it's truly worthwhile to continue or explore other alternatives.
Some advanced options are:
- Purchase an Enterprise LTSC or IoT LTSC license (professional, complex, and restricted option).
- Migrate to alternative systems such as Linux (e.g. Ubuntu, Zorin OS or Linux Mint), which offer support and updates, albeit with learning curves.
- Upgrade to Windows 11 (even forcibly on unsupported computers, at your own risk and with potential performance issues).
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