2 days ago
Don't miss the deadline — you need Microsoft's free security update before Windows 10 stops receiving support
If you're still running Windows 10, Microsoft just released a free update that should let you enroll in Extended Support Updates, which will run through October 2026. This means that when security updates end for Windows 10 in October this year, you'll get an extra year of support.
The mandatory KB5063709 update enables you to see a new option labeled 'Enroll in Extended Support Updates' that you can find in the Windows Update page. From there, you'll find two options for extending security support.
This was initially confirmed by Microsoft in July in a blog post noting 'individuals will begin to see an enrollment wizard through notifications and in Settings, making it simple to select the best option for you and enroll in ESU directly from your personal Windows 10 PC.'
Microsoft goes on to say that the extension is in place to 'support' users as they upgrade to a new PC, one that would presumably have Windows 11.
Thinking of upgrading? Here's the best Windows 11 laptops based on our testing.
'The Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program is designed to keep your current Windows 10 PC protected after support ends—helping you stay secure during the transition.'
Microsoft set high bars for upgrading from Windows 10 to 11, which caused many to have problems actually updating. Recently, the company revealed the reasons why you may have struggled to upgrade while providing resolutions.
Surprisingly, as we get closer to the deadline, data from StatCounter shows the global share of people using Windows 10 has increased since June 2025, when Microsoft announced the ESU support option. And Windows 11 use has decreased, where the lines were moving in the opposite direction as recently as May.
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As of this writing, Windows 10's market share stands at 42.99%, compared to 53.39% for Windows 11.
Windows 10 isn't the only Microsoft operating system losing security support soon. Windows 11 23H2 will no longer receive security updates starting November 11, 2025 as reported by PC World. Consumer editions of Windows 11 only get 24 months of support.
Like Windows 10, if you miss the deadline to upgrade, then security updates will stop. You'll need to upgrade to Windows 11 version 24H2 or 25H2 which is supposed to release in September or Tom's Guide on Google News to get our up-to-date news, how-tos, and reviews in your feeds. Make sure to click the Follow button.
