How to Get Free Windows 10 Security Updates Until 2026

Want to keep your Windows 10 PC secure after October 2025? Here’s how to get free security updates until 2026 by syncing your settings with a Microsoft Account.

Free Windows 10 Security Updates? Yes, But There’s a Catch

Good news, Windows 10 users: Microsoft is extending free security updates past the October 14, 2025 deadline, but only if you agree to one thing.

To stay protected until October 2026, you’ll need to sync your PC settings to the cloud using the Windows Backup app and sign in with a Microsoft Account.

What’s the Catch?

If you’re not into cloud syncing or don’t use a Microsoft Account, you’ll have to pay $30 per device or cough up 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points to stay in the loop with Extended Security Updates (ESU).

Not keen on that? Then unfortunately, you’re left unsupported starting October 2025, and your PC will gradually become more vulnerable as new security threats emerge.

How to Get Free Security Updates for Windows 10

1. Download the Windows Backup app (already available on Windows 10).
2. Sign in with your Microsoft Account.
3. Enable syncing for your documents, apps, credentials, and system settings.
4. Wait for the ESU enrollment app, rolling out in July, to activate your free year of protection.

What’s Not Included

Let’s be clear, the ESU program is for security updates only. No new features, no fancy redesigns, and not even bug fixes. Microsoft is done updating Windows 10 in any meaningful way after October 2025.

Why Microsoft Is Doing This

With over 1 billion Windows devices out there and more than half still on Windows 10, Microsoft is clearly hedging against a post-2025 security nightmare. This offer gives laggards another year of protection while nudging them ever closer to Windows 11.

TL;DR

• Free Windows 10 security updates until 2026
• Only if you sync via Microsoft Account using Windows Backup
• Otherwise, it’ll cost you $30/device or 1,000 reward points
• No new features, just security patches
• Ends October 2026 for everyone