This is according to The Verge, a US-based computing website.
Windows 10 users will be able to join the ESU programme until 14 October 2025 – but under certain conditions.
The free option includes activation of Windows Backup to synchronise settings and files in the OneDrive cloud service. However, due to the limitations of the free space (5GB), users may need to purchase additional cloud space if they have a large number of documents.
Alternative ways to connect to ESU include paying an annual fee of $30 or redeeming 1,000 points in the Microsoft Rewards programme. In July, Windows 10 will come with a dedicated connection wizard with all three options.
After selecting an option and following the steps on the screen, the computer will automatically connect,” explained Microsoft Executive Vice President Yusuf Mehdi.
Support for ESU updates will last until 13 October 2026. Paid extended support for three years is available for enterprise users. Windows 10 devices that run through Windows 11 Cloud PCs services on Windows 365 or in a virtualised environment will also receive free updates.
Microsoft is actively encouraging the transition to Windows 11 by naming 2025 the “year of the PC upgrade.” Despite the new OS’ growing popularity among gamers, according to Steam, 37 per cent of users are still on Windows 10.