Windows 10 remains the world’s second most used desktop operating system, holding a 40.5% share across all Windows versions. After ten years on the market, its extended support phase has officially ended and it will no longer receive security updates and patches by default.
For the first time, ordinary users can sign up for Extended Security Updates that will continue until October 13, 2024. Originally this option was gated behind one of three conditions: paying $30, redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points, or backing up your PC settings to OneDrive.
Thanks to consumer group Euroconsumers, European users were briefly led to believe they would receive an extra year of Windows 10 updates without taking any action. That turned out not to be the case. Enrollment in the Extended Security Updates program is required.
The prompt to register will appear in Windows Update, but only if you are running the latest Windows 10 release, version 22H2, with all patches applied. You must sign in with an account to complete the registration.
Registration is straightforward and fast. Once enrolled, your PC will receive security updates through October 13, 2024. That gives users time to decide how to handle the end of mainstream support for Windows 10. We have outlined the available options in detail for those planning their next steps.
