Microsoft Offers Free Windows 10 Updates to Millions of Users: What You Need to Know

August 18, 2025

Microsoft Announces Extended Security Updates for Windows 10

Millions of Windows 10 users are now receiving notifications regarding extended security updates, as Microsoft prepares to wind down official support for the operating system. The Company recently unveiled a free update path, alongside paid options, to keep systems protected beyond the current support lifecycle.

Free Updates Rolling Out Now

microsoft has begun deploying a “registration assistant” via notifications and configuration settings, allowing users to easily enroll in extended support. This free option, linked to a Microsoft and OneDrive account, aims to provide continued security protection for those not immediately upgrading to Windows 11. The availability of this registration option is expanding to more users following initial deployment.

Paid Options Available

for users preferring not to link accounts, or requiring coverage for multiple machines, Microsoft offers a paid subscription service. A license costs $30 and can protect up to 10 computers under a single account. This provides a flexible option for businesses or individuals managing a larger number of systems.

Key Details and Deadlines

The extended support program is currently slated to run until October 2026. Users must act before then to secure continued protection. the core update required to access these options is KB5063709, which is now considered mandatory.

Update Option	Cost	Coverage	Requirements
free Extended Security Updates	$0	Single PC	Microsoft/OneDrive Account
Paid Extended Security Updates	$30	Up to 10 PCs	Account registration

initial reports indicated some users encountered issues accessing the registration process, but Microsoft has acknowledged the problem and is actively working on a resolution.

Did You Know? according to Statista, approximately 70.54% of desktop operating systems worldwide were Windows as of April 2024,highlighting the considerable user base impacted by this update.

Pro Tip: Regularly check Windows Update settings for the latest updates and the availability of the extended security update registration prompt to ensure your system remains protected.

Microsoft emphasizes its commitment to supporting users through this transition, acknowledging that upgrading to new hardware takes time. The extended security updates program aims to bridge the gap, providing an essential layer of protection during this period.

Understanding Extended Security Updates (ESU)

Extended Security Updates are a crucial aspect of maintaining cybersecurity in an evolving threat landscape. They provide continued security patches and updates for operating systems that have reached their end of life, protecting against vulnerabilities and potential attacks. Microsoft’s ESU program for Windows 10 is a continuation of this practice, offering peace of mind for those not yet ready to migrate to a newer operating system.

Choosing between the free and paid options depends on individual needs and circumstances. The free option is ideal for single users tightly integrated into the Microsoft ecosystem. The paid option offers greater adaptability and scalability for organizations or individuals managing multiple devices.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are extended security updates for Windows 10?

Extended security updates provide continued security protection for Windows 10 beyond its official end-of-life date.

• How much do Windows 10 extended security updates cost?

The paid option costs $30 per license,covering up to 10 computers.

• Is there a free option for Windows 10 extended security updates?

Yes, a free option is available by linking your Microsoft account and OneDrive.

• When do Windows 10 extended security updates end?

The extended support program is scheduled to conclude in October 2026.

• What is KB5063709?

KB5063709 is a mandatory update that prepares systems for receiving extended security updates.

Will you be taking advantage of Microsoft’s extended support options? What are your biggest concerns regarding the transition from Windows 10?

What steps can Windows 10 users take to manually check for and install available updates?

Understanding Windows 10 Update Options

Microsoft continues to provide free updates to Windows 10 users, ensuring devices remain secure and perform optimally. These Windows 10 updates aren’t just about new features; they’re crucial for protecting against the latest cybersecurity threats and maintaining system stability. Understanding your update options is key to a smooth computing experience.

Here’s a breakdown of how Windows 10 update delivery works:

Feature Updates: Released typically twice a year, these are major updates that introduce meaningful new functionalities and improvements.

Quality Updates: Delivered monthly, these focus on security patches, bug fixes, and performance enhancements.

Driver Updates: These updates ensure compatibility with your hardware, improving performance and resolving potential issues.

How to Check for Windows updates

Keeping your system up-to-date is simple. Here’s how to manually check for Windows updates:

1. Select the Start button.
2. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
3. click Check for updates.

Windows will automatically download and install any available updates. You can also configure active hours to prevent updates from interrupting your work.

Benefits of Staying Updated with Windows 10

Regularly installing Windows updates offers a multitude of benefits:

Enhanced Security: Protects against viruses, malware, and other security threats. Windows security updates are a critical defense layer.

Improved Performance: Optimizes system performance and resolves bugs,leading to a smoother user experience.

New Features: Access to the latest features and improvements, enhancing productivity and usability.

Hardware Compatibility: Ensures compatibility with the newest hardware and peripherals.

System Stability: Addresses underlying issues that can cause crashes or instability.

Managing Update Settings: Taking Control

While automatic updates are recommended, Windows 10 allows you to customize your update experience. Here’s how:

Pause Updates: Temporarily halt updates for up to 35 days. Useful if you need to avoid disruptions during critical tasks.

Active hours: Set a timeframe when your computer is actively used,preventing updates from automatically restarting your device during those hours.

Delivery Optimization: Control how updates are downloaded, possibly reducing bandwidth usage by sharing updates with other PCs on your network.

To access these settings, navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Windows update > Advanced options.

Troubleshooting Common Update Issues

Sometimes, Windows 10 updates can encounter problems. Here are some common issues and how to resolve them:

Update Errors: error codes can provide clues about the problem. Search Microsoft support for the specific error code.

Slow Download Speeds: Check your internet connection and ensure no other applications are consuming bandwidth.

Installation Failures: Restart your computer and try the update again. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter (Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot).

* Compatibility Issues: Some older hardware or software may not be fully compatible with the latest updates.Check with the manufacturer for compatibility details.

The Future of windows 10 updates

Microsoft is committed to supporting Windows 10 with regular updates through October 14, 2025.While the focus is shifting towards Windows 11, millions of users will continue to benefit from ongoing security and quality improvements for Windows 10. Staying informed about these updates is crucial for maintaining a secure and reliable computing experience. consider exploring Windows 11 upgrade options when ready for the next generation of Windows.

Source: Install Windows Updates – Microsoft Support