How to get free Windows 10 security patches on your PC

If users don't want to spend $30 on a Windows 10 patch, they can choose free alternatives.

Microsoft has officially ended support for Windows 10, meaning computers running this operating system will no longer receive regular security patches. However, users can still continue to receive free updates through the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program until October 2026.

Windows 10 will continue to receive free security updates until 2026. (Source: ZDNET)

To register, users need to activate ESU using a Microsoft account. One account can be used for up to 10 devices. After registration, the computer will continue to receive patches even if the user logs in with a different account or a local account.

Users in Europe are entitled to a special offer: ESU is free without needing a Microsoft account. This policy applies to all 30 countries in the European Economic Area (EEA).

Additionally, Microsoft offers several other options to receive ESU for free, such as using the Windows Backup tool to sync data to the cloud or redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points. Otherwise, users can pay $30 for the update package.

However, the program is only available for Windows 10 Home, Pro, Pro Education, and Workstation versions. Machines on a corporate network or using the Enterprise/Education version will have to purchase the commercial ESU package at a higher cost.

This is seen as a temporary solution, giving millions of Windows 10 users more time to prepare before being forced to switch to Windows 11 or another solution in 2026.

On a personal device running the latest version of Windows 10, you will find this link to register for the Extended Security Update. (Source: ZDNET)

Registration is done directly in Settings > Windows Update, by clicking “Enroll now” to open the wizard.

If you're already signed in with a Microsoft account and have previously used Windows Backup to save your settings to the cloud, the registration process will be quick. Otherwise, if you're using a local account or haven't run Windows Backup before, you'll need to take a few extra steps.

Mr. Quang

Source: https://vtcnews.vn/cach-nhan-ban-va-bao-mat-windows-10-mien-phi-บน-pc-ar989418.html