Microsoft Offers $30 Windows 10 Security Extension for Home Users

Microsoft will allow home users to extend security support for Windows 10 beyond its October 2025 end-of-life date for a $30 fee. This marks the first time the Redmond giant has offered such an option to individual consumers, as extended security updates were previously available only to business and education customers. While the extension will maintain essential security patches, users won’t receive new features, bug fixes, or technical support from Microsoft. This decision affects millions of Windows 10 users worldwide who may be unable or unwilling to upgrade to Windows 11, either due to hardware limitations or personal preference. While Microsoft strongly encourages users to transition to Windows 11, which offers enhanced security features and AI capabilities, many older computers don’t meet the newer operating system’s stricter hardware requirements.

The company will begin enrollment for the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program closer to the 2025 deadline. Microsoft will also continue providing Security Intelligence Updates for Microsoft Defender Antivirus through at least October 2028, offering an additional layer of protection for Windows 10 users. This move can be interpreted as Microsoft’s acknowledgment of the significant number of users still running Windows 10 and the potential security risks of leaving them unprotected. The modest fee structure suggests Microsoft’s priority is maintaining user security rather than generating revenue from the program. Using an ESU package from an official source like Microsoft is always better than sourcing them from third-party like 0patch offers, and it is a welcome addition for millions of PCs running Windows 10 today.