Many teams with Windows 10 will remain active even after mainstream support ends. To fill this gap, Microsoft has launched the Extended security updates (ESU), which adds an extra year of critical and important patches for those who choose to remain on this system.
The novelty is materialized in a button inside Windows Update which allows registration to be processed through a wizard. The company is releasing this option progressively, so not all users will see it at the same time, and if it doesn't appear yet, you'll have to wait for it to arrive on your device.
Deployment of the registration button
According to sources such as Windows Latest, the high school assistant ESU began rolling out in July and has been gradually increasing its availability in recent weeks. The "Sign up now" link appears in the Windows Update panel when your computer is eligible.
Several users have pointed out that the warning appears after installing recent updates or after restarting the PC. Still, there's no universal pattern: Microsoft has confirmed that the rollout is progressing "slowly" and that the option will be available to all supported devices before the end of mainstream support.
In case the process fails, the company has been correcting specific incidents detected during deployment. If you still don't see the button, there's no official way to force it: it's best to periodically check Windows Update and keep your system up to date.
Some users have noticed the new link after installing the build. KB5063709, which enables direct registration from the system settings. At the same time, full-screen messages urging users to upgrade to Windows 11 have multiplied, something to be expected as the end of support approaches.
It is important to be clear about the scope of the program: the ESU offers monthly security updates considered critical or important in the face of threats such as Meltdown and Specter. It does not add features, it does not change the interface and does not include technical support nor software updates other than security updates.
Requirements, price and access routes to the ESU
To register you must have Windows 10 version 22H2 Fully updated. Home, Pro, Pro Education, and Workstation editions are valid, provided the device meets the basic requirements of the assistant.
Another key point is identity: Microsoft has clarified that all methods of obtaining the ESU require a Microsoft account with administrator permissions on the device. In addition, the same license can be applied up to 10 computers that are linked to that account.
As for the cost, there are three options. You can pay $30 (guideline amount, taxes not included), redeem 1.000 Microsoft Rewards points or activate the free route by enabling the configuration backup (Windows Backup) on OneDrive.
Registration is completed from Settings > Update & Security > Windows UpdateThere, you'll see an end-of-support notice and a "Sign Up Now" button. The wizard will check your eligibility, ask you to log in to your account if applicable, and allow you to choose your option: backup sync, Rewards points, or one-time payment.
The end of standard support is set for the 14th October 2025. Even if you don't sign up before that date, you can sign up later and you will receive all the security patches previously published, in addition to the following ones until the closing of the consumer program.
For individuals, ESU coverage is extended until October 13 from 2026Organizations and businesses have additional renewal options, so their support window can extend beyond that horizon.
Remember that ESU is not intended to replace a version upgrade: its goal is to offer a time margin those who cannot migrate immediately or prefer to wait, especially on computers that do not meet the Windows 11 requirements.
It is clear that Microsoft's plan combines a gradual deployment of the wizard from Windows Update, several access routes (free and paid) and specific requirements such as 22H2 and Microsoft account, with a limited scope to security patches until 2026 for home users.
