TECH NEWS – The Redmond-based tech giant wants everyone to switch to Windows 11, but many consider it bloatware.

As the October end-of-support date for Windows 10 approaches, users have one last chance to buy some time before upgrading to Windows 11. Microsoft has updated its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, offering an extra year of updates for $30. But now, Microsoft is also providing a way to receive this additional year for free.

Individual users can enroll in the Windows 10 ESU program simply by enabling Windows Backup, which regularly backs up your files and settings in case your system ever needs to be restored. This feature is entirely free and requires only a few clicks in the settings menu, where users can customize which data is included in the backup. This isn’t a new feature—it’s been around since at least Windows XP.

Alternatively, instead of paying the $30 ESU fee, users can redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points, which are earned through purchases made in the Microsoft Store or the Xbox app. Anyone running the current version of Windows 10 can sign up for the ESU program anytime between now and October 13, 2026, the program’s end date. After that final year of updates, users will be on their own. While Windows 10 will still technically work, it’s not advisable to use an operating system once it stops receiving security patches. Users should either upgrade to Windows 11 or switch to a different OS.

Linux isn’t ideal for every use case and can involve a learning curve. SteamOS might help, especially since we’ve noted its better gaming performance over Windows 11. Beyond that, there’s always Mac.

Source: PCGamer, Microsoft, Microsoft, Microsoft