Microsoft will end Windows 10 support soon, but you can still get it free for a year

For a decade, Windows 10 has been like bread and butter for millions of users around the globe who login to their PCs each day. Its familiar interface, steady performance, and regular updates made it a steadfast favourite among both casual users and professionals alike. However, in June this year, things changed when Windows 10 successor, Windows 11, officially became the more widely used OS, according to StatCounter data. 

Also read: Microsoft says new Windows 11 update didn’t break your SSD

Despite this shift in popularity, many still rely on Windows 10 for their daily computing needs. And now that Microsoft is officially ending support for Windows 10 next month, people are wondering if there is a workaround to keep their favourite OS just a little longer. If you are also one of them, here’s good news. It is indeed possible to keep Windows 10 around for a year. Read on to know more. 

How to stay on Windows 10 for free

If you’re not ready to make the leap to Windows 11 but don’t want to miss out on vital security updates, here are a few simple ways to keep Windows 10 at no extra cost for a while longer:

1. Sync your settings via OneDrive: Just hook up your PC to OneDrive using the Windows Backup feature. Microsoft counts this as enrollment in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, without costing you a dime. It’s a clever workaround that gives you an additional year of security coverage (up to October 13, 2026) so long as your settings (even if minimal) are synced. Just be mindful that OneDrive only offers 5 GB free—and if you store lots of data, you might need to free up space or buy more.
2. Use Microsoft Rewards points (if you’ve got them): Another free entry ticket to the ESU program involves redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points. It’s a neat option for users who take part in Microsoft’s rewards ecosystem.
3. Pay the $30 yearly fee (optional): If syncing or rewards aren’t your thing, don’t worry, you can still keep receiving updates by paying the $30 ESU fee for the year

Indian Government asks to upgrade to Windows 11

While Microsoft leaves the door open for a fee-free continuation on Windows 10, the Indian government has issued a strong recommendation that users upgrade to Windows 11 without delay.

On June 25, 2025, the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) released an advisory reminding users that Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. Once support ends, systems running Windows 10 will become increasingly vulnerable to zero-day attacks, malware, ransomware, and phishing exploits.

CERT-In then urged users to upgrade to Windows 11 to continue receiving critical security updates. The transition from Windows 10 Home or Pro editions to the equivalent Windows 11 versions is free, provided the PC meets the minimum system requirements. Users can go to Settings → Privacy & Security → Windows Update to check their eligibility and initiate the upgrade. CERT-In also said that while the ESU program (at $30/year) offers more time, it does not extend the official support lifecycle, nor does it include full technical support.

Thus, Windows 10 may still run smoothly today, but its unsupported status after October makes it a risky option. While you can delay the inevitable for a year and continue using it without cost, cybersecurity experts, and the Indian government, encourage upgrading to Windows 11 sooner rather than later.

Also read: Windows doesn’t want you to forget about the em dash, introduces easier typing shortcut