Windows 10 End of Support: Free ESU Options, Risks, and What to Do Next

◆ Summary: Windows 10 Is Ending, But Not All Hope Is Lost

On October 14, 2025, Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10. This means no more security patches, technical support, or bug fixes—leaving millions of users vulnerable to cyberattacks.

But not everyone needs to panic or buy a new PC immediately.
There are temporary extensions, workaround options, and even free security coverage—if you know where to look.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know about the end of Windows 10, who’s affected, what options exist, and how to avoid unnecessary costs or risks.

◆ Background: Why This Change Is a Big Deal for Millions

As of mid-2025, over 52% of global desktop users still rely on Windows 10. Despite this, Microsoft is moving forward with its deadline.

The reaction has been emotional and global:

• A man in California is suing Microsoft, calling the policy “coercive” and anti-consumer
• Environmental groups warn of massive e-waste due to forced hardware upgrades
• Users on Reddit express a mix of relief (successful ESU registration) and confusion (“Why can’t I register?”)

In Japan, public agencies like IPA (Information-technology Promotion Agency) are urging organizations to upgrade, warning of serious cybersecurity risks post-EOL.

◆ Option 1: Extended Security Updates (ESU) — Your Lifeline After October 2025

Microsoft offers a program called Extended Security Updates (ESU). This lets you keep receiving security patches after support ends—for up to three years.

🔹 For Personal Users (Free, but Conditional)

Some users can get 1 year of ESU for free under specific conditions:

• Windows 10 Version 22H2
• Logged into a Microsoft account
• All recent updates installed
• Your PC must show the “Extended Security Updates” option under Settings

💬 One Japanese user reported that by simply clicking through the settings menu, they extended support until October 13, 2026, with no payment.

“I just saw the option and clicked it. It worked, no tricks,” said IT writer Hidehito Tarui on Impress Watch.

However, many users on Reddit report that the option never appeared for them—causing confusion and frustration.

🔹 For Businesses (Paid, Tiered Model)

Organizations can purchase ESU licenses with this pricing model:

• Year 1: ~$61/device
• Year 2: ~$122/device
• Year 3: ~$244/device

But there’s a catch: you’ll likely need a WSUS or Microsoft Endpoint server to deploy the updates, which many small businesses can’t afford to manage.

Some IT admins describe the process as “not worth the infrastructure cost unless absolutely necessary.”

◆ Option 2: Consider Linux — Especially for Older PCs

Environmental advocates like The Restart Project (UK) are encouraging users to switch to Linux-based operating systems like Ubuntu, Zorin OS, or Linux Mint.

Why Linux?

• It’s free, open-source, and actively maintained
• Older hardware often runs better on Linux than on Windows 11
• Reduces e-waste by giving aging machines a second life

However, it’s not for everyone:

• Some Windows-only software (especially enterprise apps) may not be compatible
• Japanese language input or office document compatibility might require tuning

Still, for personal users or schools, Linux offers a viable exit strategy from the Windows upgrade treadmill.

◆ What the Japanese Government and Experts Recommend

🔹 IPA Japan: “Upgrade, Don’t Wait”

Japan’s Information-technology Promotion Agency (IPA) issued an official cybersecurity alert warning that continuing to use Windows 10 after support ends poses significant risks:

• No more security updates = increased vulnerability
• Third-party software (like browsers and antivirus) will also stop supporting Windows 10
• Data leaks, ransomware attacks, and business outages are all possible outcomes

They emphasize that organizations should start migration plans well before mid-2025, ideally finishing the transition by the summer.

In short, Japan’s top tech authority isn’t recommending ESU or extended use—but rather timely, full migration.

◆ What Real Users Are Experiencing

✅ Reddit: A Success Story

One user posted:

“Finally, got enrolled in ESU today. Just clicked the settings option, and now I’m covered till 2026. Huge relief.”

Their post quickly gained traction, confirming that free ESU activation works—if conditions are met.

But others responded with frustration:

“Why don’t I see that option?”
“Do I need a Microsoft account?”
“Is my version of Windows too old?”

This reflects a knowledge gap—many people may be eligible, but don’t know how to activate ESU or even that it exists.

❌ Reddit: Admins Rejecting ESU Plans

Another thread from IT professionals offered a bleaker view:

“We considered ESU, but it requires a separate update server setup. Not worth it for our scale.”

And another:

“Costs double every year. We’re advising users to move to Windows 11 or alternative systems instead.”

This reveals how some institutions and businesses are deliberately skipping ESU, due to cost or technical barriers—highlighting a split between those who can adapt and those who can’t.

◆ Critical Thinking: It’s About More Than Just Software

This situation isn’t just about upgrading an operating system—it exposes deeper digital issues:

✳ A Growing Digital Divide

• People who know how to activate ESU can stay secure for free
• Others, unaware of the feature, may spend hundreds on new devices unnecessarily
• Small businesses and schools with limited tech support are at higher risk

✳ Environmental and Economic Waste

Environmental advocates warn this will trigger a flood of avoidable e-waste, as still-functional PCs are scrapped simply due to a software deadline.

Some are even calling it “planned obsolescence”—a way to push upgrades for profit, at the cost of sustainability.

◆ Action Guide: What You Can Do Right Now

Here’s what you should check today:

◆ Final Thoughts: Knowing = Empowerment

Microsoft’s support deadline is real.
But how painful or expensive it will be depends on what you know—and what you do.

Some users will panic and rush to buy new PCs.
Others will calmly enable ESU and enjoy another year of security.
Still others will shift to Linux and discover a new ecosystem entirely.

There’s no single right path. But informed decisions always win.

So before you upgrade, toss, or spend—check your options, read the instructions, and take your time.

🔗 References:

• Windows 10 Support Ending – Official ESU Details (Microsoft)
• IPA Japan Cybersecurity Alert
• User Experience Report (Impress Watch, JP)
• TrustedTechTeam – Migration Guide
• PCGamer – California Lawsuit over Windows 10 EOL