Windows 10 ESU bug squashed — you may now enroll to get free security updates (and your PC won’t lie to you about it)

Many people initially believed Windows 10 would continue to be supported for an extra year thanks to a free security update program. However, some users quickly became concerned when they found they couldn’t sign up for it.

Luckily for those affected, the bug was confirmed by Microsoft and quickly squashed.

Last week, some users saw an incorrect error message in Windows Update Settings saying their version of Windows was no longer supported. This happened even on computers that were already receiving updates through the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program.

The incorrect message showed up on devices where it shouldn’t have, and surprisingly, those affected computers still received and installed security updates through Windows Update, as long as they were already signed up for the Extended Security Update program.

The problem affected the following versions of Windows 10:

  • Windows 10, version 22H2 Pro, Education or Enterprise editions that are correctly enrolled in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program and configured with an ESU product key
  • Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021
  • Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021

There was a strange problem that caused some confusion, but it’s now been resolved. Microsoft released an update this week to fix the issue, and you can get it through Windows Update.

Another Windows 10 bug

Another problem arose where some computers couldn’t join the Windows 10 Extended Security Update (ESU) program. This bug caused the enrollment process to fail for affected PCs.

Microsoft has resolved the issue, and devices can now be registered for the Extended Security Update (ESU) program using the dedicated ESU wizard.

Details of the issue were shared by Microsoft earlier this week:

This update fixes a problem with signing up for Extended Security Updates (ESU) on Windows 10. Some users were experiencing errors during the enrollment process, but this update should allow consumer devices to enroll in ESU successfully using the standard enrollment wizard.

Windows 10 End of Life FAQ

When did Windows 10 support end?

Microsoft stopped providing regular support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. However, because so many people still use it, they’ve offered a year of free security updates to those who sign up for the Extended Security Update (ESU) program. It’s important to know that these updates aren’t automatic – you have to actively choose to get them.

What is Windows 10 EoL?

Windows 10’s end of life means Microsoft no longer provides regular updates and support for the operating system.

What is the ESU program?

Here, ESU refers to Extended Security Updates. It’s a program offering free security updates for Windows 10 until October 2026.

👉HOW TO GET FREE WINDOWS 10 SECURITY UPDATES FOR ONE YEAR

Can I continue to use Windows 10?

Even after Windows 10 stops receiving regular updates, your computer will still run, but it will be more vulnerable to security threats. You can stay protected for an additional year by joining the Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which provides free security updates.

Can I upgrade to Windows 11?

Most computers can be upgraded to Windows 11. Doing so will provide security updates for over a year and give you access to the latest features. However, your computer needs to meet certain hardware requirements to run Windows 11.

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2025-11-13 17:41