You may not have to throw away your Windows 10 Device away after October 14th 2025

Posted on by Anna

We recommend everyone, where possible, updates their Windows 10 Operating System to Windows 11 before support runs out on October 14th 2025, but we are also aware of the impact upon the environment of throwing older devices into landfill just because they are not compatible with Window 11, writes lead Cyber Essentials assessor Tony Wilson

Users may wish to keep their older Windows 10 devices because they are capable of handling current workload. If so, they can opt for the Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates, whether free or paid-for, and keep their devices up-to-date and compliant with schemes such as Cyber Essentials.

However, experience shows that any added complication to license deployment, especially in larger companies, increases the risk of devices missing future updates and becoming vulnerable.

We expect larger businesses will likely extend their security support via paid-for licensing that covers up to 10 PCs on one Microsoft account, while some smaller businesses, and home users, will choose the free option, which requires linking to a Microsoft account and OneDrive.

The option to enrol in Extended Security Updates, including the free offer, should appear in Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, typically in the right-hand pane or near the Check for updates button. It may appear as a notification or a clickable link labelled “Enroll in Extended Security Updates.”

If it’s not visible, follow these steps:

  1. Verify Your Windows Version:
    • Go to Settings > System > About and confirm you’re on Windows 10, version 22H2 (Build 19045.6216 or higher after KB5063709).
    • If not on 22H2, install all available updates via Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update to upgrade to the correct version.
  2. Ensure You’re Signed in with a Microsoft Account:
    • Go to Settings > Accounts > Your info and verify you’re signed in with a Microsoft account (not a local account) with administrator rights.
    • If using a local account, switch to a Microsoft account temporarily for enrollment.
  1. Check for and Install All Updates:
    • Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and click Check for updates. Install any pending updates, including KB5063709 and any Servicing Stack Updates.
    • Reboot your device after installing updates to ensure all components are registered.
  1. Run the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter:
    • If the toggle still doesn’t appear, incomplete app registration might be the issue. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters > Windows Store Apps and run the troubleshooter to fix potential registration issues.
  1. Wait for the Rollout:
    • If all prerequisites are met and the toggle is still missing, it’s likely due to the staged rollout. Microsoft has advised that the ESU wizard will be available to all eligible devices by late September or early October 2025. Check Windows Update periodically over the next few weeks.