Windows 10 Users Can Redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards Points for Extended Security Update

As Windows 10 nears its official end-of-support on October 14, 2025, Microsoft is giving hesitant users another option to stay protected. In addition to the previously announced $30 price for one year of Extended Security Updates (ESUs), the company has now revealed that users can redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points to get an ESU instead.

These ESUs include bug fixes, security updates, and technical support through October 13, 2026. While Windows 10 will continue functioning without them, users who don’t enroll won’t receive major updates. However, Microsoft has committed to providing Microsoft 365 security updates and Windows Defender antivirus definitions until October 2028.

Enrollment for the ESU program will be available via notifications and Windows Settings. Currently, the process is being tested with Windows Insiders, and broader availability is expected by mid-August 2025.

Many users are reluctant to move away from Windows 10, which offered a stable experience after Windows 8. However, since its debut in 2021, Windows 11 has matured significantly, addressing many early complaints — including the return of app labels on the taskbar.

With the support clock ticking, Microsoft is clearly trying to ease the transition while rewarding loyal users who've built up Microsoft Rewards through Bing searches, Microsoft Store purchases, and Xbox gaming.