Farewell to Windows 10 Support—But There's Hope!

As the Windows 10 era draws to a close, Microsoft is set to end support in October. For users who dread the leap to Windows 11, there's a silver lining: the tech giant is now offering a free option to maintain security updates for an additional year! Initially, a one-year extended security update program priced at $30 was the only route, but now you can keep your beloved Windows 10 without breaking the bank—if you're willing to engage with cloud backup and link your OneDrive account.

Why This Matters: Millions Are Affected!

This move is crucial, especially since Windows 10 still reigns supreme as the most popular OS, making up over 53% of installations as of May 2025. As the clock ticks down, millions risk being left vulnerable without any security support. The cloud backup approach presents a lifeline, allowing users to stay protected without incurring costs.

The Catch: OneDrive Storage Limits!

However, there’s a catch: your OneDrive storage space. Every Microsoft account comes with 5GB of free storage. But as The Verge warns, if your backups exceed that limit, you might need to opt for a subscription plan. For just $2 a month, you can snag 100GB of cloud storage, making it cheaper than the original $30—but it could still be a hassle for some users.

A Quick Flashback: Celebrating a Decade of Windows 10!

Can you believe Windows 10 debuted a decade ago in July 2015? It's been a wild ride for many, and as we say goodbye, there are still ways to keep it running securely.

How to Score Free Security Updates for Windows 10!

According to Microsoft's latest blog post, here are three simple options to secure your Windows 10 experience without spending a dime:

1. **Link Windows Backup**: Sync your settings to the cloud using OneDrive.

2. **Redeem Microsoft Rewards Points**: If you've accumulated 1,000 points, you can cash them in for one year of security updates.

3. **Go for Extended Security Updates Program**: If all else fails, you can still pay $30 for peace of mind.

What’s Next?

Starting in July, Microsoft will introduce a user-friendly sign-up wizard for the Extended Security Updates program. Opting for this will secure your device's safety through October 13, 2026. While businesses have the choice to extend support for up to three additional years, regular users may find this is just a temporary fix—it's time to consider upgrading to Windows 11!