Windows 10 support officially ends on October 14, 2025, but not everyone can—or wants to—upgrade to Windows 11. Whether your hardware doesn't meet the strict TPM 2.0 requirements, you prefer Windows 10's interface, or you simply don't want to deal with the hassle, there's now a way to extend Windows 10 security updates through 2026.
⚠️ Important Notice
Microsoft is offering Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 10 through October 2026 for a fee. However, some users report the ESU enrollment option isn't showing up in Windows Update settings. This guide shows you how to force registration using an open-source tool called Flyoobe.
Why You Might Need This
Microsoft's official ESU program costs $30 for personal users and provides an additional year of critical security updates. But there's a catch: the enrollment option doesn't appear for everyone, even on eligible systems.
Common reasons people can't or won't upgrade to Windows 11 include unsupported hardware (older CPUs, no TPM 2.0), compatibility issues with critical software, preference for Windows 10's UI, or simply not wanting to deal with forced Microsoft account requirements.
What is Flyoobe?
Flyoobe is an open-source utility created by developer Builtbybel that helps you bypass Windows setup restrictions and modify system configurations. The latest version (1.20.400) includes a specific script to enroll your Windows 10 PC in the Extended Security Updates program—even if the option doesn't show up normally.
The tool is portable (no installation required), works with or without a Microsoft account, and is completely free. It's hosted on GitHub and regularly updated by its developer community.
Step-by-Step Guide to Enable ESU on Windows 10
Step 1: Download Flyoobe
Visit the official GitHub releases page: github.com/builtbybel/Flyoobe/releases/tag/1.20.400
Scroll down to the "Assets" section and click on Flyoobe 1.20 to download the .zip file (approximately 2-3 MB).
Step 2: Extract the ZIP File
Right-click the downloaded .zip file and select "Extract All..." or use your preferred extraction tool (7-Zip, WinRAR, etc.)
Extract to a folder you can easily find, such as C:\Flyoobe or your Desktop.
Step 3: Run Flyoobe
Navigate to the extracted folder and locate Flyo.exe
Right-click Flyo.exe and select "Run as administrator" (this is important for the tool to modify system settings)
If Windows SmartScreen appears, click "More info" then "Run anyway" (the app is open-source and safe, but unsigned)
Step 4: Navigate to Upgrade Options
In the Flyoobe interface, look at the left sidebar menu
Click on "Upgrade" (this is required even though we're not actually upgrading to Windows 11)
Step 5: Select ESU Enrollment
In the Upgrade section, you'll see various selection options
Locate and click on the "ESU" (Extended Security Updates) option
The interface will display information about the ESU enrollment process
Step 6: Follow On-Screen Instructions
Click the button to apply the ESU enrollment script
Flyoobe will modify your registry settings to register your system for extended updates
Wait for the process to complete (usually takes 10-30 seconds)
You'll see a confirmation message when successful
Step 7: Restart Your Computer
Restart your PC for the changes to take effect
After reboot, open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update
Check for updates—you should now see the ESU enrollment option or confirmation that you're enrolled
Verifying ESU Enrollment
To confirm your Windows 10 PC is properly enrolled in Extended Security Updates:
- Open Settings (Windows key + I)
- Navigate to Update & Security > Windows Update
- Click "Check for updates"
- Look for a message indicating ESU enrollment status
- You may also see "View optional updates" with ESU-related patches listed
If you don't see any ESU-related messages immediately, don't worry—the enrollment may take up to 24 hours to fully register with Microsoft's servers.
What Happens After Enrollment?
Once enrolled, your Windows 10 system will continue receiving critical security updates through October 2026. This includes patches for vulnerabilities, malware protection updates, and security fixes—but not feature updates or non-security improvements.
Microsoft charges $30 USD for the ESU year for personal users. Enterprise users pay different rates. The payment is processed through Windows Update settings once enrolled.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Flyoobe Won't Run
Make sure you're running it as administrator. Right-click Flyo.exe and select "Run as administrator." If Windows Defender blocks it, add an exception (the app is safe and open-source).
ESU Option Not Showing in Flyoobe
Ensure you downloaded version 1.20.400 or later. Earlier versions don't include the ESU enrollment script. Re-download from the GitHub releases page if needed.
Changes Don't Persist After Restart
Some antivirus software may revert registry changes. Temporarily disable your AV (except Windows Defender), run Flyoobe again, then re-enable it.
Still Not Seeing ESU After Enrollment
Wait 24-48 hours for Microsoft's servers to process the enrollment. Run Windows Update multiple times. If still not working, try running Flyoobe's ESU script again.
⚠️ Important Security Note
While this method enables ESU enrollment, you should still plan to upgrade to Windows 11 or switch to an alternative OS (Linux, etc.) by October 2026. Extended support is a temporary solution, not a permanent fix. Running an unsupported OS after October 2026 poses significant security risks.
Alternative: Official ESU Enrollment
If Flyoobe doesn't work for you or you prefer official methods, try these alternatives:
- Wait for Microsoft to enable ESU enrollment directly in Windows Update (expected to roll out gradually)
- Upgrade to Windows 11 if your hardware supports it
- Consider switching to a Linux distribution like Ubuntu or Linux Mint
- Purchase a new PC with Windows 11 pre-installed
Final Thoughts
Flyoobe offers a practical solution for users who need to keep Windows 10 running beyond its official end-of-support date. Whether you're managing legacy hardware, running incompatible software, or simply prefer Windows 10's experience, this tool gives you an extra year of security updates.
Remember: ESU is a bridge, not a destination. Use this extra year to plan your transition to Windows 11, explore Linux alternatives, or upgrade your hardware. Security matters, and running an unsupported OS after October 2026 is risky.
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