Microsoft has announced new “free enrollment options” for its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, providing a one-year reprieve for price-sensitive consumers and tens of millions of consumer PCs that are ineligible for the free Windows 11 upgrade.
To get started, you can choose from three options: using Microsoft’s cloud-based Windows Backup to sync your settings to the cloud, redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points, or paying $30 (local pricing may vary). Once you select an option and follow the on-screen steps, your PC will automatically be enrolled for ESU coverage.
The free enrollment process is available in Windows Insider builds today, with broad availability expected by mid-August. However, there’s a catch: using Windows Backup to “sync your settings” also copies personal data to OneDrive cloud storage, which may incur additional costs if you haven’t paid for a Microsoft 365 subscription or standalone storage upgrade.
For those willing to participate in Bing search over the course of a week, they can get free ESU coverage.
Source: https://www.zdnet.com/article/how-to-get-windows-10-extended-security-updates-for-free-2-options