Microsoft just dropped an emergency out-of-band update, KB5071959, to fix a critical bug that was preventing Windows 10 users from enrolling in the paid Extended Security Updates or ESU program. This is a big deal because Windows 10 officially hit its end-of-support date on October 14, 2025.
The only way to keep your system patched was released today, but it also crashed today. This issue meant users were literally locked out of the security coverage the company offered, for at least a bit. Microsoft confirmed that the bug was causing the ESU enrollment wizard to fail during the sign-up process. I signed up today, and it takes about five clicks total, so it is a pretty fast bug to see.
The update itself is labeled as an out-of-band release, which means Microsoft pushed it outside of the normal Patch Tuesday schedule because of the severity of the issue. KB5071959 is cumulative, so it bundles in security fixes and improvements from the October 14 security update, KB5066791. After this update, your computer should be able to enroll in ESU using the wizard just like you'd expect.
Once that enrollment is completed, you will be able to get those essential Extended Security Updates through Windows Update. Make sure to press check for updates after signing up to see if your device needs one. A few minutes after I pressed the button, I got three updates at once, so there are some waiting for you right now.
For those still running Windows 10, the ESU program is the only way to get patches for newly discovered bugs and security vulnerabilities. This is essentially buying time before you have to upgrade to Windows 11. The program offers a maximum of three more years of support, but you're going to have to pay.
The cost structure is pretty interesting, especially depending on whether you are a home user or an enterprise customer. Home users pay $30 per device per year. Enterprise customers have a steeper climb, starting at $61 per device per year, totaling $183 for those who stay for the entire ESU program.
I only signed up for the free months because I am too lazy to add Linux to my systems right now. Otherwise, I'd rather move to Linux than pay to stay in the ESU program or go to Windows 11.
Keep in mind that you can actually enroll for free by using Microsoft Rewards points or by enabling Windows Backup. This lets you keep your older hardware secure without spending extra cash. If you live in the European Economic Area, you also have a free enrollment option. You can enroll in the ESU program at no cost with the Microsoft account you use to log in to Windows.
If you were affected by this enrollment bug, installing the fix is straightforward but requires a few specific steps. First, you need to navigate to the Windows Update settings page and select "Check for updates." You then need to install the OOB update KB5071959 and make sure you restart your device to complete the installation.
Source: Microsoft via Bleeping Computer
