Windows 10 support is ending on October 14th, 2025, but Microsoft has been forced to make its Extended Security Updates (ESU) free in parts of Europe after pressure from a consumer advocacy group.
In the European Economic Area (EEA), users will no longer need to turn on Windows Backup to enroll in the free updates, a requirement Microsoft originally imposed to push more people toward using OneDrive.
Microsoft had initially planned to provide one extra year of free security updates only if users enabled Windows Backup, which requires a Microsoft Account and uses OneDrive. This setup could force many people to exceed the free 5GB storage limit and pay for additional cloud space. After complaints from the Euroconsumers group, Microsoft agreed to drop this requirement in Europe, making the updates truly free and without hidden catches.
“We are pleased to learn that Microsoft will provide a no-cost Extended Security Updates (ESU) option for Windows 10 consumer users in the European Economic Area,” Euroconsumers said in a letter this week. “We are also glad this option will not require users to back up settings, apps, or credentials, or use Microsoft Rewards.” A Microsoft spokesperson confirmed the changes, saying the company is updating the enrollment process “to ensure it meets local expectations and delivers a secure, streamlined experience.”
The changes apply only to Europe. Elsewhere, Windows 10 users will still need to enable Windows Backup, pay $30 for one year, or redeem 1,000 Microsoft Reward points to access the updates. Consumers will receive extended updates until October 13th, 2026, while businesses can purchase up to three years of additional support. Euroconsumers continues to push Microsoft to extend security updates further to avoid leaving millions of devices at risk after next year.
If this article helped you, please consider supporting our work. Every small contribution keeps Abijita.com independent and running.
