After Windows 10 ends official support on October 14, 2025, Microsoft will extend the free Extended Service Updates (ESU) program for another year, until October 14, 2026. This will allow users to receive updates without having to sign in to a Microsoft account and sync their PC, but only in the European Economic Area (EEA), reports Windows Central.
"In the European Economic Area, we’re making updates to the enrollment process to ensure it meets local expectations and delivers a secure, streamlined experience. Our goal is to support customers and provide them with options as they transition to Windows 11, with uninterrupted access to critical security updates," the company said in a statement.
These changes were the result of pressure from consumer groups, including Euroconsumers, who took advantage of the provisions of the Digital Markets Act (DMA). Initially, Microsoft planned to limit the ESU program only to users who had made a backup copy of the system, which would have brought the company additional revenue. However, after these groups appealed, the company abandoned this condition.
"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 (EEA). We are also glad this option will not require users to back up settings, apps, or credentials, or use Microsoft Rewards," Euroconsumers said.
Unfortunately, users outside the EEA will not receive these privileges. To continue to have access to Windows 10 updates in other regions, they will have to sign in to their Microsoft account, pay $30, or purchase the upgrade for 1,000 Microsoft Reward points.
However, organizations in other regions are also taking active steps. For example, earlier this month, the American Consumer Reports appealed to Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella with a demand to extend free support for Windows 10 after October 14, 2025.
In addition, in August, a Californian filed a lawsuit against Microsoft over the end of support for Windows 10. He claims that the company is forcing hundreds of millions of users to upgrade their hardware or switch to new devices with Windows 11.