Full Breakdown
Microsoft Offers Free Extended Security Updates for Windows 10 in Europe
9/26/2025, 1:24:49 AM
Major Policy Change for European Users
Microsoft has announced a significant policy shift regarding its Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 10 users in the European Economic Area (EEA). Effective immediately, users in this region will receive a year of ESU at no cost, without the previously required conditions of using the Windows Backup app or redeeming Microsoft Rewards points. This change comes as a response to mounting pressure from consumer advocacy groups, particularly Euroconsumers, which argued that the earlier model was anticompetitive and potentially violated the European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA).
Background and Context
The original ESU policy required users to enable Windows Backup, which necessitated a Microsoft account and could lead to additional costs for storage beyond the free 5GB limit. Critics contended that this approach effectively coerced users into Microsoft's cloud ecosystem, raising concerns about compliance with EU regulations. Euroconsumers highlighted that such practices could restrict users' ability to switch between different software applications and services, as mandated by Article 6(6) of the DMA.
Official Statements and Responses
In a statement confirming the policy change, a Microsoft spokesperson noted, "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." Euroconsumers expressed satisfaction with the new arrangement, stating, "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)."
Criticism and Opposition
Despite the positive reception of the policy change in Europe, critics argue that the one-year duration of the ESU program is insufficient. Euroconsumers emphasized that a longer support period is necessary to protect users from security vulnerabilities, especially given the significant number of devices still relying on Windows 10. They also pointed out that the transition to Windows 11 imposes hardware requirements that may leave many users unable to upgrade, thus increasing electronic waste.
Implications for Users Outside Europe
While European users benefit from this unconditional offer, the original terms remain in effect for customers outside the EEA. These users must either enable Windows Backup, pay $30 for a year of updates, or redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points. For businesses, the ESU program is available for purchase for up to three years, with escalating costs.
What's Next
As Microsoft prepares for the official end of support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, the company faces ongoing scrutiny regarding its support policies globally. Euroconsumers continues to advocate for extended support options, urging Microsoft to consider the broader implications of its decisions on consumer trust and sustainability.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The group Euroconsumers responded to the news saying: 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).” — Euroconsumers Group
- “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.” — Microsoft Spokesperson
