In response to mounting pressure from consumer advocacy groups like Euroconsumers and tech media outlets such as Windows Central, Microsoft has streamlined its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for users within the European Economic Area (EEA). The updated guidelines were officially confirmed by Microsoft Germany, providing clarity on how private users can access essential updates until October 13, 2026.
EEA users have two options for receiving ESU updates until October 13, 2026:
1. Free option (via Microsoft account)
- Requirement: Users must sign in to their PC using their Microsoft account (MSA) and maintain that sign-in status.
- Details: By remaining signed in with their MSA, users will receive security updates at no cost for one year, extending until October 13, 2026.
- Important: If the Microsoft account is inactive for a period of up to 60 days, ESU updates will cease. Users can reactivate the program by signing in again with the same MSA.
- The previous requirement to utilize the Windows Backup app (Cloud Sync) or redeem Microsoft Rewards points has been eliminated for EEA users.
2. One-time payment
- Requirement: Users must initially sign in with a Microsoft account.
- Cost: A one-time fee of (or the equivalent in local currency) plus taxes allows users to register for the ESU program.
- Advantage: Once registered, ongoing sign-in with the MSA is no longer necessary.
Original rules (outside the EEA)
For users outside the EEA, Microsoft will maintain the original conditional ESU options. Private users must select from the following to continue receiving updates:
- Free via Windows Backup: Synchronizing PC settings with a Microsoft Account (MSA) grants free ESU updates for one year.
- Free via Microsoft Rewards: Users can secure a year of ESU coverage by redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points.
- One-time payment: A one-time fee of covers registration for up to 10 personal devices.
Different terms and conditions apply for business customers
For business clients, the ESU program is available at a rate of per device annually, with renewals permitted for a maximum of three years. Additionally, those operating Windows 10 on virtual machines, such as Windows 365, will benefit from complimentary ESU access without the need for registration or additional steps.
Important limitations of the ESU program
While the ESU program will provide critical and important security updates from October 15, 2025, to October 13, 2026, it is essential to note that this is a temporary solution:
- Only critical and important security vulnerabilities will be addressed.
- The program will not introduce new features, design changes, or non-security updates.
Outlook: Upgrade and Microsoft 365
Microsoft continues to advocate for users to upgrade to Windows 11. For those utilizing Microsoft 365, the associated Office applications will continue to receive security updates on Windows 10 devices until October 10, 2028.
