Upon examining my mother’s desktop, I discovered she was still operating on a HP machine from 2009. This revelation not only dashed hopes of diving into my Steam backlog but also highlighted the looming challenges posed by Windows 11’s stringent system requirements. With official support for Windows 10 set to conclude on October 14, the question arises: will my mother’s well-maintained Windows 10 machine soon be obsolete?
While I could guide her through the complexities of bypassing Windows 11’s requirements, a more straightforward solution has emerged—staying with Windows 10 for an additional year. By simply logging into her Microsoft account, she can enroll in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which will keep her operating system updated and secure at no extra cost until October 13, 2026, as reported by Bleeping Computer.
This enrollment can be achieved without incurring additional expenses, either through Microsoft Rewards points—presumably a hidden treasure trove for many—or by enabling Windows Backup, a less appealing option for some. Notably, following advocacy from Euroconsumers, a consumer protection organization based in Luxembourg, Microsoft has streamlined the process for those in the European Economic Area (EEA), making it easier to access these essential updates.
Concerns Raised by Euroconsumers
In response to Microsoft’s previous communications, Euroconsumers expressed satisfaction with the extension of security updates but raised several concerns. They stated, “The ESU program is limited to one year, leaving devices that remain fully functional exposed to risk after October 13, 2026. Such a short-term measure falls short of what consumers can reasonably expect for a product that remains widely used.” The organization further criticized Microsoft’s apparent acceleration of Windows 10’s phase-out timeline, contrasting it with the more extended support periods enjoyed by previous versions, such as Windows 7 and XP.
These points resonate strongly, especially considering that as recently as March, Windows 10 remained the most popular operating system in the monthly Steam survey. For those outside the EEA, like my mother and myself, Microsoft provides a dedicated webpage outlining options for enrolling in the ESU program. The choices include enabling Windows Backup, utilizing 1,000 Microsoft Points, or making a one-time payment of (or the local currency equivalent plus applicable tax). Perhaps it’s time for some polite yet firm correspondence from this side of the Atlantic.
