Microsoft has made a significant announcement regarding its Extended Support Updates (ESU) for Windows 10, revealing that starting this October, these updates will be offered free of charge exclusively within the European Economic Area (EEA). This move comes alongside the decision to phase out alternative data-sharing measures that previously allowed users to maintain their Windows 10 devices in the region.
Changes to Enrollment Process
In a statement to Windows Central, Microsoft emphasized its commitment to aligning the enrollment process with local expectations, aiming to provide a secure and streamlined experience for users. This adjustment is particularly noteworthy as consumer advocacy groups, including Euroconsumers, have criticized the ESU plan as a form of planned obsolescence.
As the official end of support for Windows 10 approaches on October 14, 2025, Microsoft has clarified that users who wish to continue using the operating system must enroll in the ESU program to receive essential security updates for one year following the end-of-life date. For those who are either unwilling or unable to transition to the newer Windows 11, enrollment in this program is crucial.
New Login Requirements
During the ESU period, users will no longer be barred from accessing their local Windows 10 accounts. Instead, they will need to log in to their Microsoft account on the device every 60 days. Failure to do so will result in the termination of end-of-life update support for that device.
The EEA encompasses the member states of the European Union, along with Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein. For users outside this region, those wishing to remain on Windows 10 and continue receiving security updates will still be required to pay a fee of or submit their settings data to the Microsoft cloud.
Looking Ahead
With the end of life for Windows 10 looming just weeks away, the landscape for the approximately 240 million PCs that cannot upgrade to Windows 11 is shifting. Many users are weighing their options, with some prepared to pay the fee to extend their Windows 10 experience for another year. However, a growing number are considering a transition to alternative operating systems, such as Linux, as they explore new possibilities.
