September 26, 2025, 3:39 pm | Read time: 2 minutes
Official support for Windows 10 ends on October 14, 2025, but Microsoft is offering a free extension of security updates in the EEA (European Economic Area) until 2026. This requires the use of a Microsoft account. Alternatively, paid options like OneDrive backup or a rewards program were planned. The European consumer protection organization Euroconsumers saw this as a violation of EU laws. Microsoft has conceded to avoid legal conflicts.
On October 14, 2025, official support for Windows 10 ends. This originally meant that users would no longer receive updates starting October 15 unless they switched to Windows 11. However, Microsoft has proposed an update extension, which was initially associated with costs. Thanks to consumer protection advocates, there is now a positive turn of events.
Requirements for the Support Extension
In the European Economic Area (EEA), users will receive the Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 10 free of charge until October 14, 2026, according to “Windows Central.” This decision by Microsoft means that private users will receive important security updates for another year without exposing their devices to security risks. However, one condition remains: linking their Windows installation to a Microsoft account.
Users who use Windows with a local account must switch to a Microsoft account to receive the ESU. This may be an additional step for some, but the alternatives are significantly more expensive.
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Original Plans by Microsoft
Microsoft had originally planned three methods to obtain the ESU. One option was to participate in the Microsoft Rewards program, where users would need to collect 1,000 loyalty points. These points can be earned through intensive use of Microsoft products and surveys, which require time and personal data.
Another option was to use Windows Backup in combination with OneDrive cloud storage. Since the free storage space of 5 gigabytes is usually insufficient, a paid subscription would be necessary, which could cost between 20 and 99 euros per device annually. The third option was a direct payment of 30 U.S. dollars (approximately 26 euros).
Reactions from Consumer Advocates
The European consumer protection organization Euroconsumers saw these conditions as violations of EU law. They accused Microsoft of gaining financial benefits from this arrangement. To avoid legal disputes, Microsoft has relaxed the regulations for users in the EEA, allowing them another year of using Windows 10 without security concerns. However, what happens after this year remains to be seen.