Microsoft forced to make Windows 10 extended security updates truly free in Europe

Windows 10 end of support is approaching in less than three weeks, and Microsoft has now been forced to make its extended security updates truly free, without a catch, in certain markets in Europe. When Windows 10 goes end of support on October 14th, some European customers will no longer be required to turn on Windows Backup to enroll into its Extended Security Updates (ESU). Microsoft had wanted everyone to turn on Windows Backup to get the extra year of security updates, but thanks to pressure from the Euroconsumers group this is now changing in the European Economic Area. The consumer advocacy group has been asking Microsoft to do more for those still running Windows 10 across Europe, and it has successfully convinced the software giant to offer the extended security updates free without the requirement of enabling Windows Backup. Windows Backup requires a Microsoft Account and uses OneDrive, which could lead consumers to go above the 5GB of free storage by having to back up documents and settings. It’s a catch that benefits Microsoft, as it can then sell Windows 10 users additional OneDrive storage space. “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),” says the Euroconsumers group in a letter this week. “We are also glad this option will not require users to back up settings, apps, or credentials, or use Microsoft Rewards.” An unnamed Microsoft spokesperson confirmed the changes to Windows Central, noting that it’s “making updates to the enrollment process to ensure it meets local expectations and delivers a secure, streamlined experience.” These changes are only being made in the EEA though, so everywhere else will still need to either enable Windows Backup or pay $30 for the year or redeem 1,000 Microsoft Reward points. While Windows Backup will no longer be required in the EEA, you’ll still need to sign into a Microsoft account at least once every 60 days to keep access to the extended security updates. “If you do not continue to sign in to your PC with your Microsoft account, ESU updates will stop for your device after a period of time, up to 60 days,” says Microsoft in a French FAQ. Consumers will still only get extended security updates for Windows 10 until October 13th, 2026, but businesses have the option to purchase up to three years of important security updates. Euroconsumers is also trying to convince Microsoft to extend its security updates beyond a year for consumers, to avoid leaving devices “exposed to risk” next year. Update, September 26th: Article updated with Microsoft account requirement for EEA users.