Windows 10: Free security updates in Europe without conditions

Microsoft has changed the terms of Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 10 under pressure from consumer group Euroconsumers. When support for Windows 10 officially ends on October 14, consumers in the European Economic Area (EEA) will receive free security updates without the requirement to turn on Windows Backup.

Initially, Microsoft required users to activate Windows Backup, which is linked to OneDrive and a Microsoft account. This could result in exceeding the 5 GB free space and incurring additional charges. After intervention by the group Euroconsumers, Microsoft relented and removed this requirement for users in the EEA.

The Euroconsumers group welcomed the move, noting that users would not have to back up their apps, settings or credentials to receive updates. Microsoft confirmed the change, saying it wanted to "meet local expectations."

Users outside the EEA will still need to enable Windows Backup, pay $30 or redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points to get ESU. Free updates will be available until October 13, 2026, while businesses can purchase up to three years of additional protection.

Euroconsumers is now calling on Microsoft to extend the free update period to avoid security risks beyond 2026. Microsoft has not yet responded to these demands.