Overview

• Windows 10 users in the European Economic Area will get no-cost Extended Security Updates through October 14, 2026, without having to use Windows Backup/OneDrive or Microsoft Rewards.
• Microsoft now confirms an account requirement in Europe: users must enroll with a Microsoft account and sign in at least once every 60 days or ESU access will be paused until re-enrollment.
• Microsoft says EEA enrollment begins rolling out in early October, with coverage starting October 15, 2025, and the latest Windows update is required to enroll.
• Outside the EEA, access to consumer ESU still hinges on one of three options: enable Windows Backup and sync settings, pay $30, or redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points.
• Euroconsumers and allied groups credit DMA-related pressure for the change and are urging a longer, broader extension as many PCs cannot move to Windows 11, while businesses retain multi-year paid ESU options.