Microsoft Makes Windows 10 Extended Security Updates FREE in Europe Due to Regulatory Pressure

In Europe, Microsoft has announced that Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) will be provided free of charge for consumer users in the European Economic Area (EEA) as regulators press for continued security updates. Enrollment for ESU is set to begin in early October 2025, with coverage available from 15 October 2025, and Microsoft says the process will vary by region to fit local expectations.

According to Euroconsumers, the free ESU option will not require users to back up settings, apps or credentials, or to use Microsoft Rewards. Across regions, users must link a Microsoft account to apply for ESU licenses; devices with local accounts cannot request a license directly from Microsoft, and in the EEA you typically only need to sign in at least once every 60 days to obtain or renew the ESU license.

If a device remains unsigned for more than 60 days after a license is issued, the ESU license will be revoked until the user signs in again and rebinds the device.