Microsoft’s Surprising Update on Windows 10 Security Support in the EEA
In a notable shift just weeks before the conclusion of support for Windows 10, Microsoft has announced the removal of all prerequisites for enrolling devices in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. This initiative, which extends security updates for an additional year, is currently available exclusively to users within the European Economic Area (EEA).
Initial Plans vs. Current Changes
Originally, Microsoft’s strategy aimed to offer users a choice to receive one more year of updates for a fee of $30, the equivalent of 1, 000 Microsoft Rewards points, or a simple settings backup via a Microsoft Account. This effectively created a no-cost solution for many users as long as they were willing to share some data with the tech giant. However, this policy has taken a new direction for Windows 10 users in Europe.
Confirmation of New Enrollment Process
A spokesperson from Microsoft has stated that customers located in the EEA will no longer need to pay or provide any data in exchange for these security updates. This shift underscores the company’s commitment to ensuring a user-friendly experience:
“In the European Economic Area, we’re making updates to the enrollment process to ensure it meets local expectations and delivers a secure, streamlined experience. Our goal is to support customers and provide them with options as they transition to Windows 11, with uninterrupted access to critical security updates.”
Consumer Group Support
A letter from Euroconsumers confirmed Microsoft’s new stance, noting that users in the EEA will benefit from a cost-free ESU option for Windows 10. This development quells concerns raised under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) regarding the linking of essential security updates to user engagement with Microsoft’s services:
“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).We are also glad this option will not require users to back up settings, apps, or credentials, or use Microsoft Rewards. This was our main Digital Markets Act (DMA) related concern, as linking access to essential security updates to engagement with Microsoft’s own services raised reasonable doubt of compliance with obligations under Article 6(6) of the DMA.”
Key Program Details
Despite this new no-cost option, Microsoft has not altered the overall timeline for the Extended Security Updates program. Home PC users should be aware that security updates will cease once the ESU program concludes on October 13, 2026. On the other hand, businesses have the opportunity to extend the lifecycle of their Windows 10 systems for up to three additional years by paying fees for each device enrolled in the program.
For further details, refer to the source: Windows Central.
More information can also be found at Neowin.
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