You read that right—Microsoft forced to make Windows 10 extended security updates truly free in Europe after strong pushback from consumer groups. With Windows 10 support ending on October 14th, millions of users were facing tough choices, but now EU-based customers can breathe a sigh of relief.

No More Backup Requirement In The EEA

Microsoft originally planned to tie its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program to Windows Backup. That meant users had to enable the feature—linked to OneDrive and a Microsoft account—to keep receiving critical patches.

The catch? Many people would have quickly blown past their free 5GB OneDrive limit, leading to upsell opportunities for Microsoft’s cloud storage. But thanks to mounting pressure from the Euroconsumers group, this requirement has been dropped—at least for the European Economic Area (EEA).

Consumer Advocacy Makes The Difference

Euroconsumers, a major consumer rights group, argued that forcing backups onto OneDrive was unfair. Many users simply wanted extended protection, not more cloud storage sales tactics.

In a recent statement, the group celebrated Microsoft’s U-turn:

“We are pleased to learn that Microsoft will provide a no-cost Extended Security Updates (ESU) option for Windows 10 consumer users in the EEA. We are also glad this option will not require users to back up settings, apps, or credentials, or use Microsoft Rewards.”

This shift underscores how collective pressure can push tech giants to make changes in favor of consumers.

Only Free In Europe—Elsewhere Still Costs $30

While Microsoft forced to make Windows 10 extended security updates truly free in Europe, users in other regions won’t be so lucky. Outside the EEA, people must still either:

• Enable Windows Backup with a Microsoft account

• Pay $30 for one year of ESU

• Or redeem 1,000 Microsoft Reward points

In short, Europe gets the better deal, while the rest of the world still faces hurdles.

Small Catch: Microsoft Account Still Required

Even in the EEA, Microsoft hasn’t dropped all conditions. To keep access to updates, you must sign into your Microsoft account at least once every 60 days. This ensures devices stay connected to Microsoft’s ecosystem, even without the backup requirement.

What This Means For Windows 10 Users

For millions of Europeans still relying on Windows 10, this is a huge win. With extended updates free and no longer tied to OneDrive, users get another year of security without hidden costs.

But outside Europe, many will feel left out, as Microsoft continues its push to migrate users to Windows 11 or eventually Windows 12.