Microsoft will now offer free extended security updates for Windows 10 users in the European Economic Area (EEA). This means Windows 10 users in Europe don’t have to enable Windows Backup or pay extra to get security updates until October 13, 2026.
Originally, Microsoft wanted users to turn on Windows Backup, which uses OneDrive and can push users beyond the free 5GB storage limit. After pressure from Euroconsumers, a European consumer rights group, Microsoft agreed to remove this requirement and give these updates completely free without conditions in Europe.
Outside the EEA, users still need to enable Windows Backup or pay $30 for these security updates. Businesses can buy up to three years of extended updates, but consumers in Europe get one free year. Euroconsumers is also asking Microsoft to extend free updates beyond 2026 to keep millions of Windows 10 users safe.