Key Takeaways
1. Windows 10 support ends on October 14, 2025, highlighting the urgency for users to update.
2. Microsoft has simplified support options for users in the European Economic Area (EEA) to include a free option and a one-time payment.
3. Users outside the EEA must choose from original ESU options, which cost $61 per device annually for business clients.
4. The ESU program offers critical security updates from October 15, 2025, to October 13, 2026, but is temporary.
5. Microsoft recommends upgrading to Windows 11, with Microsoft 365 applications receiving updates on Windows 10 until October 10, 2028.
The end of support for Windows 10 is set for October 14, 2025, and this has been a hot topic for quite some time. Many users who have not yet updated are starting to realize the importance of this deadline, especially since other major companies are making similar announcements. For instance, Valve has stated that it will stop providing Steam updates for the 32-bit version of Windows 10 starting January 1, 2026.
Changes in European Support
Due to pressure from consumer advocacy groups like Euroconsumers and tech news outlets such as Windows Central regarding the initial ESU requirements (which included things like cloud backup and rewards points), Microsoft has decided to make things easier for users in the European Economic Area (EEA). Microsoft Germany has confirmed the final options available for individuals in the EEA.
1. Free option (through Microsoft account)
2. One-time payment
Options for Users Outside the EEA
For users outside the EEA, Microsoft is keeping the original ESU options. These private users have to select one of the following choices if they wish to keep receiving updates:
The ESU program for business clients costs $61 per device each year. Users can renew for a maximum of three years.
If you’re operating Windows 10 on virtual machines like Windows 365, you can access ESU at no cost, and there is no need for registration or any additional steps.
Temporary Updates and Future Recommendations
The ESU program will provide critical and important security updates from October 15, 2025, until October 13, 2026, but this is just a short-term fix.
Microsoft still suggests that users upgrade to Windows 11. For those who use Microsoft 365, the related Office applications will keep receiving security updates on Windows 10 devices until October 10, 2028.
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