Windows 10 Support Extended in Europe, Offering Free Security Updates Until 2026
The official end-of-life for Windows 10 is rapidly approaching on October 14, 2025. For millions of users, this deadline has raised significant concerns about system security. However, for those in Europe, there’s welcome news: a one-year extension of free security support has been confirmed, providing a crucial safety net for individuals and businesses.
This extension means that PCs running Windows 10 within the European Economic Area (EEA) will continue to receive critical security updates at no cost until October 2026. This is a significant development, as users in other regions will be required to pay for Extended Security Updates (ESUs) to keep their systems protected beyond the 2025 cutoff.
What Are Extended Security Updates (ESUs)?
When a Microsoft operating system reaches its end-of-life, it stops receiving regular updates, including patches for newly discovered security vulnerabilities. This leaves the system exposed to malware, ransomware, and other cyber threats.
The Extended Security Updates (ESU) program is designed to bridge this gap, typically for enterprise customers who cannot immediately upgrade their hardware. It provides critical and important security patches, but it does not include new features, design changes, or non-security fixes.
For users in the EEA, the first year of this ESU program will now be free. This is a temporary reprieve, not a permanent solution. The goal is to give users more time to transition to a modern, supported operating system like Windows 11.
Who Is Eligible for the Free Updates?
The offer for one year of free security updates is specifically for Windows 10 users in the European Economic Area (EEA). The EEA includes all 27 European Union member states, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway. Users in Switzerland are also reported to be included in this extension.
If you are located outside of these regions, you should assume that your Windows 10 support will end on October 14, 2025, unless you purchase an ESU plan.
Actionable Security Advice: What Should You Do Now?
While this extension provides valuable breathing room, it’s essential to use this time wisely. Here are the steps you should take to ensure your long-term security.
Plan Your Upgrade to Windows 11: The most secure and future-proof solution is to upgrade to Windows 11. It includes modern security architecture, such as mandatory TPM 2.0 support and enhanced phishing protection, which are not available on Windows 10. Use this extra year to plan for a new PC purchase or to upgrade your existing hardware if it meets the system requirements.
Don’t Become Complacent: The free ESU program only covers security patches. Your system will not receive any new features or performance improvements. Windows 11 offers a more refined user experience, better performance on modern hardware, and ongoing feature development that you will be missing out on.
Verify Your Hardware Compatibility: If you’re considering an in-place upgrade, use Microsoft’s PC Health Check app to determine if your current computer meets the minimum system requirements for Windows 11. Key requirements include a compatible 64-bit processor, 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, and TPM version 2.0.
Enhance Your Current Security: Regardless of your operating system, maintain strong security practices. Ensure you are running a reputable antivirus program, keep your web browser and other applications updated, use a firewall, and be cautious of phishing emails and suspicious downloads.
The Bottom Line
The decision to provide an additional year of free security updates for European Windows 10 users is a positive move that will help protect millions from immediate cyber threats. However, the message remains clear: the future is Windows 11. This extension is a temporary bridge, and all users should be actively planning their transition to a modern and fully supported operating system to ensure their digital safety for years to come.
Source: https://www.helpnetsecurity.com/2025/09/25/windows-10-extended-security-updates-europe/
