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Windows Central
Windows Central
Technology
Zac Bowden

Major backtrack as Microsoft makes Windows 10 extended security updates FREE for an extra year — but only in certain markets

Microsoft Windows EEA Euroconsumers
Windows 10 running on a laptop with desktop elements displayed on its screen.

Microsoft has confirmed that it is making access to Windows 10's extended support updates (ESU) program completely free for an additional year, until October 14, 2026, for regions in the European Economic Area (EEA.) This change means users will no longer be required to sync their PC settings to the cloud via a Microsoft account for free access to extended security updates throughout the next 12 months.

The company has confirmed the change in a statement to Windows Central:

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