Windows 10 ESU: Microsoft forces account creation despite license purchase

One year of additional support for Windows 10 always requires an account with Microsoft – By purchasing an ESU license, users do not escape this requirement, as Microsoft has now specified. However, an ESU license is valid for up to 10 devices, so anyone using multiple clients does not have to purchase a separate ESU license for each system. Originally, Microsoft's announcement of the Extended Security Updates for end users made it sound as if the account requirement only applied to free access to the program including OneDrive synchronization.

Alternatively, users can redeem 1000 Microsoft Reward Points, but an account is also required here. Registration for the ESU program takes place via a wizard in the notifications or the Windows update settings. Microsoft will end general support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, after which customers will no longer receive technical support, feature updates or security updates. Companies can participate in the paid ESU program for three years, but for end users the ESUs are only a transitional solution until October 2026.

Microsoft is gradually distributing the ESU program to users, and it should be generally available from mid-August. The extended updates only include security patches, but no new features or other support for users. Windows users can find details about the ESU program on the Microsoft support page. According to current statistics, Windows 10 remains the most widely used operating system in Germany despite the end of support. One reason for this is that many end devices do not meet the requirements for Windows 11.

(fo)