Microsoft reveals a surprising catch to extended support for Windows 10 that's going to seriously annoy some people

image via TechRadar

August 8, 2025, 2:30 PM

• •Windows 10's extended update scheme requires a Microsoft account, even for paid updates.
• •The $30 ESU license is tied to your Microsoft account.
• •The extended support program can be used on up to 10 devices.

Microsoft is now requiring users to have a Microsoft account to receive extended security updates for Windows 10, even if they pay the $30 fee. This requirement, discovered in a Microsoft support document, has upset users who may not want to link their PC to a Microsoft account. The extended support program covers up to 10 devices, all needing to be signed into the same Microsoft account. Many users are concerned about the account requirement, especially given Microsoft's push towards Microsoft accounts in Windows 11.

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