As the clock ticks down to October 14, 2025, Microsoft has intensified its efforts to alert Windows 10 users about the impending end of support deadline.
After this date, the decade-old operating system will no longer receive security updates, bug fixes, technical assistance, or time zone updates, leaving millions of devices potentially vulnerable to emerging cyber threats.
What End of Support Means for Users
Despite Windows 10’s continued dominance with approximately 60-70% market share across all Windows versions, Microsoft is holding its 10-year support lifecycle policy firm.
While Windows 10 devices will continue to function after the deadline, they will become increasingly susceptible to malware, hacking attempts, and compatibility issues with newer software and hardware.
“As security threats evolve and adapt, so must our operating systems and hardware,” Microsoft stated in a recent blog post.
The company emphasizes that Windows 11 was designed to be “the most secure version of Windows ever – by default and design” to help users stay ahead of evolving risks.
Options Available to Users
Microsoft has outlined several paths forward for the hundreds of millions of Windows 10 users worldwide:
- Upgrade to Windows 11 (if compatible): Users can check if their current Windows 10 PC meets the minimum requirements for a free upgrade to Windows 11 through Windows Update.
- Purchase a new Windows 11 PC: For devices that cannot be upgraded due to hardware limitations, Microsoft recommends buying a new computer with Windows 11 pre-installed.
- Extended Security Updates Program: For the first time, Microsoft will offer Extended Security Updates (ESU) to individual consumers at $30 for one year of continued security updates. Organizations face higher costs, starting at $61 per device for the first year, with prices doubling each subsequent year.
- Continue using Windows 10 unsupported: While not recommended, devices will continue to function but without security protections.
The end of support has broader implications beyond individual users. Many businesses are still transitioning from Windows 10, with some having only recently completed their migration from Windows 7.
Microsoft has announced that Microsoft 365 apps will continue receiving security updates on Windows 10 for three years after the end of support date, until October 10, 2028.
For organizations requiring extended support, Windows 10 virtual machines running in services like Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, and other Microsoft cloud platforms will receive ESU at no additional cost.
Planning for Transition
With less than six months remaining until the deadline, experts recommend users begin planning their transition strategy immediately.
This includes conducting a comprehensive IT audit, developing a clear roadmap, and focusing on strengthening security measures during the transition.
Microsoft has provided tools to help with the migration, including Windows Backup and OneDrive for transferring personal files, settings, and applications securely.
Whether upgrading to Windows 11, purchasing new hardware, or investing in Extended Security Updates, the message from Microsoft is clear: the time to prepare for Windows 10’s end of support is now.
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