The Windows 10 end of support is officially set for 14 October 2025. This decision will affect millions of users around the world who still depend on the familiar operating system for their daily work and personal use. Once the deadline passes, devices running Windows 10 will no longer receive vital security updates, leaving them exposed to serious cyber risks unless users upgrade or register for extended protection.
Microsoft confirmed that it will stop delivering updates, patches, and technical assistance for Windows 10 after October 2025. The company’s announcement impacts nearly half of its global Windows user base. According to data from Statcounter, around 43 percent of Windows users were still using Windows 10 as of July 2025.
In the United Kingdom, consumer advocacy group Which? estimated that roughly 21 million people are still relying on the operating system. Once support ends, those devices will gradually become more vulnerable to viruses, ransomware, and other online attacks as newer security updates will only target Windows 11 and beyond.
Microsoft is encouraging users to upgrade to Windows 11, available as a free update for compatible computers. However, many older PCs do not meet the strict hardware requirements. This means a large number of otherwise functional computers could soon be left behind.
Nathan Proctor, senior director at the US consumer group PIRG, described the shift as a major setback for both consumers and the environment. He told the BBC that millions of usable devices could be discarded simply because they cannot run the latest operating system.
The advocacy group Right to Repair added that up to 400 million computers could be rendered obsolete, potentially generating more than 700 million kilograms of electronic waste. Proctor expressed frustration, saying people are tired of being forced to replace perfectly working devices due to short-term software support.
To reduce immediate risks, Microsoft is offering an Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10. This option provides essential security patches for one more year, ending on 13 October 2026.
Users in the European Economic Area can access ESU free of charge by registering eligible devices. The program covers Windows 10 versions 22H2 of Home, Professional, Pro Education, and Workstations editions. Registration requires a Microsoft account and installation of the latest system updates.
Outside the EEA, users can either pay a $30 fee or use 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points per year to register. Each ESU licence can cover up to ten devices, while business organisations are charged $61 per device.
As Microsoft shifts its focus to Windows 11 and cloud-integrated platforms, developers will also start reducing compatibility for older systems. Over time, many applications built for Windows 10 may stop receiving updates or become unstable.
Yusuf Mehdi, Microsoft’s Chief Marketing Officer for Consumer Services, warned that companies running unsupported systems may face compliance issues and higher security exposure. Without regular updates, older devices will become easier targets for cybercriminals exploiting unpatched vulnerabilities.
Environmental advocates argue that the end of Windows 10 support highlights a larger issue in the technology industry. The limited lifespan of software pushes millions of consumers toward unnecessary hardware upgrades. This constant cycle increases electronic waste and energy use.
Critics also say Microsoft’s approach pressures users into linking their devices with online accounts and cloud services, creating accessibility barriers for those who prefer offline or privacy-focused computing.
With the Windows 10 end of support approaching, users have three main options. They can upgrade to Windows 11 if their hardware allows it, enrol in the ESU program for extended protection, or continue using Windows 10 at their own risk.
Each path comes with trade-offs in cost, convenience, and environmental impact. Users who rely on older devices should back up important data, install all remaining Windows 10 updates, and explore lightweight alternatives if upgrading is not possible.
The countdown to the Windows 10 end of support has already begun. Whether for personal computers or business systems, the transition period offers a final opportunity to secure devices, plan upgrades, and protect data before Microsoft permanently ends support. Taking proactive steps now will help users avoid disruptions and stay safe in an increasingly digital world.
