Redmond, Washington: A major transition awaits millions of computer users as Microsoft officially ends support for its Windows 10 operating system on October 14, marking the end of nearly a decade of updates and improvements.
After this date, Microsoft will no longer issue security updates, bug fixes, or technical support, leaving devices that still run on Windows 10 at a higher risk of malware, viruses, and cyberattacks.
The tech giant is urging users to upgrade to Windows 11, which remains available as a free upgrade for compatible PCs. However, many older computers do not meet the system requirements for Windows 11, potentially forcing users to purchase new devices despite their existing machines working properly.
Who needs to take action?
According to Microsoft, Windows powers more than 1.4 billion devices worldwide, with Statcounter reporting that 43 percent of these still used Windows 10 as of July 2025. In the UK, consumer watchdog Which? estimates that around 21 million people are still running Windows 10.
A September survey by the organisation found that about 25 percent of users plan to keep using the system even after support ends, while one in seven expect to buy new hardware. Criticism has emerged from consumer and environmental advocacy groups, who argue that ending support will contribute to unnecessary spending and e-waste.
Nathan Proctor, Senior Director at the Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) in the US, called the move ‘a disaster for both consumers and the environment,’ also added that, “People are tired of living in a world filled with short-lived devices we can’t fix. We deserve tech that lasts.”
How to prepare for change
Microsoft is offering personal users two main options: upgrade to Windows 11 or enroll in Extended Security Updates (ESU) for a 12-month period. Both options can be accessed through the ‘Privacy and Security’ section in your device settings, and PCs eligible for Windows 11 can receive the upgrade for free.
For users unable to upgrade, ESU will continue to provide essential security updates until October 2026. Personal users can access ESU at no cost if they have updated to the latest version of Windows 10, have a Microsoft account, and back up their PC settings. Otherwise, a fee of $30 (approx. £22) or 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points is required. Business and enterprise users will pay $61 per device, with costs varying by region.
Since its release in 2015, Windows 10 has received regular updates with new features and enhanced security. With support ending, users who continue using the system will no longer receive critical updates, leaving their devices more vulnerable to cyber threats.
Microsoft also warns that older systems may experience reduced app functionality, and businesses using unsupported software could face compliance challenges, according to Microsoft Consumer Chief Marketing Officer Yusuf Mehdi.
Experts have also pointed out that Microsoft’s increasing reliance on accounts for both Windows 11 and ESU schemes could deter users who prefer greater privacy or wish to operate without linking personal data to a Microsoft account.
With the end of Windows 10 approaching, Microsoft emphasises the importance of upgrading or securing extended protection to maintain digital safety and compliance in an evolving cybersecurity landscape.
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