Goodbye to Windows 10: This is the date Microsoft will stop updating its operating system for millions of users
Microsoft will end official support for Windows 10 in October 2025, although it will offer future paid security updates for businesses and advanced users.
This October marks a major turning point for millions of PC users worldwide: Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 on Tuesday, October 14, 2025 at 12:00 AM EST. That means no more security updates, bug fixes, or technical support for everyday users.
While businesses can still receive patches through Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, the company is shifting its full focus to Windows 11.
Why this matters
Without critical updates, Windows 10 systems will become increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks, malware, and system instability. The operating system will still run on existing devices, but any new threats that emerge won’t be addressed—leaving users exposed.
Your options moving forward
If you’re still using Windows 10, you’ve got three paths to consider:
- Stay on Windows 10. This is the riskiest option. You’ll be using an outdated OS with no protection against new vulnerabilities, compatibility issues, or performance glitches.
- Upgrade to Windows 11. If your PC meets the hardware requirements—including TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and other specs—this is the safest and most future-proof choice. Windows 11 offers a modern architecture with enhanced encryption, memory management, and built-in defenses against today’s threats.
- Enroll in the ESU Program. Designed for businesses and IT professionals, this paid service extends security updates for up to three more years. In the European Economic Area (EEA), Microsoft will offer ESU access for free to eligible users who sign in with a Microsoft account and register properly.
A decade-old OS in a new digital era
Windows 10 launched in July 2015—an era when digital threats and hardware capabilities were vastly different. Over the past decade, both have evolved dramatically. Microsoft sees Windows 11 not just as a visual upgrade, but as a necessary leap forward in security and performance.
Also, in the European Union, Microsoft has announced that users in the European Economic Area (EEA) will be able to access this paid program for free, provided they use a Microsoft account and register correctly. This way, the real impact of the end of support will be more noticeable among those who are not part of a corporate structure or lack the resources to obtain a modern computer.
In short, for millions of users around the world who still depend on Windows 10, this end of cycle represents a turning point: deciding whether to continue in an increasingly vulnerable ecosystem, or to make the final leap towards a more modern and secure operating system.
If your device supports Windows 11, start planning your upgrade now. If it doesn’t, explore whether ESU is available to you, consider upgrading your hardware, or look into purchasing a new PC that meets Windows 11 requirements.
The best defense against digital threats is a proactive strategy—not waiting until problems arise. With the end of Windows 10 support just days away, now’s the time to act.
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