After nearly 10 years of service, Microsoft officially ends free support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, marking the end of security updates, bug fixes, and technical assistance for all mainstream versions.
Here are five key things users must know:
1. What ends and what remains
From today, Windows 10 systems will continue to operate, but no more security patches, feature updates, or official Microsoft support will be provided. Microsoft will redirect support requests to upgrade paths.
2. Extended Security Updates (ESU) for one more year
Microsoft is offering an Extended Security Updates (ESU) program allowing eligible users to get security updates until October 13, 2026, via methods such as enrolling via Microsoft account, redeeming rewards points, or paying a nominal fee.
3. Office / Microsoft 365 support also ends
Support for Microsoft 365 apps on Windows 10 will cease as well. After October 14, 2025, users of Office and 365 apps may face performance, reliability, or compatibility issues unless they upgrade to a supported OS.
4. Upgrade to Windows 11 (if hardware allows)
The recommended path is upgrading to Windows 11, but devices will need to meet certain hardware requirements (e.g. TPM 2.0, secure boot, CPU generation). If devices aren’t compatible, users may have to consider buying new PCs or other OS alternatives.
5. Risks of staying on unsupported OS
Running Windows 10 post-support increases exposure to cybersecurity threats, unpatched vulnerabilities, software incompatibility, and lack of vendor assistance. Some users say Microsoft’s stringent hardware rules for Windows 11 force difficult choices.
