Microsoft will end official support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. After that date, Windows 10 will no longer receive security updates, new features, or technical support. In this article, we will provide an overview of the risks associated with using outdated software and outline different options for preparing for the end of support for Windows 10.
Risks
Using outdated software can affect your computer's security, compatibility, and support services, posing several risks:
- Increasing security threats
- Security vulnerabilities: New security holes and vulnerabilities remain unpatched, making the system more vulnerable to cybercriminals.
- Viruses and malware: The risk of getting viruses or other malware on your computer increases, as cybercriminals often focus on software solutions whose support has ended and whose security mechanisms are not updated.
- Compatibility issues
- New programs and apps may no longer be compatible with Windows 10 after product support ends.
- New devices, such as printers, scanners, or graphics cards, may not provide drivers compatible with Windows 10.
- Lack of support and help in case of problems
- Neither Microsoft nor third-party service providers may not provide technical support for resolving issues with Windows 10. If something goes wrong, you will have to resolve the issues yourself or upgrade to a newer system.
To reduce these risks, you should always keep the operating system and software on your devices up to date and updated.
What to do next?
- Determine which version of Windows is on your computer.
- Select "System" > "About" > "Windows Specification".
- If you have Windows 11, everything is fine and you can continue with regular software updates (set up automatic software updates if possible).
- If you have Windows 10, read through the following options and choose how you want to proceed to prepare for the end of product support.
- Check if your computer's hardware allows you to upgrade to Windows 11.
- Upgrading to Windows 11 is free if your computer meets the minimum hardware requirements for Windows 11.
- Go to "Settings" > "Privacy & Security" > "Windows Update" and check if there is an option to update to Windows 11.
- If the transition is possible, the option to install Windows 11 will also be offered.
- If your computer does not meet the minimum hardware requirements for Windows 11
- Adopt an alternative operating system, such as Linux, that works with existing hardware.
- Purchase the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10. This provides security-only updates and can be purchased as an annual subscription for a maximum of three years.
- Using Windows 10 without security updates is strictly not recommended, as it leaves the system vulnerable to cyberattacks. A vulnerable device can also pose a threat to other devices connected to the same network (other devices can also be attacked through a vulnerable device).
- Get a new computer that supports Windows 11.
Do not continue using Windows 10 without a security update!
Additional sources of information
If you want to know more about Microsoft's plans, read more in the information sheet End of support for Windows 10, Windows 8.1 and Windows 7.
The article and the end of product support apply to Windows 10 Enterprise, Education, Home, and Pro editions.
The article and the general end of support for Windows 10 does not apply to the following products:
- Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021, whose official support ends on January 12, 2027.
- Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021, whose official support ends on January 13, 2032.
