Microsoft is preparing to end support for Windows 10 in October 2025, signaling a major transition for millions of PC users worldwide.
Currently, 64% of Windows users are still on Windows 10, while only half as many have upgraded to Windows 11 .
Key Highlights
– Free security updates will conclude on October 14, 2025
– Microsoft is actively encouraging users to upgrade to Windows 11
– New AI-powered PCs and Copilot+ features are being promoted as upgrade incentives
The company is employing a dual strategy: introducing appealing new PCs with advanced AI functionalities while simultaneously warning users about the impending end of Windows 10 support.
Microsoft hopes this will motivate users to transition to Windows 11, which offers enhanced performance, improved design, and AI capabilities.
Extended Security Updates
You can buy extra time to protect your Windows 10 computer through a program called Extended Security Updates (ESU). This program starts in 2025.
When you pay for ESU, you’ll get:
-Important security updates for your Windows 10 computer
-Critical security fixes
However, ESU will not give you:
-Regular Windows updates
-Technical support
-New features
Interestingly, despite the upcoming end of support, Windows 10 remains the most-used traditional PC operating system, currently holding a 46% market share.
This suggests that many users may be hesitant to immediately upgrade, potentially compelling Microsoft to be flexible with its support timeline.
Next steps: Switch to Linux
You can choose to upgrade to Windows 11. This may require upgrading to newer hardware if Windows 11 is incompatible with your current PC. Alternatively save the upgrade costs and switch to Linux. There are lots of options for these ranging from easy to use distros to those that can work smoothly on older PCs. Do take a look and see if those are suitable.
All done.