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A significant shift is on the horizon for numerous Windows computer users.
Microsoft is set to discontinue support for its Windows 10 operating system, potentially placing these machines at risk after October 14th.
The cessation of security updates will render devices increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats.
Microsoft is advocating for a free upgrade to Windows 11, although compatibility limitations exist for some computers.
“The end of support for Windows 10 is shaping up to be a disaster for both consumers and the environment,” stated Nathan Proctor, senior director at US consumer group PIRG.
What implications does this have for you?
Windows holds the position of the world’s most widely used computer operating system, with Microsoft reporting its presence on over 1.4 billion devices globally.
Approximately 43% of these devices were running Windows 10 as of July 2025, according to Statcounter.
In the UK, consumer advocacy group Which? estimates that around 21 million individuals may still be utilizing Windows 10.
In September, a survey conducted by Which? revealed that approximately a quarter of these users intend to continue using the OS even after Microsoft’s official support concludes.
Roughly one in seven respondents indicated plans to purchase a new computer.
Other consumer groups have voiced criticism regarding the cessation of Windows 10 support, citing potential for unnecessary expenditure and environmental repercussions.
“People are tired of living in a world filled with short-lived devices we can’t fix, or lose software support or are otherwise forced into the waste stream,” said Mr. Proctor, an advocate for the right to repair in the US.
He further stated, “We deserve tech that lasts.”
Microsoft is effectively presenting personal users with two primary options: upgrade to Windows 11 or subscribe to extended security updates for a period of 12 months.
These options can be accessed within the “Privacy and Security” section of your settings.
Individuals with PCs compatible with Windows 11 are eligible for a complimentary upgrade.
However, many users “will have to purchase new devices – despite the fact that their current computers work just fine,” according to Mr. Proctor.
For those who prefer not to upgrade immediately or whose devices are incompatible with Windows 11, enrollment in a program providing essential security updates until October 2026 is possible.
This program is known as Extended Security Updates (ESU), although it excludes technical support and other software updates.
Residents of the European Economic Area can obtain it at no cost through registration. For other users to get it for free, they need to have updated to the latest version of Windows 10, have a Microsoft account and backed up their PC settings.
Alternatively, a fee of $30 (£22) or the redemption of 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points grants access to ESU.
For commercial organizations utilizing Windows 10, the cost is $61 per device.
The specific cost may vary based on geographical location.
Since its launch in 2015, Microsoft has maintained Windows 10 through regular software updates.
These updates have served to refine existing features, introduce new functionalities, and address security vulnerabilities and bugs.
The company recommends users upgrade to Windows 11 without charge, although certain older devices may lack the capability to run the new operating system.
Microsoft is also making it harder to use Windows 11 without a Microsoft account – and one way to extend the life of your Windows 10 machine also requires a Microsoft account.
Some users may prefer to avoid logging in with a Microsoft account for privacy considerations.
Microsoft will cease the distribution of critical security updates and fixes to Windows 10 PCs.
This can elevate the vulnerability of devices to threats such as viruses or malicious software, as the latest defenses against attacks will no longer be provided.
Recent months have witnessed a series of high-profile cyber-attacks targeting businesses spanning retail, automotive manufacturing, and even childcare facilities.
Organizations may also “find it challenging to maintain regulatory compliance with unsupported software,” Microsoft Consumer Chief Marketing Officer Yusuf Mehdi noted in a blog post.
Users may also observe a reduction in functionality for other software, as developers may discontinue the provision of their latest features to older operating systems.
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