As per Microsoft, the 22H2 iteration of Windows 10 will be the last iteration of the OS, as they plan to discontinue it in 2025. The last free security updates for users will be rolled out by October 14th, 2025, which will mark the end of support for Windows 10. Netizens have different opinions on this. For some, Windows 10 has been the ultimate OS with a balance of everything, while others struggle to digest the news.
Undoubtedly, Windows 10 has been one of the most popular and preferred Windows operating systems after Windows 7. This clearly shows that users love using their Windows 10 PCs. In fact, even after the release of Windows 11, several users still use Windows 10 and decided to never upgrade, but with this news, they are confused and looking for answers to –
- Does this mean after October 2025, I will not be able to use Windows 10?
- What should I do if I don’t want to upgrade?
Fortunately, we have the answers. By the end of this post, you will have the answers to all your questions about Microsoft ending update support for Windows 10 in 2025.
End of Support for Windows 10: What Does it Mean
In simple words, the end of support for Windows 10 refers to the free features and security updates that Microsoft provides for its products. Released in 2015, Windows 10 can be considered a legacy operating system for Microsoft thanks to its cutting-edge features and design.
On Windows 10, you will no longer receive feature updates or the latest security patches. This means your PC will no longer be secure. However, you can continue using Windows 10.
The way this end of support will work is quite simple to understand if we break it down into the factors that matter. These factors include –
- Usability: Windows 10 will still be usable for users who do not want to upgrade. However, the security updates here will be a deal breaker for many.
- Features & Security: After October 14, 2025, Windows 10 will no longer offer feature upgrades. However, you can still subscribe to a payment plan to receive extended security updates.
- Hardware Support: If your current hardware supports Windows 10, you should not worry; it will keep working properly. Microsoft will still offer you a free Windows 11 upgrade.
- Privacy: If you are using a Windows operating system that has reached its end support stage, you should be concerned about device security as it is no longer available.
After identifying these factors, you might have understood what this Microsoft move holds for you. If you have not upgraded for business reasons (several businesses/companies are using Windows 10), you can opt for a paid security updates plan available for LTSC users.
Should You Upgrade to Windows 11? Honest Opinion!
Now that you know what End of Support means for Windows 10, you may wonder whether you should upgrade to Windows 11. The only answer to this question is that it completely depends on you! You see, Windows has left a clear option here for people who want to stick to Windows 10: paid security updates!
So, if you are an organization that has been working on Windows 10 for a while and has no plans to upgrade or move to a newer OS, opting for paid security updates seems a viable option. At the same time, if you are worried about your personal computer, you can also skip the upgrade, at least for now, as Windows has a great history of extending its support cycle as an “exception.”
The main idea is that moving from Windows 10 to 11 is not just an OS choice. For many users, it is also an upgrade in hardware. If you are one of those users who got their PCs back in 2015/16 with the latest Windows 10, the resources on your device may be overwhelmed with Windows 11 and might not handle them properly.
Hence, if you plan to upgrade, ensure you upgrade your device or at least the resources (like SSD, RAM, ROM, etc.) it uses. The Windows 11 minimum resource requirements are as follows –
- 1Ghz 64-bit dual-core processor
- 4GB RAM
- 64GB Drive (SSD Preferred)
- 1366×768 resolution
- UEFI, Secure Boot & TPM 2.0 compatible
- DirectX 12 compatible graphics / WWDM 2.x
If you have resources, there’s no point in sticking to an operating system that has reached its end of support. Upgrade to Windows 11 for free and enjoy the latest security and feature updates.
Read Also: Exploring Windows 11: 5 Common Problems & Fixes
What to Do When Microsoft Ends Support for Windows 10? Weighing Your Options!
Knowing that 14th October 2025 is the tentative last date for Windows 10 support, what options do you have as a user? Well, there are several things you can do. Let’s look at all the options available to you, just so you can identify the most viable option.
Option 1. Upgrade
The first option is to upgrade from Windows 10 to 11. However, as discussed previously, it is not that simple for every user, considering resource constraints. In that case, you will have to upgrade your machine, which will put a dent in your pocket, so make sure you are prepared for that if you upgrade.
Option 2. Pay for Security Updates
Another option is to pay for extended security updates just to be safe. The fee to extend security updates until 2026 is set at $30; however, you cannot determine whether the same price will continue for subsequent upgrades.
Option 3. Move
Another option you can consider is moving from Windows to a different operating system. If your machine has reached its end or is unable to upgrade to Windows 11, you are bound to change it. Hence, you always have the option to move from Windows to macOS or Linux. It depends completely on your usage and affordability. However, if you have been wanting to move but were stuck due to the limitations of the machine, this can be your chance!
Option 4. Stay Vigilant
Last but not least, if you find it difficult to upgrade your machine, you’ll have to be vigilant while using Windows 10 without security upgrades. We do not recommend it for a business PC however if it is your personal computer, you can try using Windows 10 without the security updates, provided you do not visit any harmful/unsecure websites. Being vigilant or using third-party programs like a Systweak VPN can help avoid unnecessary consequences. However, keep in mind that this option should only be used for a limited time until you can upgrade.
EOL Windows 10: The End or a New Beginning?
Choose what you plan to do accordingly. With Windows 10’s end of support approaching, confusion is bound to occur. This change is definitely going to be an end for many and a new beginning for several Windows users. It solely depends on your requirements and comfort.
With this post, we aim to ensure you know precisely what End of Support for Windows 10 means and your options. We will keep you updated with the latest developments in the process and ensure you make the correct choice. For further assistance or queries, please comment below, and we will reply soon!
Thanks for reading, good luck!
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