Microsoft will no longer provide regular free support for Windows 10, the operating system that is still in use on millions of machines worldwide, starting on Tuesday. According to September data, over 40% of Windows users are still using Windows 10, even after the release of Windows 11 in 2021.
What this means for users
The Guardian claims that free software updates, security patches, and technical support for Windows 10 will stop after October 14, 2025. Devices will still work, but without continuous care, they will become more susceptible to malware, viruses, and other online dangers.
Windows 11, the company’s more recent operating system, “meets the current demands for heightened security by default,” according to Microsoft.
The cybersecurity risk
According to the article, experts caution that sticking with Windows 10 could make consumers easy targets for hackers. According to consumer advocacy group Which?, over five million people in the UK alone intend to stick with the outdated system.
Lisa Barber, editor of Which? Tech magazine, stated that criminals will target individuals, take advantage of vulnerabilities, and attempt to steal your data.
How to stay safe
Upgrading to Windows 11 is the most straightforward method of computer protection. According to the source, the new system, which needs at least 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, and a TPM 2.0 security chip, is probably compatible with PCs under four years old.
Which? offers an online processor-based compatibility checker, whereas Microsoft offers a free utility.
Options for older computers
Users can choose to use Microsoft’s one-year extended security updates, which offer protection until October 13, 2026, for computers that are unable to satisfy Windows 11’s criteria. It costs $30 or 1,000 reward points to sign in without a Microsoft account, but it’s free to do so with one.
As an alternative, users might think about moving to a different operating system. A free and safe substitute, Linux comes in a variety of versions, such as Ubuntu, which is easy to use and receives frequent security upgrades. Using a USB drive and backing up files are necessary for installation; however, Canonical, Ubuntu’s developer, offers comprehensive instructions.
Users must update, purchase extended protection, or look into other operating systems once Windows 10 support ends in order to secure their devices from the increasing number of cyberthreats.