Microsoft is ending support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. But what if I told you there’s a way to get free security updates for a year? It’s true! Microsoft announced a program offering free security updates for 12 months if you activate Windows Backup. However, this is seen by many as a “blatant trick” to push users into using their OneDrive storage.
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This is just one of several recent U-turns by Microsoft to soften the blow of scrapping Windows 10 support. They also announced Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for home users for the first time. This paid program costs around $30 (about £23) for one year and provides critical and important security updates.
⚠️ Why Is Microsoft Doing This?
Many people are getting fed up with these changing messages. First, we were told there was no hope for a reprieve for Windows 10, then came the paid support, and now this free option tied to their backup service. It seems like a clear effort to coerce users into upgrading or paying for other Microsoft services. But I believe it’s backfiring, as it’s making more people consider alternative operating systems.
Even Google is taking notice of the Windows 10 situation. Google has started checking whether PCs are compatible with Windows 11 to decide how long to support Chrome on Windows 10. With millions still on Windows 10, it’s unlikely Google will scrap support anytime soon. This just goes to show how much pressure companies are under to get us to upgrade.
🛠️ What About Your Office Software?
It’s not just the operating system that’s a concern. Microsoft will stop adding new features to Office 365 apps on Windows 10 in August 2026. However, they’ve extended security updates for these apps until October 2028. This is another U-turn that shows Microsoft is trying to keep users happy while still pushing for the upgrade to Windows 11.
Microsoft to stop adding new 365 tools for Windows 10 in 2026. Computeractive – Issue 715, 30 July-12 August 2025.
Microsoft extending Windows 10 support is a ‘blatant trick’. Computeractive – Issue 715, 30 July-12 August 2025.
Chrome now checks whether your PC can run Windows 11. Computeractive – Issue 715, 30 July-12 August 2025.
Will It Be Safe to Use a Windows 10 Laptop with My TV? Computeractive – Issue 715, 30 July-12 August 2025.
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