We’ve all heard the news: Microsoft is ending support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. This has led to a lot of mixed messages and confusion for users. Initially, Microsoft said there was no hope for a reprieve for Windows 10, but then they started selling extended support. What does this mean for your PC security?
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After the end-of-life date, your PC will become significantly less safe. Microsoft will stop providing regular security updates, which are crucial for protecting your computer from new threats and vulnerabilities. While the company will offer a paid Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for a year, it’s a decision that many users find confusing and frustrating.
🛠️ What About Your Other Software?
The uncertainty isn’t limited to the operating system. Microsoft also plans to stop adding new features to 365 Office apps running on Windows 10 in August 2026. This applies to Personal and Family 365 accounts. However, security updates will continue until October 2028. This U-turn was a response to user backlash, but it still means your software will become outdated.
📈 The Upgrade Pressure
I think this whole situation is a mix of pressure to upgrade and Microsoft’s attempt to soften the blow. It’s a blatant attempt to get users to move to Windows 11, and it’s working. Windows 11’s market share has overtaken Windows 10 for the first time since its launch.
🌍 The Environmental Impact of Upgrades
It’s not just about a security issue; it’s also an environmental one. Hundreds of millions of disused PCs could end up in a landfill. I believe we all have a responsibility to think about the environmental crisis caused by these forced upgrades. There are probably millions more Windows 10 PCs that haven’t been switched on for a long time, and they will all become electronic waste.
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.
Will It Be Safe to Use a Windows 10 Laptop with My TV? Computeractive – Issue 715, 30 July-12 August 2025.
The Problem with Windows 10. 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.
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