As of 14 October 2025, Microsoft has officially ended support for Windows 10, marking the conclusion of a decade-long run for the operating system. From this point onward, the company will no longer release security patches, technical support, or feature updates for Windows 10 devices.
Microsoft warned that while PCs running Windows 10 will continue to function, they will gradually become more exposed to viruses, malware, and online scams due to the absence of ongoing protection.
“Without regular updates, these systems are at higher risk from emerging cyber threats,” said Yusuf Mehdi, a Microsoft executive, in a recent blog post. “Upgrading to a supported version like Windows 11 is an essential step to stay secure and benefit from the latest innovations.”
Millions Still Using Windows 10
Recent data from StatCounter Global Stats indicates that more than 40% of Windows users worldwide are still using Windows 10. In the UK, consumer watchdogs estimate that around five million people continue to rely on the outdated operating system.
A new survey by Which? found that roughly a quarter of Windows 10 users plan to keep using it even after support has ended. Lisa Barber, the publication’s editor, warned that those who fail to upgrade could face serious risks.
“Our research shows that millions may not be ready for the transition,” Barber said. “Sticking with Windows 10 could make you far more vulnerable to hackers and scams.”
Potential Problems for Those Who Don’t Upgrade
Beyond cybersecurity threats, older devices may start to experience compatibility issues with software and hardware over time. Microsoft noted that applications designed for newer systems may lose functionality or stop working properly on Windows 10.
According to Mehdi, transitioning to Windows 11 is part of the “natural software lifecycle,” ensuring that new technologies and improvements can be rolled out effectively.
How to Check If You Can Upgrade
Microsoft has made the Windows 11 upgrade free, but your computer must meet certain hardware requirements to install it.
To see if your PC is compatible:
- Go to Start → Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update
- Select Check for updates
If your device cannot run Windows 11, there is an alternative option — the Windows 10 Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. This service provides critical security fixes to reduce the risk of malware and data breaches, though it does not include new features or general support.
Enrollment for the ESU program can be accessed through the same Windows Update settings menu. However, this extended protection is temporary, ending on 13 October 2026.
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