Microsoft is officially ending support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, just 30 days from now. The nearly decade-old operating system, first launched in July 2015, will no longer receive security updates, new features, or technical support. Though if you have a PC running on Windows 10, it will keep running, but after 30 days, you will not get regular security patches, and it will become increasingly vulnerable to malware, viruses, and other cyber threats.
When it comes to businesses, the change could mean compliance risks if they continue using unsupported software. Applications on Windows 10 may also stop receiving updates or could experience reduced functionality as developers shift focus to newer platforms.
According to the company, Microsoft 365 Apps on Windows 10 will still get security updates until October 10, 2028, and feature updates through August 2026, but that doesn’t include full technical support. Similarly, Microsoft Defender Antivirus will continue to get Security Intelligence Updates until 2028 to give users more time to upgrade.
In order to transition safely, Microsoft recommends checking if your PC can run Windows 11 via Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update or the PC Health Check app. Using Windows Backup can help migrate your files, settings, and apps for a smoother upgrade.
Apart from that, if you are someone who can not switch immediately, Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) program will offer a temporary safety net. Starting October 15, individuals can enroll for one year of critical security updates through three options:
- Use Windows Backup for free.
- Redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points for free.
- Pay $30 USD (local pricing may vary).
Organizations can subscribe to ESU at $61 per device for the first year, with prices increasing annually for up to three years. Cloud-based Windows 365 and virtual machine users will get ESU coverage at no extra cost.
