Microsoft is set to discontinue support for its Windows 10 operating system, effective October 14, which could leave many devices vulnerable. This means that security updates will cease, potentially exposing users to greater risks from malware and cyberattacks.
Approximately 1.4 billion devices worldwide use Windows, with around 43% running Windows 10 as of July 2025. In the UK, an estimated 21 million individuals may still be utilizing this version. A survey indicated that a quarter of these users intend to continue using Windows 10 post-support, while some plan to purchase new computers.
Microsoft is advising users to upgrade to Windows 11, which is available for free for compatible devices, but not all older machines will qualify for this upgrade. Alternatively, users can sign up for Extended Security Updates (ESU) to maintain critical security updates until October 2026; however, this does not include technical support or additional software updates.
To qualify for free ESU, users need to ensure that they have the latest version of Windows 10, possess a Microsoft account, and back up their settings. If these criteria are not met, a fee of $30 (£22) will apply, or 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points can be used for access. Commercial users face varying costs for continued support.
Concerns have been raised about the implications of ceasing Windows 10 support, especially regarding the environmental impact and costs associated with upgrading or purchasing new devices. Users may also experience challenges with software compatibility if developers stop supporting older versions. For businesses, maintaining compliance with regulations could become more complex due to unsupported software. As the date approaches, users may need to assess their options for continued safety and usability.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy0vzegkqweo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss