Microsoft to end free support for Windows 10 by October 2025
Microsoft has set October 14, 2025, as the official end date for Windows 10 support, signaling a major shift for users still relying on the popular operating system. After this date, Windows 10 will no longer receive free security patches, technical support, or updates through Windows Update. For those needing continued protection, Microsoft will offer Extended Security Updates (ESU), a paid service similar to what was previously made available for Windows 7, which provides essential security fixes but no new features or technical assistance.
So, what does this mean for everyday users and businesses? While your system will remain functional, Microsoft strongly recommends upgrading to Windows 11, especially the latest 24H2 release, which includes AI-enhanced features. Although the ESU program offers a temporary solution by maintaining critical security protection, it lacks ongoing feature updates or full customer support, making it a short-term option primarily for organizations that need more time to transition to Windows 11.
Windows 10 has long been a favorite among gamers, holding top spots in usage statistics on platforms like Steam. However, Windows 11 has recently overtaken it in popularity, partly due to its modern features and optimizations.
The company stopped supporting Windows 8.1 last year and ended support for Windows 7 back in 2020. As a result, various platforms, particularly in the gaming world, have already ceased supporting Windows 7, 8, and 8.1, and, likely, Windows 10 will soon face a similar fate. This signals a clear message: the future belongs to Windows 11, and users should prepare for the transition before 2025 arrives.
