On October 14, 2025, Microsoft officially stopped supporting Windows 10. This was the end of an era for one of the most popular operating systems in the world. Despite the transition to Windows 11 over four years ago, approximately 40-43% of Windows users worldwide continue running Windows 10. This represents hundreds of millions of devices globally.
A lot of users still rely on the old system
More than 1.4 billion devices around the world run Windows 10, which came out in July 2015. About 21 million people in the UK still use the operating system. A survey from September 2025 found that about 25% of Windows 10 users plan to keep using the system even after official support ends. One in seven people said they would buy new computers.
What “End of Support” Really Means
The cessation of support does not mean Windows 10 computers will stop functioning immediately. Users can still get to their files, apps, and features like they always have. Microsoft will no longer offer free security updates, bug fixes, or technical help for the operating system, though.
The critical concern lies in security vulnerabilities. Windows 10 devices are more likely to be hacked. They may have malware installed and their data stolen over time if they don’t get regular patches to protect against new threats. Software developers and hardware manufacturers are also expected to gradually drop support for Windows 10. They will shift focus to Windows 11 and future versions.
Security experts are sounding urgent alarms
Cybersecurity professionals have issued stark warnings about the risks of continuing to use unsupported systems. Matt Balderstone, a cybersecurity advisor at CyberArk, stressed the “urgent” need to upgrade. He warned that systems that aren’t patched could become vulnerable to attacks like the 2017 WannaCry ransomware attack that brought the NHS to its knees.
“Once Windows 10 reaches end-of-life, the absence of security updates will leave millions of machines exposed to future vulnerabilities that will never be patched. This creates the prime conditions for attackers to exploit legacy systems,” Balderstone stated. Security expert Luis Corrons from Avast noted that attackers specifically target unpatched systems. Users may encounter fake pop-ups, fraudulent upgrade offers, or scam phone calls pretending to be from Microsoft.
Effects on the Environment and Consumers
Consumer advocacy groups have expressed concerns about the environmental implications. Nathan Proctor, a senior director at the US consumer advocacy group PIRG, said, “Ending support for Windows 10 is likely to be bad for people and the environment.” Millions of people may have to buy new hardware when support ends, which could add to electronic waste.
Upgrade Options and Requirements
Microsoft is offering a free upgrade path to Windows 11 for eligible devices. However, not all machines meet the stringent system requirements, which include:
- Compatible architecture with a 1 GHz or faster processor
- At least 4GB of RAM – At least 64GB of free space
- DirectX 12-compatible graphics card
- Support for Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0
- UEFI firmware that can use Secure Boot
- Display in HD (at least 720p) at least 9 inches and 8 bits per color channel. The Extended Security Updates Program is an option. Microsoft started the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for users who can’t or don’t want to upgrade right away.
- This program gives people who are still using the old operating system important security updates. These updates are defined by the Microsoft Security Response Center. While the ESU program offers temporary relief, it represents only a stopgap measure rather than a permanent solution.
- Important Next Steps for Users: Security experts strongly recommend that all Windows 10 users create complete backups of their data. Whether upgrading to Windows 11 or continuing with the unsupported system, users should be especially careful. This includes being cautious about emails, phone calls, and pop-up messages that seem to offer help with upgrades.
- The end of Windows 10 support is a big deal in the history of computers. It affects hundreds of millions of people around the world who now have to choose. They can upgrade their systems, buy new hardware, or take on more security risks by using an unsupported operating system.
