A major deadline is looming for computer users worldwide. Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 on Tuesday, 14 October. After this date, PCs will no longer receive critical security updates, leaving them vulnerable to cyberattacks and malware. Without ongoing patches, older systems will face higher risks. Microsoft urges users to upgrade to Windows 11 for free, though many devices will not meet the hardware requirements. Nathan Proctor, senior director at US consumer group PIRG, warns that the change could impact both users and the environment.
Millions still depend on Windows 10
Windows remains the world’s most popular operating system. Microsoft reports it runs on more than 1.4 billion devices globally. Statcounter data shows around 43% of these devices were still running Windows 10 in July 2025. In the UK, consumer organisation Which? estimates that 21 million people continue to rely on Windows 10. A recent survey found that roughly a quarter of users plan to keep using the system even after official support ends, while about one in seven intend to buy a new computer.
Consumer advocates have criticised Microsoft’s decision, calling it costly and wasteful. “People are frustrated with devices that break or lose support too quickly,” said Proctor. “We deserve technology that lasts,” he added.
How users can protect their devices
Microsoft offers two main options for personal users. They can upgrade to Windows 11 or register for extended security updates (ESU) for one more year. Both options are available in the “Privacy and Security” section of settings. Users with compatible devices can upgrade for free. However, many will need to purchase new hardware, even if their current PCs still work well.
For those unable or unwilling to upgrade, Microsoft provides ESU, which delivers essential security patches until October 2026. ESU does not include technical support or feature updates. Users in the European Economic Area can register for free. Others can qualify by updating to the latest Windows 10 version, creating a Microsoft account, and backing up their device settings.
If users do not meet these conditions, they must pay $30 (£22) or use 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points to access ESU. Businesses using Windows 10 will pay $61 per device, depending on location.
What changes after support ends
Since its release in 2015, Windows 10 has received regular updates to improve security, fix bugs, and add features. Microsoft now encourages users to switch to Windows 11, but the new system has stricter hardware requirements. It also requires a Microsoft account for full functionality. Even extending Windows 10 through ESU requires one. Some users have expressed privacy concerns about this requirement.
Risks of remaining on Windows 10
Once support ends, Windows 10 computers will stop receiving critical security updates. This leaves them more vulnerable to viruses, ransomware, and other cyber threats. Without updates, system defences will weaken over time.
Recent cyberattacks have targeted major retailers, car manufacturers, and childcare providers. Microsoft’s Chief Marketing Officer, Yusuf Mehdi, warns that companies using unsupported software could face compliance and security issues. Developers may also stop supporting Windows 10, causing apps to lose features or compatibility.
For millions of users, the deadline is urgent. Upgrading ensures continued protection and functionality, while staying on Windows 10 increases risks every day.
