Windows 10 support ends in October: Here's what to do
17 Sep 2025

Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025.

After this date, users won't receive free security updates unless they pay for additional coverage or enroll in Microsoft's special programs.

The decision has drawn criticism from many who think it's unfair to charge money just to keep their current PCs safe, especially when these devices are still functioning well.

Paid extension option raises eyebrows
Paid extension

To ease the transition, Microsoft has introduced a paid extension option for regular users. For $30, you can get an additional year of security updates, extending coverage until October 2026.

This is the first time everyday consumers have been offered such a paid extension.

However, not everyone is on board with this move as it could force many to pay just to keep their old PCs secure.

Alternatives offered, but consumer groups want more
Alternatives introduced

Along with the paid extension, Microsoft has also introduced two alternatives.

You can either use the Windows Backup app to back up your data on OneDrive or redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points for another year of security support.

However, consumer groups like the Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) feel these options don't go far enough and are calling on Microsoft to take more responsibility in extending support or making Windows 11 compatible with older machines.

E-waste concerns are growing
E-waste concerns

The end of support for Windows 10 has raised major e-waste concerns. Millions of perfectly good PCs could end up in landfills, even though they run just fine, simply because Microsoft won't keep updating Windows 10.

Consumer Reports has written a letter to Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, urging the company to reconsider its decision and continue providing free support for Windows 10 machines.

A significant portion of the global population uses Windows 10
Cybersecurity risks

Consumer Reports has highlighted that the end of support could leave a large number of global PC users open to cyber threats.

The organization noted that nearly 46.2% of people around the world were still using Windows 10 as of August 2025.

Many of these devices can't be upgraded to Windows 11 due to strict hardware requirements, raising concerns about Microsoft's commitment toward its existing customer base.

What should you do?
Guidance

To ensure continued security and functionality after Windows 10 support ends on October 14, 2025, users are advised to upgrade to Windows 11 if their devices meet the system requirements.

For those who cannot upgrade immediately, Microsoft's Extended Security Updates (ESU) program offers critical security patches for an additional year for $30.

Alternatively, users with older hardware may consider switching to other operating systems, such as Linux or ChromeOS Flex, to maintain performance, security, and access to modern applications.