Windows 10 support “ends” today, but it’s just the first of many deaths

Today marks the official end of support for Microsoft's Windows 10 operating system. While this does not mean that your PC will cease to function, it signifies that regular security updates will no longer be provided, and technical support from Microsoft will also come to an end. This transition occurs nearly ten years after the initial launch of Windows 10, aligning with the typical lifecycle of Windows versions. Notably, this change comes just four years after the introduction of Windows 11, which has more stringent system requirements, leaving many older yet still operational PCs without an upgrade path. As reported by StatCounter, approximately 40% of Windows PCs globally—and about one-third of PCs in the U.S.—continue to run on Windows 10. However, there are options available for users who wish to extend their support. Home users can participate in Microsoft's Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which offers an additional year of security updates. Enrollment in this program is straightforward, provided you have a Microsoft account, and it comes at no cost. For IT administrators managing multiple Windows 10 systems, there’s the possibility of purchasing up to three years of ESUs. This extended support period is expected to coincide with updates for Microsoft Defender antivirus and core applications like Microsoft Edge. While Microsoft encourages users to upgrade to Windows 11, either on compatible devices or through new hardware, it remains feasible to install and run Windows 11 on unsupported PCs—though it may come with some challenges. Users can anticipate a generally satisfactory experience, despite potential difficulties during major updates, such as the upcoming Windows 11 25H2. For those newly transitioning to Windows 11, we will soon provide an updated guide aimed at optimizing the experience and minimizing the disruptive upsells that can accompany Microsoft’s latest operating system.