Microsoft ends free support for Windows 10: What users need to know

Starting Tuesday, Microsoft will cease its standard free support for Windows 10, an operating system that remains in use on millions of devices globally. Even with the introduction of Windows 11 in 2021, recent statistics show that approximately 40 percent of Windows users are still operating on Windows 10. Following October 14, 2025, Windows 10 will no longer receive free software updates, security patches, or technical support. While the devices will still function, users will be left increasingly exposed to viruses, malware, and various cyber threats due to the absence of ongoing support. Microsoft has underscored that its newer system, Windows 11, is designed to meet the current security demands by default. Experts are warning that sticking with Windows 10 could make users particularly vulnerable to hackers. According to consumer advocacy group Which?, around five million individuals in the UK alone are expected to continue using the older operating system. "Criminals are going to target people, exploit weaknesses, and aim to steal your data," cautioned Lisa Barber, editor of Which? Tech magazine. The most straightforward way for users to enhance their security is to upgrade to Windows 11. Most PCs that are less than four years old should support the new system, which requires at least 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, and a TPM 2.0 security chip. Microsoft offers a free tool to check compatibility, while Which? provides an online processor-based checker for users. For those whose machines cannot meet the requirements for Windows 11, Microsoft offers a one-year extended security update plan, protecting devices until October 13, 2026. Signing in with a Microsoft account is free, but users who opt out will incur a fee of $30 or 1,000 reward points. Alternatively, users can consider switching to another operating system. Linux presents a secure and free alternative, with various distributions available, including the user-friendly Ubuntu, which receives regular security updates. As support for Windows 10 concludes, users face a critical decision: upgrade, pay for extended protection, or transition to an alternative operating system to shield their devices from increasing cyber threats.