October 14th marks a significant milestone in computing history as Microsoft officially ends support for Windows 10 in 2025. With hundreds of millions of devices still running the decade-old operating system, users are facing critical decisions about their computing future.
What Actually Happens When Support Ends
The most pressing question on users’ minds is whether their computers will suddenly stop working. The answer is reassuring: Windows 10 will continue to function exactly as it does today[1][2]. Your applications, files, and settings will remain intact, and the operating system itself won’t shut down or become unusable.
However, Microsoft will immediately cease providing three critical services: technical support for any issues, software updates, and most importantly, security updates or fixes[2]. Whatever state Windows 10 is in on October 14th is exactly what it will remain from that point forward[1].
The Security Implications
The real concern lies in cybersecurity. Without continued security updates, Windows 10 machines become increasingly vulnerable to viruses, malware, and newly discovered exploits[2]. Hackers actively target unsupported operating systems because they know vulnerabilities will never be patched. This makes continuing to use Windows 10 after tomorrow a calculated risk that grows more dangerous with each passing month.
Extended Security Updates Program
For those not ready to move on, Microsoft is offering a lifeline through the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program[3]. This paid service allows individuals and organizations to continue receiving critical security patches beyond the official end-of-support date. While pricing and enrollment details vary, this option provides breathing room for users with specific compatibility requirements or hardware limitations.
Additionally, some users may be able to continue receiving security updates for free beyond October 2025 by syncing their PC with certain Microsoft services[4], though details on this program remain limited.
Microsoft 365 Gets Extended Support
In a notable exception, Microsoft is providing extended support for Microsoft 365 Apps running on Windows 10. While support officially ends tomorrow along with Windows 10 itself, Microsoft will continue providing security updates for Microsoft 365 applications for an additional three years, until October 10, 2028[2]. The company warns, however, that users may experience performance and reliability issues over time by continuing to use these applications on an unsupported operating system.
Non-subscription versions of Office face a harsher reality. Support for Office 2016 and Office 2019 ends tomorrow across all operating systems[2].
The Windows 11 Upgrade Path
Microsoft strongly recommends upgrading to Windows 11, which offers modern security features and continued support. The upgrade is free for Windows 10 devices running version 22H2 that meet the minimum hardware specifications[2]. Users can check their eligibility by navigating to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and selecting “Check for updates.”
For devices that don’t meet Windows 11’s requirements, Microsoft suggests either enrolling in the ESU program or purchasing new hardware that supports the latest operating system[2].
Making the Right Decision
As the deadline arrives, users face a straightforward choice: upgrade to Windows 11, enroll in Extended Security Updates, or accept the increasing security risks of running unsupported software. For most users with compatible hardware, upgrading to Windows 11 represents the safest and most cost-effective path forward. Those with incompatible hardware should seriously consider whether the ESU program’s cost outweighs simply purchasing a new device with modern security features built in.
Whatever path users choose, acting quickly is essential. Every day spent on an unsupported operating system increases exposure to security threats that will never be addressed.
Sources:
- What Happens at Windows 10 End of Support? - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H5eWPeVjQHs
- Windows 10 support ends on October 14, 2025 - Microsoft Support: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/windows-10-support-ends-on-october-14-2025-2ca8b313-1946-43d3-b55c-2b95b107f281
- Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10 - Microsoft Learn: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/whats-new/extended-security-updates
- Windows 10 updates being extended past October, 2025 - Technibble: https://www.technibble.com/forums/threads/windows-10-updates-being-extended-past-october-2025.92217/
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