Microsoft announced that it will terminate Windows 10 support on October 14, 2025. This means that millions of users around the world will have to make an important decision: upgrade to Windows 11 or pay for extended security updates.
Who will be affected by the end of Windows 10?
According to Statcounter data released by the BBC, about 43% of Windows devices still used Windows 10 in July 2025. In the UK, Which? estimates that 21 million people still use the operating system.
A survey conducted in September showed that about 25% of these users plan to continue using the Windows 10 even after the end of official support. Only one in seven said he intends to buy a new computer.
What happens when the support is over?
As reported by the BBCMicrosoft will stop sending critical security updates and fixes to Windows 10. This makes the devices more vulnerable to cyber attacks and cyber problems. safety.
Nathan Proctor, senior director of the U.S. consumer group PIRG, called the situation "disaster for consumers and the environment". He criticizes the fact that many people will have to buy new devices even with your computers It's working perfectly.
Your options to keep the PC safe
Option 1: Update to Windows 11 (free)
Microsoft offers free upgrade to Windows 11, but not all computers can run the new system. You can check if your PC is compatible in the settings of "Privacy and Security.
Option 2: Extended Security Updates (ESU)
If your computer does not run Windows 11 or you do not want to update now, there is the Extended Security Updates program. It maintains the most important updates until October 2026.
How ESU works:
- Users of the European Economic Area: free through registration
- Other users: Free if you have the latest version of Windows 10, Microsoft account and backup of settings
- Otherwise: US rate$ 30 (about R)$ 150) or 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points
- Companies: US$ 61 per device
ESU limitations:
- Does not provide technical support
- Does not include other software updates
- Focus only on safety
Why is Microsoft doing this?
Windows 10 was released in 2015 and has received constant updates since then. The company wants to migrate all users to Windows 11, which has more modern features and more rigid security requirements.
One controversial change is that Windows 11 practically requires the use of a Microsoft account. Many users prefer not to use these accounts for privacy reasons.
The Environmental Impact of Change
Consumer protection groups are concerned about the electronic waste that can be generated. Millions of computers that work well can end up in trash simply because they can't run Windows 11.
"People are tired of living in a world full of short-lived devices that we can't fix," Proctor said. "We deserve technology that lasts. "
Risks of continuing with Windows 10
Using Windows 10 after October 2025 without ESU brings real risks:
- Uncorrected safety vulnerabilities
- Increased risk of malware attacks
- Possible compatibility problems with new software
- No fixes for critical bugs
How to Prepare for Change
If you use Windows 10, start preparing now:
- Check compatibility: Go on Settings > Update and Security to see if your PC runs Windows 11
- Back up: Always backup your important files before any update
- Evaluate your needs: If you use PC for basic tasks only, ESU may be sufficient
- Consider alternatives: If you do not want to pay or update, search alternative operating systems like Linux
Tips for Saving in Transition
If you need to buy a new PC, some Tips can help:
- Wait for seasonal promotions like Black Friday
- Consider computers reconditioned
- Evaluate if you really need all the features of Windows 11
- Compare prices between different retailers
What to expect from Windows 11
Windows 11 brings several improvements compared to Windows 10:
- Renewed visual interface
- Better integration with Microsoft Teams
- Improved productivity resources
- More robust security
- Best performance in Games
The transition from Windows 10 represents a significant change for millions of users. Whatever you choose – upgrade, pay for ESU or buy a new PC – the important thing is not to be unprotected after October 2025.
Start planning your transition now. Make sure your computer is compatible with Windows 11, make regular backups and consider all available options. The security of your data is worth more than any short-term economy.
