As the clock ticks down to October 14, 2025, the impending end of official support for Windows 10 is a topic of considerable interest. However, Microsoft has taken steps to soften the impact of this deadline, particularly concerning its suite of Microsoft 365 applications. Users can breathe a sigh of relief as these applications—including PowerPoint, Word, and Excel—will continue to receive security updates until October 10, 2028.
Clarification on Support and Updates
Despite earlier confusion stemming from a now-deleted blog post, Microsoft has clarified its stance. The post, which inaccurately suggested that Microsoft 365 Apps would cease support on Windows 10 after the 2025 deadline, was not an official announcement. A Microsoft spokesperson confirmed that the post was misleading and authored by a junior employee on a blog aimed at non-profit customers.
While Microsoft encourages users to transition to Windows 11—especially if they encounter issues with Office applications that cannot be replicated on the newer operating system—the company is also extending its support options. Previously available only to commercial clients and educational institutions, Extended Security Updates (ESU) are now accessible to individual consumers as well.
For those who remain loyal to Windows 10, there are several pathways to consider. A significant number of PC gamers, as recent Steam surveys indicate, still rely on this operating system. Options include purchasing ESU for continued security updates or exploring third-party security patches that could safeguard Windows 10 machines for an additional five years. Alternatively, for those looking to break away from Microsoft’s ecosystem, transitioning to Linux remains a viable option.
In a broader context, Microsoft’s recent announcement regarding the layoff of 7,000 employees adds another layer of complexity to the situation. As the company navigates these changes, its approach to security updates and user support will undoubtedly be closely monitored by both consumers and industry analysts alike.
