Microsoft’s shift away from Windows 10 has raised concerns among its user base, which still numbers in the millions globally. While many software developers have distanced themselves from this aging operating system, Mozilla has taken a different approach. The company recently announced its commitment to support Firefox on Windows 10 for the foreseeable future, a decision that brings a sigh of relief to its users.
Mozilla’s Commitment to Windows 10 Users
By continuing to provide security updates for Firefox, Mozilla is ensuring that Windows 10 users receive the same level of protection as those on Windows 11. This move fosters a more equitable environment in terms of security, as users on both platforms can benefit from the latest features and bug fixes.
If you remain on Windows 10, you will continue to get the same updates to Firefox you do today, with all of our latest feature improvements and bug fixes. This includes our commitment to resolve security vulnerabilities as rapidly as we can, sometimes in less than 24 hours, with special security updates. Windows 10 remains a primary platform for Firefox users. Unlike older versions of Windows like Windows 7 and 8, where Mozilla is only offering security updates to Firefox, Windows 10 will get the latest and greatest features and bug fixes just like users on Windows 11.
However, Mozilla also weighed in on the ongoing Windows 10 versus Windows 11 debate, urging users to consider an upgrade if their hardware allows. The company emphasized that while it will continue to deliver updates for Firefox on Windows 10, the overall security of the system relies heavily on ongoing updates from Microsoft.
While Mozilla will continue to deliver the latest updates to Firefox on Windows 10, security online also requires continued updates from Microsoft to Windows 10 itself, and to the many other software and devices that you use on your Windows 10 computer. That’s why we recommend upgrading to Windows 11 if your computer supports it. You can find out if your PC can run Windows 11 and upgrade to it for free from your Windows update settings. With this option, when you start up Windows 11 for the first time you’ll find that Firefox is still installed, and all of your data and settings are just like you left them.
For those whose computers cannot run Windows 11 or who choose to remain on Windows 10, Mozilla advises ensuring that they are receiving “extended security updates” from Microsoft. This step is crucial for maintaining a secure computing environment.
In its announcement, Mozilla highlighted the benefits of the Firefox sync feature, which simplifies the transition between devices and operating systems. This functionality is particularly useful for users contemplating an upgrade to Windows 11.
Meanwhile, you can also rest assured that if you continue to use Firefox on Windows 10 over the next few years, we’ll let you know through messages in Firefox if there is new information about staying secure and whether our stance regarding our support for Windows 10 needs to change.
With this clear communication and ongoing support, Mozilla is positioning itself as a reliable partner for users navigating the evolving landscape of operating systems and security needs.
