Microsoft has long signaled the impending end of support for Windows 10, with the final date set for October 14, 2025. Now that this date has passed, millions of PCs find themselves at a crossroads, teetering on the edge of a security abyss. While some users may continue to receive updates for a limited time, Microsoft strongly advocates for an upgrade to Windows 11 or, ideally, the acquisition of a new device equipped with the latest operating system. However, compatibility issues abound, and not every budget can accommodate the transition to new hardware. This raises critical questions: How long can users safely operate on Windows 10, what risks are involved, and can robust security software serve as a viable interim solution?
Windows 10 Didn’t Break Overnight—But Its Safety Net Did
As many users have observed, Windows 10 machines did not simply cease functioning on October 14, 2025. The absence of immediate, visible consequences can create a false sense of security. However, the implications of the end of support are significant.
Should a Windows 10 user encounter a technical issue and seek assistance from Microsoft, they will quickly discover that support has been withdrawn. Additionally, attempting to run Windows Update will yield a stark warning: “Your device is no longer receiving security updates.” In essence, the cessation of support means no further updates, including crucial security patches. Users are now navigating this landscape alone.
Is Staying on Windows 10 Risky?
For many, Windows Update has been a source of annoyance, often arriving at the most inconvenient times. While some updates enhance functionality, others are vital for patching security vulnerabilities. With Microsoft halting updates for Windows 10, any newly discovered security flaws will remain unaddressed unless they pose an immediate threat that compels Microsoft to act.
This situation creates a precarious balance in the ongoing battle between malware developers and antivirus solutions. As one side eases its efforts, the other gains the upper hand. Over time, users may also find that new software is increasingly incompatible with Windows 10. Many applications and devices require updated drivers, and users might find themselves unable to utilize new hardware, such as 3D printers, due to a lack of support for their operating system. High-end applications like Visual Studio and the latest Microsoft Teams already mandate Windows 11, leaving users with limited options.
Extended Security Updates: Windows 10’s Last Lifeline
Upon closer inspection of the Windows Update interface, an apparent contradiction emerges. Despite the warning regarding the cessation of security updates, users may notice an option for an update to Microsoft Defender Antivirus, which will continue to receive updates through October 2028. Furthermore, Microsoft has introduced the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10, extending support for another year until October 13, 2026.
To qualify for the ESU, users must meet specific criteria: only consumer editions of Windows are eligible, and the system must be fully updated. The Windows account used for enrollment must possess Administrator privileges, and Windows Backup must be enabled to sync essential data. Alternatively, users can utilize Microsoft Rewards points to access ESU without the backup requirement, or pay a one-time fee of for access.
It’s important to note that Microsoft offers a separate ESU plan for businesses, charging per PC, which is more than double the consumer rate. Additionally, businesses can extend their ESU protection for subsequent years, albeit at increasing costs, while consumers are limited to just one additional year of support.
How to Protect a Windows 10 PC After Microsoft Walks Away
According to StatCounter, Windows 11 installations surpassed those of Windows 10 in June 2025, with current figures indicating that Windows 11 now holds a 53.7% share compared to Windows 10’s 42.7%. This statistic highlights the substantial number of PCs still operating on the older system. For those whose devices are incompatible with Windows 11 or who prefer not to upgrade, continuing with Windows 10 is feasible, albeit with caution.
Enrolling in the extended updates does not reinvigorate Windows 10; it merely provides security updates without additional fixes or enhancements. Users must remain vigilant, ensuring that third-party security solutions are actively protecting their systems in the absence of Microsoft’s built-in security measures. Installing a reliable antivirus program and keeping it updated is paramount. Regular checks to confirm the antivirus is functioning correctly can help mitigate risks.
Moreover, upgrading from a basic antivirus to a comprehensive security suite can offer enhanced protection, including a firewall designed to guard against exploits targeting system vulnerabilities. Given that security patches are no longer available, this feature can significantly bolster user defenses. Utilizing a VPN can also add an extra layer of security by creating a barrier between the user and potentially harmful websites. Ultimately, while Microsoft withdraws its security support for Windows 10, users have the power to take proactive measures to safeguard their systems.
