end-of-support Archives

Winsage

August 22, 2025

Ditching Windows 10 is the only route for people who want privacy

Users of Windows 10 face a decision as the end-of-support date approaches, with options to continue using Windows 10, upgrade to Windows 11, or switch to alternative operating systems. Remaining on Windows 10 without support is not viable due to security risks, especially for online devices. Opting for extended support may compromise privacy, as it often requires a Microsoft account. The Windows 10 LTSC edition offers longer support but may lead to compatibility issues with third-party applications. Transitioning to alternative operating systems, like Fedora KDE, may provide smoother experiences for users.

Winsage

August 21, 2025

Windows 10 Support Ends Soon. Here Are Your Best Options if You Can’t Upgrade

Microsoft will end official support for Windows 10 on October 14, meaning users will no longer receive bug fixes, technical support, or security updates. Extended security updates (ESU) will be available for a fee, primarily aimed at businesses and educational institutions, with a consumer version available for one year. Users can also consider alternative operating systems like Linux or ChromeOS Flex. Microsoft suggests cloud solutions like Windows 365 or Azure Virtual Desktop for those unable to upgrade their devices. Some users are opting for third-party security software, such as the 0patch agent, to address security risks associated with using Windows 10 post-support. There are methods to bypass Windows 11 upgrade compatibility checks using tools like Rufus or Registry Editor modifications.

Winsage

August 17, 2025

Microsoft issues Windows 10 death countdown reminder

Microsoft has announced that Windows 10, version 22H2 will reach end of servicing on October 14, 2025, marking the last availability of monthly security updates for these versions. Users have less than two months to prepare for the cessation of updates unless they opt for the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. Additionally, Windows 11, version 22H2 will also reach end of servicing on the same date, with the October 2025 monthly security update being the last for that version as well.

Winsage

August 15, 2025

Microsoft reminds of Windows 10 support ending in two months

Microsoft has announced that all editions of Windows 10, version 22H2 will reach end of servicing on October 14, 2025. On this date, Windows 10 2015 LTSB and Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSB 2015 will also conclude their extended support, and Microsoft will stop providing bug fixes or technical assistance for these versions. The final security update for Windows 10, version 22H2 will be released in October 2025. Users are encouraged to upgrade to Windows 11 or migrate to Windows 11 in the cloud via Windows 365 to maintain security updates. The Extended Security Updates (ESU) program is available for those who wish to delay transitioning to Windows 11. Windows 10 devices connected to Windows 11 Cloud PCs can benefit from ESU at no extra charge. Specialized devices can switch to Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) releases, which will continue to receive updates beyond October 2025. Windows 11 has surpassed Windows 10 in install base, with over 53% of systems running Windows 11 compared to 42% on Windows 10. As of July 2025, 59.9% of gamers are using Windows 11, while 35.1% are on Windows 10. Microsoft provides resources for users to check end-of-service dates for various Windows releases.

Winsage

August 3, 2025

Microsoft Windows: Everything you need to know

Windows is the dominant operating system globally, developed by Microsoft, and serves over a billion users. The latest version is Windows 11, which debuted in October 2021, featuring significant visual and functional enhancements. Microsoft began rolling out the 24H2 update in mid-2024, introducing AI hardware support, enhanced security, and new features like Copilot and Recall. The upcoming 25H2 update is expected in late 2025, utilizing a lightweight enablement package for a swift upgrade process. Development on Windows 12, codenamed Hudson Valley, is ongoing, with a potential release in late 2026 or early 2027, focusing on AI-first computing and modular architecture. Users can check their current Windows version by pressing the Windows key + R and typing winver. Upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 is free for eligible systems, while Windows 11 Home costs 9 and Windows 11 Pro costs 9. The end-of-support date for Windows 10 is October 14, 2025, making an upgrade advisable for continued security and access to new features.

Winsage

August 1, 2025

Windows 10: Six essential steps IT teams should take over the next two months

Businesses are facing a deadline for Windows 10's end-of-support in October, prompting a shift to Windows 11, which currently holds a 54.7% market share compared to Windows 10's 43.8%. Over 40% of Windows desktops are nearing their end of life, exposing organizations to operational and compliance risks. The migration to Windows 11 involves challenges, and organizations are advised to follow six steps: 1. Conduct a comprehensive audit of devices using Windows 10. 2. Secure necessary funding for the transition. 3. Recognize that smaller organizations may adapt more quickly than larger ones. 4. Communicate the importance of the transition to all levels of the organization. 5. Develop a structured plan that includes testing and user feedback. 6. Implement the migration process by the deadline, ensuring proper onboarding and training for employees.

Winsage

August 1, 2025

Nvidia confirms end of Game Ready driver support for Maxwell and Pascal GPUs — affected products will get optimized drivers through October 2025

Nvidia will cease new Game Ready driver development for Maxwell, Pascal, and Volta-based GPUs after a final driver release in October 2025. These GPUs will receive quarterly security updates until October 2028. The GTX 10-series, particularly the GTX 1080 Ti, remains popular in the gaming market, while GTX 9-series cards are becoming rare. Ray-tracing technology is increasingly required in new games, but Pascal and earlier GPUs cannot utilize DLSS effectively. However, Pascal users can use Intel's XeSS DP4a model for AI-powered upscaling in compatible titles. Nvidia will provide Game Ready drivers for supported cards on Windows 10 until October 2026, despite Microsoft's end-of-support for the OS on October 14.

Winsage

July 28, 2025

UpDownTool lets you move from Windows 11 to Windows 10 in just 5 clicks – without losing any data

A new application called UpDownTool allows users to revert from Windows 11 to Windows 10 without losing programs, files, drivers, or settings. Many users are dissatisfied with Windows 11 due to sluggish performance, a less intuitive interface, increased system requirements, and the removal of familiar features. Microsoft has limited options for downgrading, typically allowing a 10-day rollback period or requiring a clean install. UpDownTool simplifies the process by enabling users to transition to Windows 10 LTSC 2021 while preserving core data and configurations. Windows 10 LTSC 2021 is designed for long-term deployment and receives extended updates, with support for the IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 edition lasting until January 2032. The LTSC edition does not include preinstalled applications like the Microsoft Store and Cortana, making it appealing for users seeking a minimalist experience. UpDownTool can also repair existing Windows 10 LTSC installations or convert other editions to LTSC. Users must be cautious of licensing implications, as LTSC licenses are typically not available through consumer channels. The downgrade process involves downloading the installer and executing a batch script, with the system booting into Windows 10 LTSC 2021 upon completion. Users are advised to back up important files before proceeding.

Winsage

July 27, 2025

PSA: Some other versions of Windows are losing support on October 14 too

Windows 10 will reach its end of support on October 14, 2025. Windows 11, version 22H2 (Enterprise, Education, IoT) will also end support on October 14, 2025. The Home and Pro editions of Windows 11, version 22H2 reached their end of support on October 8, 2024. Windows 11, version 23H2 will have support until November 10, 2026, and version 24H2 until October 12, 2027. Windows 11, version 22H2 was released on September 20, 2022.

Winsage

July 24, 2025

Microsoft Unveils PC-to-PC Migration Tool for Local Transfers as Windows 10 Support Ends in 2025

Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 in October 2025, prompting users to consider upgrading to Windows 11 or purchasing new devices. To address concerns about cloud dependency, Microsoft has introduced a PC-to-PC migration tool that allows users to transfer files, settings, and applications directly from a Windows 10 machine to a Windows 11 device over a local network, without using OneDrive. This tool requires both PCs to be on the same Wi-Fi network and powered on simultaneously. However, it necessitates a Microsoft account for authentication and lacks full support for Arm-based devices. The introduction of this tool appears to be a strategic response to competition and user demand for alternatives to cloud-based solutions.