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Winsage
January 15, 2026
Microsoft concluded all support for Windows Vista and Server 2008 as of January 13, 2026. Most customers lost support in January 2020, but Extended Security Updates were available until January 2023 for most users and until January 2024 for Azure customers. Free security updates, non-security updates, and support options are no longer accessible for the retired codebase. Organizations are encouraged to migrate to Azure for additional security updates. Windows Server 2012 will also reach the end of its ESU on October 13, 2026.
Winsage
January 1, 2026
Microsoft will discontinue support for Windows 11 24H2 on October 4, 2026. Windows 11 23H2 Enterprise, Education, and IoT Enterprise support ends on November 10, 2026. Office 2021 support will conclude on October 13, 2026. Upgrading from Office 2021 to Office 2024 will require purchasing a new license. The following products will also lose support in 2026: .NET 9 (November 10), .NET 8 (November 10), PowerShell 7.4 (November 10), and Windows Server 2012/2012 R2 (October 13).
Winsage
December 23, 2025
The PC market is experiencing a significant shift in 2025 due to the end of support for Windows 10, which is set for October 5, 2025. Windows 11, launched in 2021, requires a TPM 2 for Secure Boot, limiting compatibility to newer devices. Microsoft is phasing out support for older devices due to security concerns, and while older peripherals may still work, they won't receive updates. Microsoft offers extended support options for Windows 10 users, including continued security updates for home users until October 2026 and an Extended Security Updates subscription for corporate users. The transition has led to increased interest in new PCs with neural processing units (NPU) for AI workloads, with support expanding to Intel and AMD systems. The integration of AI capabilities into PCs is being promoted, although current offerings may not incentivize IT departments to invest in NPU-enabled devices. The end of support for Windows 10 has influenced PC purchasing behaviors, resulting in increased shipments as manufacturers prepare for US tariffs. IT leaders must manage their device ecosystems carefully, as unsupported Windows 10 machines could become targets for cyber threats.
AppWizard
November 26, 2025
Android users are facing a threat from counterfeit VPN applications that disguise themselves as privacy-enhancing tools but contain malware capable of compromising personal information and security. These fake VPNs mimic reputable brands and use misleading advertisements to appear legitimate. Once installed, they can steal passwords, messages, and financial data, and may even lock devices with ransomware. Google advises users to download VPNs only from trusted sources, look for verification badges, review app permissions, be cautious of free offers, research developers, and avoid scare tactics in marketing. Legitimate VPNs should not request access to personal contacts or photos and should only require network-related permissions.
Winsage
October 16, 2025
The ongoing legal challenge against Microsoft seeks £2 billion in damages for alleged overcharging of businesses using its software on competing cloud platforms. The case was filed with the UK's Competition Appeal Tribunal (CAT) and highlights significant cost disparities when running Windows Server on rival clouds compared to Microsoft's own services. Dr. Maria Luisa Stasi is leading the initiative, which was officially filed in December 2024, following a 637-page report from the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) that found Microsoft's licensing policies disadvantage customers using services from competitors. Key findings from the CMA's investigation include significant price discrepancies, restrictions on product availability through AWS and Google, and limitations on transferring licenses to these platforms. The CAT hearing in December will determine if the case proceeds to trial. Microsoft is also facing additional legal challenges, including a complaint from Google regarding its licensing practices and a ruling from Austria's Data Protection Authority about illegal tracking of students. The CMA has recommended leveraging digital market powers to address these issues, but no official actions have been announced.
Winsage
October 8, 2025
Only half of Windows 10 users are considering an upgrade to a newer operating system, with about one quarter planning to stay on Windows 10 after support ends. Among those surveyed, 14% intend to upgrade to Windows 11, and 6% are considering switching to a different operating system. Microsoft is offering a year of free Extended Security Updates (ESU) to customers in the UK and Europe, but users must opt in by backing up their settings to OneDrive. The report also emphasizes the responsibility of UK retailers to help consumers safely dispose of old devices, aligning with the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment directive. Windows 10's market share has been declining since Windows 11's introduction, with Windows 11 expected to surpass Windows 10 in market presence by July 2025.
Winsage
October 2, 2025
An increasing number of Steam users have transitioned to Windows 11, with the percentage rising by 2.65% to 63.04% over the past month. Windows accounts for 95.40% of surveyed users, while Linux and MacOS have shares of 2.68% and 1.91%, respectively. The end of support for Windows 10 may accelerate this shift. Users face the choice of upgrading to Windows 11 or navigating extended support options for Windows 10. Factors affecting the upgrade include new features and hardware requirements, with some users utilizing tools like Rufus to bypass these requirements. Enhanced security measures may also compel users to consider upgrading.
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