Windows 10 support Archives

Winsage

February 23, 2026

Don’t Buy a Refurbished or Used Windows 10 Computer

The author explored used and refurbished laptops for a testing lab, focusing on budget-friendly options, particularly those running Windows 10. Microsoft has ceased support for Windows 10, leaving users vulnerable to security risks compared to those using Windows 11. Many Windows 10 devices may not support an upgrade to Windows 11, making them less desirable despite their lower prices. Users are advised to consider the importance of security and check compatibility with Windows 11 before purchasing. Devices manufactured in the last five years are more likely to support the upgrade. Indicators that a computer may not support Windows 11 include being manufactured before 2019, having an older processor, running a version of Windows earlier than 10, or lacking support for Secure Boot, TPM, or UEFI. If a computer is kept offline, the operating system's importance is reduced, but this scenario is rare. The author recommends against purchasing Windows 10 devices, as refurbished Windows 11 models are only slightly more expensive and offer better security.

Winsage

January 30, 2026

Microsoft said my PC can’t run Windows 11, but I upgraded in 5 minutes anyway

Microsoft ceased support for Windows 10 in October 2022, prompting users to consider their next steps, especially those with PCs that do not meet the requirements for Windows 11. A desktop built in 2020 with an Intel Core i9-9900 CPU lacks a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0, which is necessary for Windows 11 eligibility. Microsoft encouraged users to invest in new hardware rather than upgrade existing systems. However, there are workarounds available for users with compatible machines. One method involves using the third-party program Rufus to install Windows 11, which requires an empty USB thumb drive with at least 8GB of storage. The installation process includes downloading Rufus, obtaining the Windows 11 ISO, and following specific steps to bypass TPM and other requirements.

Winsage

January 27, 2026

Windows 10’s extended support ends in eight month, but users are still rejecting Windows 11, at least in Germany

Windows 11's market presence in Germany is stagnant, with 48% of private households (approximately 21 million devices) still using Windows 10, which will lose official support on October 14, 2025. Users can opt for Extended Security Updates until October 13, 2026. As of August 2025, Windows 10 had around 24 million installations, while Windows 11 was on about 17 million devices, indicating only 3.6 to 3.7 million transitions to Windows 11. By December 2025, Windows 11 accounted for 66.60% of the gaming market on Steam, with approximately 71% of Windows machines used for gaming running Windows 11. Windows 10 users can extend their support, but as the October 2026 deadline approaches, they will no longer receive security updates. Microsoft may implement notifications to encourage users to upgrade to Windows 11 and consider recycling old PCs for new ones.

Winsage

January 26, 2026

Microsoft secretly working FREE updates for Windows 11

Microsoft is set to introduce new features for Windows 11, following the discontinuation of Windows 10 support. Two major updates are planned for 2026: Windows 11 Version 26H1, available only for new PCs with the Snapdragon X2 chip, and Version 26H2, which will be released to all users in the autumn. Key features include the integration of Copilot, Microsoft’s AI assistant, which can replace the standard search box on the Taskbar, allowing users to ask questions and search documents using natural language. The calendar flyout on the Taskbar will be updated to show upcoming events and reminders, syncing with the Outlook app. A new full-screen Xbox app will transform Windows PCs into Xbox consoles, optimizing for gamepad use. Microsoft is also exploring video-based wallpapers for the desktop, allowing continuous video playback. Additionally, Copilot will be integrated into File Explorer for enhanced productivity, enabling users to chat about files and generate document summaries.

Winsage

January 26, 2026

Windows 7 and Vista just made a shocking return in 2026 — but your PC might not survive the comeback

Windows 7 and Vista are set to make a comeback in 2026, with modder Bob Pony creating ready-to-install ISO files for both operating systems. The Windows 7 x86 ISO includes updates until October 2024 and requires a CPU that supports SSE2 instructions. Microsoft has a program called Premium Assurance that provides security updates for legacy systems like Windows Vista for up to six years. However, Microsoft has officially ceased support for both Windows 7 and Vista, raising security concerns for users. Running these operating systems in a virtual machine is suggested as a safer alternative. The renewed interest in older systems is partly due to dissatisfaction with Windows 11, which has faced issues like unbootable PCs and stringent hardware requirements.

Winsage

January 16, 2026

Still on Windows 10? 0patch may be your best defense in the ‘End of Support era’

In early 2023, Microsoft announced that official support for Windows 10 would end in 2025, with regular updates and security patches ceasing on October 14, 2025. Users have a little over two years to transition to Windows 11 or other operating systems. Some users have enrolled in Microsoft's Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which will also end in October 2026. A third-party service called 0patch offers ongoing protection for Windows 10 by providing micropatches for vulnerabilities. 0patch releases two to three micropatches each month, prioritizing vulnerabilities that are publicly known, actively exploited, and lack an official Microsoft fix. 0patch has a free version that provides critical zero-day patches and a paid Pro plan that includes legacy patches. The Pro plan costs €25 per year, while an Enterprise plan is available for €35 annually. 0patch plans to support Windows 10 until at least October 2030, depending on user demand. Users have reported some performance issues with 0patch, but the updates are lightweight and do not significantly affect system performance.

Winsage

January 4, 2026

Windows 11 Pro is down to $9.97 (if you’re still running Windows 10)

As of October 2025, Microsoft has ceased support for Windows 10, meaning users will no longer receive security updates or bug fixes. Windows 11 Pro is currently available for .97, reduced from .99, offering users an opportunity to upgrade without new hardware. The new operating system features a refined interface, enhanced voice typing, advanced desktop management, and robust security measures such as TPM 2.0 and biometric sign-in options. Windows 11 Pro also supports DirectX 12 Ultimate for improved gaming performance and includes features like BitLocker encryption and Windows Sandbox for professionals. Transitioning to Windows 11 Pro is essential for maintaining system integrity and security after the end of Windows 10 support.

Winsage

December 31, 2025

Windows 10 Users Can Still Get Free Security Updates. Here’s How

Microsoft will cease support for Windows 10 in 2025 but will offer an Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, providing an additional year of security updates until October 13, 2026. Users can enroll in the ESU program at a cost, but free enrollment options are available through syncing settings with OneDrive or redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points. Enrollment in the ESU program is open until October 13, 2026, and businesses can purchase up to three additional years of updates. Users must be on Windows 10 version 22H2 and have administrative privileges to enroll. The enrollment wizard is being rolled out gradually, and some users may not see the option immediately.

Winsage

December 31, 2025

Microsoft in 2025: year in review

In 2025, Microsoft faced challenges including a slow migration to Windows 11 after the end of Windows 10, with many users opting to stay on the older system due to free Extended Security Updates. The anticipated rush to Windows 11 did not occur, partly because many older PCs did not meet the new system requirements. Microsoft increased its focus on AI integration in Windows 11, but this initiative faced backlash from users concerned about unnecessary features and existing bugs. The annual upgrade brought only minor improvements, and persistent bugs continued to affect user experience, particularly for gamers, who faced disruptions amid rising competition from platforms like SteamOS. Additionally, a significant price increase for Xbox Game Pass led to subscriber cancellations, although revenue remained high. Xbox console sales dropped by 70% year-on-year, while the Surface hardware division did not achieve the same success as the previous year, with new devices failing to generate excitement.

Winsage

December 23, 2025

Has 2025 seen a successful refresh to Windows 11?

Windows 11 has a market share of 53.7%, while Windows 10 has 42.7%. Approximately 700 million devices are running Windows 11. Microsoft has urged users to upgrade from Windows 10, which officially ended support in October 2025, leaving users without updates or security patches. Users on Windows 10 may need to purchase an extended security package for protection until October 2026. Hardware compatibility issues, particularly with the Trusted Platform Module 2.0 requirement, may prevent some users from upgrading. The 25H2 update for Windows 11 introduced various enhancements but also created new issues. Windows 12's release is uncertain, with expectations for AI advancements, but details are speculative.