Windows 10 systems Archives

Winsage

November 10, 2025

Can’t sign up for Windows 10’s extended updates? Here’s why that might be – and what you can do about it

Users of Windows 10 are facing challenges with Microsoft's Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which is not functioning properly for some due to regional limitations and technical glitches. These issues prevent certain users from enrolling in the program, which is intended to provide critical security updates. Some users report that the ESU rollout is unavailable in their area, while others are blocked from signing up due to bugs misidentifying their Windows 10 PCs. While some have attempted to resolve these issues using the Media Creation Tool for an in-place upgrade, caution is advised, and backing up data is recommended. Users are also considering waiting for Microsoft to address these enrollment challenges, although the first security update under the ESU program is set to roll out soon, leaving those unable to enroll feeling vulnerable. A suggestion circulating on platforms like Reddit involves accessing the ESU enrollment via a specific link in Microsoft's end-of-support portal, which has reportedly helped some users bypass standard enrollment issues. However, many users express frustration as the October 14 End of Life deadline for Windows 10 approaches, and some may consider upgrading to Windows 11 if ESU issues persist. Additionally, even users who have successfully enrolled in the ESU program sometimes receive incorrect notifications indicating they are not supported.

Winsage

November 8, 2025

Still on Windows 10? Enroll in free ESU before next week’s Patch Tuesday

Users operating Windows 10 are encouraged to enroll in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program following the end of support for the operating system on October 14, 2025. The ESU program allows continued access to security updates for users unable to transition to Windows 11. To obtain extended security updates for an additional year, users can pay a fee, back up their Windows settings to their Microsoft account, or redeem 1,000 Microsoft reward points. In the European Economic Area, users can receive ESU for free by logging into Windows 10 with a Microsoft account or can opt to pay to continue using a local account. Enterprise customers can utilize the ESU program for a total of three years at a cumulative cost of per device. Users must be operating Windows 10, version 22H2 Home, Professional, Pro Education, or Workstations edition, and ensure all available updates are installed to qualify for ESU. Enrollment can be completed through the Windows Update settings. Microsoft frequently addresses security vulnerabilities, including a recent one tracked as CVE-2025-24990, which was exploited to gain administrative privileges on devices. Successful enrollment in the ESU program will provide updates until October 13, 2026. Organizations must acquire licenses through Microsoft Volume Licensing or Cloud Solution Provider partners, and each device must be activated with a unique ESU key. Windows 10 devices accessing Windows 365 Enterprise Cloud PCs can also benefit from free enrollment in the ESU program.

Tech Optimizer

November 5, 2025

Hackers Are Using Linux Malware to Invisibly Bypass Windows Security

Hackers are refining tactics to evade detection by EDR systems and antivirus software, with a notable strategy being the use of Linux malware to infiltrate Windows systems. Investigations by Bitdefender and CERT-GE revealed a campaign by the Russian hacker group Curly COMrades, which exploits the Hyper-V virtualization platform on Windows 10 to create covert access channels. They utilize Alpine Linux for lightweight virtual machines that are difficult to detect, requiring only 120 MB of disk space and 256 MB of RAM. The attackers maintain persistent access using tools like Resocks and Stunnel, starting their activities in early July 2024 by activating Hyper-V on compromised systems and deploying misleading virtual machines labeled “WSL.” They introduced custom malware, CurlyShell and CurlCat, for communication and remote access. This trend of using Linux malware against Windows systems is growing, as seen in recent Qilin ransomware attacks documented by Trend Micro.

Winsage

November 3, 2025

Experts issue warning on harmful side effect of Windows shutdown

Microsoft has ceased support for its Windows 10 operating system as of October, leading to an estimated 14.4 million computers in the UK becoming obsolete. The potential recoverable materials from these devices include gold valued at £1.6 billion, copper worth almost £100 million, and silver amounting to £33 million, totaling nearly £1.8 billion. Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates for Windows 10, but users are encouraged to upgrade to Windows 11 for enhanced security. Alternatives for obsolete machines include installing a new operating system like Linux or responsibly recycling old devices to recover valuable metals.

Winsage

October 31, 2025

AMD kills Windows 10 support in its latest Adrenalin update — Battlefield 6 picks up bug fixes and optimizations

On October 29, AMD released the Adrenalin software update version 25.10.2 for Radeon graphics, which includes support for games like Battlefield 6 and Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines 2, both using DirectX 12. The update supports AMD Ryzen AI 5 330's integrated Radeon 820M graphics, expands Vulkan support, and includes various bug fixes. It is compatible with Windows 10 and requires Windows 11 version 21H2 or later. The update limits new game support to AMD's Radeon RX 7000 and RX 9000 GPUs, dropping support for older RDNA 1 and RDNA 2 graphics cards. The update also introduces "Work Graphs" support for Radeon RX 9000 GPUs, enhancing GPU autonomy. Fixed issues include crashes in several games and stuttering with VR headsets, while known issues persist with Battlefield 6 and other titles. The driver is available for download from the AMD website.

Winsage

October 29, 2025

When the Patches Stop: Protecting Your (Windows 10) Environment with CDR

Microsoft has ceased providing free security updates for Windows 10 as of mid-October 2025, marking the end of support for the operating system. Organizations can purchase Extended Security Updates (ESUs) to extend support temporarily, but these do not protect against zero-day vulnerabilities. Transitioning to Windows 11 presents challenges, including hardware incompatibility and the need for extensive planning and validation in regulated industries like healthcare and finance. Many businesses rely on Windows 10 systems that are integral to their operations and cannot easily be replaced. Cybercriminals exploit unpatched systems, with approximately 70% of successful breaches stemming from zero-day attacks. Traditional defenses are ineffective against undisclosed vulnerabilities, and human behavior remains a significant risk factor. Votiro offers a proactive solution through Content Disarm and Reconstruction (CDR), which sanitizes files in real-time to eliminate malware before it reaches unpatched systems, providing a protective barrier for organizations still using Windows 10.

Winsage

October 25, 2025

Microsoft warns Windows 10 is a ransomware magnet — and 84% of our readers are still using it

Over 90% of ransomware attacks target unsupported PCs, highlighting the urgency for users still on Windows 10 to transition to Windows 11. A poll showed that 84% of Tom’s Guide readers are still using Windows 10. Unsupported systems are vulnerable to ransomware and malware attacks, which can compromise personal files and lead to identity theft. Microsoft no longer monitors older systems for vulnerabilities, leaving users unaware of potential breaches. The long-term costs of not upgrading can exceed the investment required for a system that supports Windows 11. To mitigate risks, users should implement antivirus solutions, use strong passwords, and regularly back up critical data.

Winsage

October 21, 2025

The ESU Gamble: Why Windows 10 Extended Security Updates Are a Risk You Can’t Afford

Many organizations are relying on Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for Microsoft’s Windows 10 as the end-of-life deadline approaches, but this solution is limited and does not protect against zero-day exploits or sophisticated attacks. The ESU program will end in October 2026, leading to increased costs and risks. Legacy systems like Windows 10 are particularly vulnerable to cybercriminals, and even with ESUs, they can be exploited by advanced threats. Transitioning to Windows 11 is complicated for many organizations due to compatibility and hardware issues. Morphisec offers a proactive solution with its Automated Moving Target Defense (AMTD) technology, which continuously alters system memory to protect against attacks without needing updates or patches. The cost of Morphisec is lower than potential expenses from ransomware incidents or ESUs. Organizations face significant risks if they delay action, as seen in past ransomware outbreaks like WannaCry. Unsupported systems can lead to compliance failures and reputational harm. Morphisec provides a way to secure Windows 10 systems while facilitating a smooth migration to Windows 11, ensuring protection across hybrid environments.

Winsage

October 19, 2025

Switch to Windows 11 and your PC will be TWICE as fast, Microsoft claims

Microsoft claims that laptops and desktop PCs running Windows 11 are "up to 2.3x faster than Windows 10 PCs," based on benchmarking data from Geekbench 6. Windows 10 will reach its end of support on October 14, leaving around 5 million users in the UK vulnerable to security risks. Microsoft offers a free upgrade to Windows 11 for users with a legitimate copy of Windows 10, although not all existing devices may support it. The upcoming Windows 11 Version 25H2 update will provide a smoother installation experience and introduce features like a redesigned Start menu and CPU throttling for better power management. Microsoft will offer free security updates to Windows 10 users who subscribe to OneDrive, while others will need to pay a one-time fee of £22 for updates. Some users report that Windows 10 may have better gaming performance, which could affect their decision to upgrade.

Winsage

October 19, 2025

Windows 10 PC can’t be upgraded? You have 5 options – and must act now

Windows 10 reached its end-of-support date on October 14, 2025, concluding monthly security updates for over 1 billion PCs. Users with incompatible devices cannot upgrade to Windows 11 via Windows Update and are advised to purchase new hardware. Microsoft will offer Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for Windows 10 on a subscription basis for three years post end-of-support, with costs varying for consumers, educational institutions, and businesses. Users can also consider buying new PCs, renting a virtual PC through Windows 365, upgrading incompatible hardware to Windows 11 using specific methods, switching to a Linux distribution or ChromeOS Flex, or continuing to use Windows 10 without support, which poses security risks.