Microsoft has made a significant announcement regarding the future of its Microsoft 365 applications on Windows 10. As the operating system approaches its End of Life in October, users have been concerned about the fate of their beloved productivity tools. Initially, Microsoft indicated that support for Microsoft 365 apps would cease alongside Windows 10’s support, which was set for October 14, 2025. However, a recent update to their support documentation reveals a more accommodating approach.
Microsoft 365 apps will receive security updates until 2028
According to the updated documentation, Microsoft will continue to provide security updates for Microsoft 365 apps on Windows 10 until October 10, 2028. This extension aims to assist users during their transition to Windows 11, allowing them to maintain security while they decide whether to upgrade. The company stated:
To help maintain security while you transition to Windows 11, Microsoft will continue providing security updates for Microsoft 365 Apps on Windows 10 for three years after Windows 10 reaches end of support.
Another support article echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of security during the upgrade process:
In the interest of maintaining your security while you upgrade to Windows 11, we will continue providing security updates for Microsoft 365 on Windows 10 for a total of three years after Windows 10 end of support, ending on October 10, 2028.
This shift in policy is noteworthy, as it allows users to continue utilizing Microsoft 365 applications without immediate concern for security vulnerabilities. Users will still be able to download these updates through the standard update channels, ensuring their applications remain secure.
However, it is essential to note that while Microsoft 365 apps will continue to function post-Windows 10 support, the company warns of potential performance and reliability issues when running these applications on an unsupported operating system. Thus, while users can breathe a sigh of relief regarding security updates, Microsoft remains steadfast in its encouragement for users to transition to Windows 11 sooner rather than later.