Microsoft has recently expanded its support for a range of new Intel processors within the Windows 10 LTSC 2021 framework. For those considering a transition to LTSC, this move may prove advantageous, especially as the operating system is set to reach its end of support (EOS) on October 14, 2025. Users should note that Microsoft will charge for extended security updates (ESU) post-EOS.
End of Life Notifications
In the meantime, Microsoft has begun prominently displaying cautionary banners regarding the impending end of life (EOL) for Windows 10 across various sections of its official website. As Neowin observed, one such banner appears on a support article dedicated to creating Windows installation media.
This updated page now features distinct subsections for both Windows 11 and Windows 10, with the previous links to download Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 removed. The new banner under the Windows 10 section warns users of the EOS and encourages a transition to Windows 11. It states:
Support for Windows 10 will end in October 2025
After October 14, 2025, Microsoft will no longer provide free software updates from Windows Update, technical assistance, or security fixes for Windows 10. Your PC will still work, but we recommend moving to Windows 11.
This banner includes a “Learn more” link that directs users to a previously covered page with additional information.
Moreover, Microsoft has released another support document advising users to consider purchasing a new PC if they wish to upgrade to Windows 11 from older systems. A sponsored study highlighted within this document showcased impressive performance metrics favoring Windows 11 over its predecessor. In February, a new advertisement was also launched, promoting the benefits of upgrading to Windows 11.
In addition to the banner, the guide has undergone some revisions within the aforementioned subsections for Windows 11 and Windows 10. New steps detailing the use of the official Media Creation Tool (MCT) have been introduced, along with updated information regarding requirements such as product keys and virtual machines (VMs). Notably, some details concerning DVDs have been omitted.
Here’s a comparison of the previous and updated versions of the installation media requirements:
Previous Version:
- A USB flash drive, external hard drive, or DVD. A blank USB flash drive or external hard drive with at least 8 GB of space, or a blank DVD (and DVD burner). We recommend using a blank USB or blank DVD because any content on it will be deleted. When burning a DVD from an ISO file, if you’re told the disc image file is too large, you’ll need to use dual layer (DL) DVD media.
- A product key. Your 25-character product key (not required for digital licenses). For help finding it, go to Find your Windows product key.
Updated Version:
- A USB flash drive. A blank USB flash drive with at least 8 GB of space. It’s recommended to use a blank USB flash drive because any content on the drive is deleted. For VMs, a USB flash drive isn’t required. Instead, an ISO can be created for use in VMs. An ISO can also be used to create the installation media on a DVD.
- A product key. A 25-character product key might be needed (not required for digital licenses). For help with finding the product key, go to Find your Windows product key. Many modern devices contain the product key embedded in the firmware of the device. If the product key is embedded in the firmware of the device, the product key doesn’t need to be entered manually. Instead, if the product key in the firmware matches the version and edition of Windows being installed, the product key is automatically applied.
For further details, users can access the support article directly on Microsoft’s website.
