The impending end of Windows 10 has been a topic of discussion for quite some time, with the official cutoff date set for October 14, 2025. On this date, users will no longer receive technical support, new features, or essential security patches—elements that are crucial for the smooth operation of any operating system. Despite some users’ hesitations regarding aesthetics and performance, the transition to Windows 11 is becoming increasingly necessary, with many users showing a willingness to make the switch.
Recent estimates from StatCounter indicate a notable shift in user preference, as Windows 10’s global desktop market share has dropped from nearly 70% to approximately 53% over the past year. This trend suggests that Windows 11 is poised to surpass its predecessor’s user base for the first time since its launch in October 2021.
Moving the goalposts on Windows 10’s end-of-support
Initially, Microsoft announced that both Windows 10 and its Microsoft 365 applications would lose support simultaneously on October 14, 2025. However, a recent update on the Tech Community blog reveals a change in this plan. Microsoft 365 apps, including Teams, Outlook, Word, Excel, and OneDrive, will continue to receive security updates until October 2028. This adjustment marks a departure from a previous announcement made in January, indicating a more lenient approach towards Windows 10’s support timeline.
While this shift raises questions about the potential for a similar extension of Windows 10’s end-of-support date, it seems unlikely. The change appears to be more closely related to the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which offers a gradual transition rather than an abrupt cutoff as the deadline approaches.
(Image credit: Microsoft)
The ESU program is an optional, paid service designed to provide essential security patches for both home and business users after the official end of support for Windows 10. Home users can secure an additional year of extended security for a modest fee of , while businesses face a tiered pricing structure starting at per device, escalating to 2 and then 4 in subsequent years.
While the news of continued support for Microsoft 365 apps is encouraging, it does not alter the inevitability of transitioning to Windows 11. This upgrade may entail significant hardware costs, especially given the rising prices driven by tariffs on machines that do not meet Microsoft’s updated minimum specifications.
What’s next
For Windows 10 users, this unexpected extension of support offers a temporary reprieve, yet it comes with a price tag. The recent announcement regarding Microsoft 365 app security updates provides a welcome cushion, but it cannot stave off the eventual need to upgrade to Windows 11. Users may also consider alternatives, such as switching to macOS or exploring Linux options, as they weigh their choices in light of the impending changes.
Alternatively, some may choose to cling to their aging hardware, hoping to outrun the obsolescence of Windows 10. However, this path could lead to significant risks, including exposure to security vulnerabilities and potential data breaches. Ultimately, the decision lies with users as they navigate the shifting landscape of operating systems and consider their next steps.
