On Friday, Microsoft issued a timely reminder to its users that the support for Windows 10 will officially conclude in just 30 days, marking October 14 as a significant date for many. This announcement extends beyond the standard Windows 10 editions, as both Windows 10 2015 LTSB and Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSB 2015 will also reach their end of extended support on the same day.
As the retirement of Windows 10 approaches, Microsoft will cease to provide bug fixes or technical assistance for any issues related to security, stability, or usability. In a recent update from Redmond, it was noted that “on October 14, 2025, Windows 10, version 22H2 (Home, Pro, Enterprise, Education, and IoT Enterprise editions) will reach end of servicing.” The last monthly security update for these versions will be released in October 2025, after which devices operating on these versions will no longer receive crucial updates that safeguard against emerging security threats.
Upgrade Pathways and Options
For customers keen on maintaining the security of their Windows 10 devices, Microsoft strongly recommends upgrading to Windows 11 or transitioning to Windows 11 in the cloud via Windows 365. However, users who prefer to delay their migration to Windows 11 have the option to enroll in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. This program is priced at for home users and per device for enterprise customers for a one-year term. Notably, home users can enroll for free by utilizing Microsoft Rewards points or by enabling Windows Backup to sync their data to the cloud.
Additionally, Windows 10 Virtual Machines and devices accessing Windows 11 Cloud PCs through Windows 365 can also benefit from the ESU program at no extra cost, ensuring they continue to receive essential security updates without any additional steps.
Another alternative for businesses is to consider switching to Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) releases. These specialized Windows editions are tailored for specific devices, such as industrial or medical equipment, allowing them to receive updates well beyond October 2025. For example, Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 will reach its Mainstream End Date on January 12, 2027, while the IoT Enterprise edition will enjoy extended support. Meanwhile, Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2019 will have its Extended End Date two years later, on January 9, 2029.
For those seeking more information on the end-of-service dates for various Windows releases, Microsoft provides a Lifecycle Policy search tool and a comprehensive Windows Lifecycle FAQ page. A detailed list of all products retiring or reaching the end of support this year is also available for reference.
In a noteworthy shift in the market, data from Statcounter Global Stats reveals that Windows 11 has now overtaken Windows 10 in terms of installations, with over 53% of all Windows systems currently operating on Windows 11, compared to 42% on Windows 10. Furthermore, Steam’s Hardware & Software Survey from August 2025 indicates that 60.39% of gamers have made the switch to Windows 11, while 35.08% continue to use Windows 10.
