Microsoft wrongly tells supported Windows 10 PCs they’re out of support, nudges Windows 11

Microsoft has acknowledged a bug affecting some Windows 10 users, erroneously notifying them that their systems are “out of support.” This confusion arises from the fact that support for Windows 10 has not completely ceased for all users. In fact, individuals can continue to extend their Windows 10 support at no cost until October 13, 2026. Those utilizing Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC are already covered and do not need to purchase Extended Security Updates (ESU).

The misleading message, stating “Your version of Windows has reached the end of support,” appears even when the user’s PC remains fully supported. Microsoft confirmed in a statement that this notification may incorrectly display in the Windows Update Settings page.

This issue potentially impacts a broad spectrum of Windows 10 users, including those on the Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions with ESU enabled. Additionally, it affects users of Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 and IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021.

Image Courtesy: WindowsLatest.com / jeanvaljean

For instance, one user reported receiving the alert despite running Windows 10 21H2 IoT Enterprise LTSC, which is supported until at least 2027. The alert reads, “Your version of Windows has reached the end of support. Your device is no longer receiving security updates.” The notification persists unless the user opts to install Windows 11 version 25H2 or 24H2 LTSC. Interestingly, the option to enroll in ESU, which should appear if the PC is genuinely out of support, is missing, likely because the device is already part of the ESU program.

Windows Update continues to recommend upgrading to Windows 11 when the device meets the necessary requirements. In other scenarios, Microsoft suggests considering the recycling of the PC.

Will you still be getting Windows updates if Settings explicitly state that support has ended?

Yes, users will continue to receive updates if they are on Windows 10 LTSC or if their PC is linked to ESU. The incorrect display of the end-of-support alert does not affect the availability of future cumulative or security updates, particularly for those enrolled in Windows 10 ESU.

Microsoft has assured that new security updates, including those scheduled for the upcoming November 2025 Patch Tuesday, will still be provided to the following PCs:

  • Windows 10 Pro, Education, and Enterprise with ESU configured using an ESU product key
  • Enterprise LTSC 2021
  • IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021

According to Microsoft, “Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 and Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 remain in support and will continue to receive security updates according to their respective lifecycles.”

What to do if Windows shows “Your version of Windows has reached the end of support” error when it’s supported or signed up for ESU?

Microsoft has acknowledged the issue and is rolling out a server-side fix. To apply this patch, users should check for updates and restart their PCs. The false end-of-support alert is expected to disappear within 24 to 48 hours.

For those concerned about their Windows 10 PC’s support status, it is advisable to verify the installed version or edition by navigating to Settings > System > About, and comparing it against the lifecycle details provided below:

Edition / Product Version Mainstream end Extended end / ESU
Home / Pro / Pro Education / Pro for Workstations 22H2 October 14, 2025 October 14, 2026 (ESU Year 1)
Enterprise / Education / Enterprise multi-session 22H2 October 14, 2025 October 14, 2026 (ESU Year 1)
IoT Enterprise (non-LTSC) 22H2 October 14, 2025 Not eligible for ESU
Enterprise LTSC 2021 (21H2) January 12, 2027 (no extended phase for Enterprise 2021)
IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 (21H2) January 12, 2027 January 13, 2032

For IT administrators familiar with Group Policy Editor, Microsoft has also provided a rollback option for this issue. After downloading the KB5066791 251020_20401 Known Issue Rollback from Microsoft’s website, users can navigate to the Group Policy Editor and follow this path:

Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > KB5066791 251020_20401 Known Issue Rollback > Windows 10, version 20H2, 21H1, 21H2 and 22H2

By double-clicking the policy, users can configure it to patch this issue immediately. Microsoft has confirmed that the next Windows Update will address the false end-of-support alert bug. For the time being, users can safely disregard the erroneous notification and refrain from upgrading to Windows 11 unless they choose to do so.

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Microsoft wrongly tells supported Windows 10 PCs they’re out of support, nudges Windows 11