Microsoft is navigating a challenging transition period as it bids farewell to Windows 10, a platform that has served millions for years. The recent shift has been marked by a series of hiccups with Windows 11, including emergency updates and subsequent warnings to Windows 10 users about potential vulnerabilities. While many of these alerts were unfounded, a genuine concern looms over the heads of millions of users who now have a mere 48 hours to take action.
Impending Changes and Security Updates
As the end-of-life date for Windows 10 approaches on October 14, users have been inundated with countdowns urging them to update their systems before the deadline. However, the reality is that this deadline may not be as critical as it seems. Users of Windows 10 remain eligible for the security fixes scheduled for release in October, which are the last general updates available for the operating system. This means that, for now, their systems are still protected.
However, this protection is set to change next week. Patch Tuesday is expected to introduce a new wave of security fixes for Windows 10, but only for those who have enrolled in Microsoft’s free Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. Current data indicates that approximately 40% of the Windows user base—around 560 million individuals—are still operating on Windows 10, a retired system that raises significant security concerns.
Microsoft has clarified that users can enroll in the ESU program at any time before it expires on October 13, 2026. Once enrolled, users will receive cumulative updates to maintain their security, and these updates are essentially free of charge.
Windows 10 Vs Windows 11
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Failing to enroll in time for next week’s updates could leave devices vulnerable to viruses and malware, as Microsoft has warned. While the specific vulnerabilities that will be addressed remain undisclosed, the historical context of Windows security issues should give users pause before continuing to operate unsupported systems.
The ESU program is accessible for free to those with a fully licensed Windows 10 PC and a Microsoft Account, which users must log into regularly. Additionally, saving PC settings to OneDrive is necessary. For those seeking a more straightforward path, the ESU can be purchased for plus taxes. Users in the EU may find the process slightly more streamlined.
To enroll in the ESU, users can navigate to the Windows Update settings. If the licensed Windows 10 PC meets the necessary hardware requirements, it may also qualify for an upgrade to Windows 11, which offers enhanced security compared to relying solely on the ESU. It’s important to view the ESU as a temporary measure for security maintenance rather than a long-term solution.
As the deadline approaches, it is highly advisable for users to ensure they are enrolled in the ESU program at a minimum. For enterprise users, alternative options exist that may be more costly but offer longer-term solutions tailored to their needs.
