Change is on the horizon for millions of Windows users as Microsoft prepares to discontinue support for its Windows 10 operating system. Effective Wednesday, October 14, 2025, devices running this version will no longer receive security updates, leaving them potentially exposed to various cyber threats. In light of this transition, Microsoft is urging users to upgrade to Windows 11 at no cost, although not all devices will meet the necessary requirements for this upgrade.
“The end of support for Windows 10 is shaping up to be a disaster for both consumers and the environment,” remarked Nathan Proctor, senior director at the US consumer group PIRG. This sentiment resonates with many as they navigate the implications of this significant change.
Who is affected?
Windows remains the dominant operating system globally, with Microsoft reporting over 1.4 billion devices in use. As of July 2025, approximately 43% of these were still operating on Windows 10, according to Statcounter. In the UK alone, consumer guide Which? estimates that around 21 million individuals continue to rely on this version. A recent survey revealed that about a quarter of these users intend to persist with Windows 10 even after official support ceases, while one in seven are considering purchasing new devices.
Consumer advocacy groups have voiced concerns regarding the potential for increased spending and environmental waste stemming from this transition. Proctor highlighted the frustration many feel about a landscape filled with short-lived devices that lack repairability or software support. “We deserve tech that lasts,” he emphasized.
What do I need to do?
For personal users, Microsoft presents two primary options: upgrade to Windows 11 or enroll in a program for extended security updates for an additional 12 months. These options can be accessed through the “Privacy and Security” section in device settings. Users with eligible PCs can upgrade to Windows 11 at no charge. However, many may find themselves needing to invest in new hardware, despite their current devices functioning adequately.
If immediate upgrading is not feasible, or if a device is too outdated for Windows 11, users can opt for Extended Security Updates (ESU), which will provide essential security updates until October 2026. However, this option does not include technical support or additional software updates. To access ESU for free, users must have the latest version of Windows 10, a Microsoft account, and a backup of their PC settings. Otherwise, a fee of (£22) or 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points will be required. For commercial entities, the cost is per device, varying by region.
What’s changing?
Since its launch in 2015, Microsoft has consistently updated Windows 10, enhancing features and addressing security vulnerabilities. While the company recommends a free upgrade to Windows 11, some older devices may not support the new operating system. Additionally, Microsoft is making it increasingly necessary to have a Microsoft account for using Windows 11, which may deter some users concerned about privacy.
What’s the risk?
The cessation of critical security updates for Windows 10 poses significant risks, as devices will become more susceptible to viruses and malicious software without the latest protective measures. Recent high-profile cyber-attacks on various sectors, including retail and manufacturing, underscore the importance of maintaining updated systems. Furthermore, businesses may face challenges in meeting regulatory compliance standards with unsupported software, as noted by Yusuf Mehdi, Microsoft’s Consumer Chief Marketing Officer, in a recent blog post. Users may also experience diminished functionality in other software as developers shift their focus away from older operating systems.
