Windows 10 Support is Ending - Time is Really Running Out
Today, I need to talk about something quite serious.
Microsoft’s Windows 10 end of support date is really just around the corner.
It feels like Windows 10 was just released yesterday, but time has flown by so quickly.
October 14, 2025 - please remember this date.
Is Windows 10 Really Coming to an End?
To be honest, yes, it’s pretty much over.
Microsoft seems really serious this time.
Of course, like with Windows XP in the past, they might provide emergency patches if serious security threats emerge, but we can’t count on that, can we?
As you can see from
StatCounter’s 2024-2025 Windows Version Market Share Report, more than half of the world’s Windows PCs are still running Windows 10.
In many countries, 5 to 6 out of every 10 PCs are still on Windows 10.
Can you see how big of a problem this is?
Why is This Such a Big Issue?
When security updates stop, it’s like putting up a sign on your computer that says “Please hack me” for all the cybercriminals out there.
As you can see in the chart below, Windows 10 users are still overwhelmingly dominant:
Source: StatCounter Global Stats - Windows Version Market Share
Security experts warn that unsupported operating systems can be exploited in attacks within an average of just 2 weeks.
Looking at real past cases, it’s truly frightening:
WannaCry Attack (2017)
The UK’s healthcare system was completely paralyzed.
Over 19,000 hospital appointments were cancelled, and emergency rooms and operating theaters had to shut down.
The damage was estimated at around $120 million.
Maersk Logistics Disaster (2017)
The NotPetya attack paralyzed port operations worldwide.
They had to completely replace 45,000 PCs and 4,000 servers.
Honda Sayama Factory (2017)
Production lines stopped for an entire day, affecting the production of about 1,000 vehicles.
These kinds of incidents could happen to us too…
So What Should We Do?
1. Upgrade to Windows 11 (The Most Reliable Option)
If your PC meets Windows 11 requirements, this is your best choice.
Windows 11 Minimum Requirements:
- 64-bit CPU (dual-core 1GHz)
- 4GB RAM or more
- 64GB storage space or more
- TPM 2.0 security chip
You can check this by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
Download and run the
Windows 11 Installation Assistant to check immediately.
2. Use Extended Security Updates (ESU)
If upgrading is difficult, here’s a temporary solution:
For Individual Users:
- Free (condition: MS account + sync PC settings to OneDrive using Windows Backup)
- Or use 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points
- Or pay $30
For Businesses:
- Year 1: $61 per device
- Price doubles every consecutive year (maximum 3 years)
🛠ESU Extension Method (For Individual Users)
Requirements:
- Windows 10 version 22H2 (Home/Pro/Pro Education/Workstation)
- Latest updates installed
- Administrator account required
- Microsoft account login required (local account not supported)
Extension Process:
- Go to Windows Settings → Update & Security
- Click “Windows 10 support ends in October 2025. Extend” link
- Choose payment or alternative options:
- Pay $30
- Use Microsoft Rewards points (1,000 points)
- Free Extension: When MS account + Windows Backup app conditions are met
Note that ESU only provides critical security updates, not new features or general technical support.
Think of it as a temporary measure.
3. Other Alternatives
Switch to Linux It’s free and secure, though it requires some learning.
Chrome OS Flex A free alternative provided by Google.
Unofficial Windows 11 Upgrade
Most PCs that slightly fall short of requirements can still run it well.
But that’s at your own risk.
What Are Governments Doing?
Many governments around the world are preparing response measures for Windows 10 end of support.
They’re providing guidance to public agencies and businesses, and cybersecurity organizations have entered emergency response mode.
But honestly, there are limits to what governments can do.
In the end, individuals and businesses need to prepare on their own.
What Businesses Should Do Right Now
- Complete Survey: Find out how many company PCs are running Windows 10
- Review Upgrade Possibilities: Check which PCs can upgrade to Windows 11
- Secure Budget: Prepare for new PC purchases or ESU costs
- Compatibility Testing: Verify that critical business applications work well on Windows 11
- Strengthen Security: For Windows 10 PCs that must remain, isolate networks and enhance controls
What About Individual Users?
If your specs allow it, upgrade to Windows 11 right away.
If not, at least apply for the free ESU.
Here’s a tip: unless your PC is really old, most can install Windows 11 unofficially.
You can find many methods online.
Search for TPM bypass or Rufus installation USB creation to find solutions.
Microsoft’s Real Intentions
Is Microsoft hoping people will buy new PCs with this opportunity?
The $30 ESU fee seems designed to make people think “might as well buy a new computer instead of paying this.”
Windows 11 definitely has better security and improved performance.
The AI features are quite impressive too.
But forcing people to replace perfectly good PCs seems a bit much, doesn’t it? It’s not great for the environment either.
Practical Advice
If you have money and love new technology: Upgrade to a Windows 11 PC
If you’re satisfied with your current PC: Consider unofficial Windows 11 upgrade or ESU
If you’re tech-savvy: Linux or Chrome OS Flex are good choices too
If you’re a company manager: Start planning and securing budget right now
Final Thoughts
There really isn’t much time left until Windows 10 support ends.
Don’t wait until it’s too late - please prepare now.
Sure, Microsoft might change their mind and extend support, but we can’t just sit around hoping for that, can we?
This is especially true for those working in companies.
Security is really important.
Once you’re breached, everything from personal information to company secrets could be lost.
So please, please prepare in advance.
Protecting your precious data and personal information is ultimately up to you.
Windows 10 end of support - it’s time to take this seriously and stop putting it off.
If this post was helpful, please share it with others around you.
Creating a safe computing environment for everyone is important.