Microsoft officially ended support for Windows 10, marking the close of a decade-long era for one of the most popular operating systems in history.
This means that as of today, the company will no longer deliver free security updates, feature enhancements, or technical assistance for the OS, leaving millions of devices potentially exposed to emerging threats.
With Windows 10 powering around 43% of global Windows devices as recently as July 2025, the transition poses significant challenges for users who have yet to migrate.
Microsoft urges immediate action, recommending either upgrading to Windows 11 for a more secure and efficient experience or enrolling in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for those needing extra time.
End of Support – Exposed to Cyber Attacks
The discontinuation of support does not render Windows 10 PCs immediately unusable; they will continue to operate normally for basic tasks. However, without ongoing security patches, these systems become increasingly vulnerable to viruses, malware, and exploits targeting unpatched flaws.
Microsoft has emphasized that post-October 14, 2025, no fixes will address new vulnerabilities, potentially slowing performance and disrupting compatibility with modern applications.
Technical support from Microsoft customer service will also cease, forcing users to rely on third-party solutions or self-troubleshooting for any issues.
Consumer advocacy groups like PIRG warn that this shift could lead to widespread security incidents, especially among the estimated 21 million UK users still on Windows 10. Over time, the lack of updates turns these devices into attractive targets for cybercriminals seeking to exploit outdated software.
For eligible devices, upgrading to Windows 11 remains the primary recommendation, offering free access if the PC meets minimum requirements like a 1 GHz processor, 4GB RAM, and TPM 2.0 support.
Users can verify compatibility directly through Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, where notifications may already prompt the process.
Those whose hardware falls short face options like purchasing a new Windows 11 pre-installed PC, with tools available to match devices to specific needs.
Alternatively, the one-year ESU program provides critical security updates for a fee, extending protection until October 13, 2026, ideal for businesses or individuals delaying full replacement. Dell and other manufacturers echo this advice, stressing backups via OneDrive before any upgrade to safeguard data.
The end of Windows 10 support highlights Microsoft’s push toward AI-integrated systems like Copilot+ PCs, but it raises environmental concerns as millions may discard functional hardware.
Surveys indicate about 25% of users plan to stick with the OS despite risks, potentially amplifying global cybersecurity threats. In the cybersecurity realm, this transition could spike vulnerabilities in enterprise environments reliant on legacy systems.
Microsoft positions Windows 11 as the secure future, but compatibility hurdles, such as Secure Boot requirements, may force widespread device refreshes.
As the deadline passes today, experts predict a surge in upgrade queries and ESU enrollments to mitigate immediate dangers. Ultimately, staying supported requires proactive steps to avoid isolation from evolving digital protections.
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The post Support for Windows 10 Ends Today Leaving Users Vulnerable to Cyberattacks appeared first on Cyber Security News.
