Microsoft Drops Windows 10 Support With Millions Still Using It

Introduction

On October 14, 2025, Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10. Microsoft Support +2 Microsoft+2 This means that PCs running Windows 10 will no longer receive free security updates, bug fixes, or tech support from Microsoft. Windows Central + 3 Microsoft Support +3 Microsoft Learn + 3

Yet, despite this change, a significant number of users—individuals, small businesses, and even organizations—are still using Windows 10. Many are unsure what this means, what risks they face, and what steps they should take next.

In this article, you will learn:

1. What “end of support” means

2. How many users still use Windows 10

3. What risks you face if you stay on it

4. What your options are (upgrade, ESU, alternatives)

5. Some tips and recommendations

What Does “End of Support” Mean?

When Microsoft says it will “drop support” for Windows 10, here’s what changes and what does not change:

What Changes

• No more security updates and patches for newly discovered vulnerabilities after October 14, 2025. Microsoft Support +4 Microsoft Support +4 Windows Central + 4

• No more feature updates (new improvements). Microsoft Learn+2 Microsoft Learn+2

• Microsoft’s technical support (help desks, customer support) for Windows 10 stops. Microsoft+3 Microsoft Learn + 3 Microsoft Support +3

• Some Microsoft services (like Microsoft 365 Apps) may gradually reduce their compatibility or support on Windows 10. Microsoft Support +1

What Does Not Change Immediately

• Your computer will still work after support ends. You won’t be locked out, and your files and installed apps will remain accessible (for now). Microsoft Learn + 2 Windows Central + 2

• Some antivirus tools may still work independently. Windows Central + 1

• You can still use Microsoft 365 Apps on Windows 10 for a time (depending on their lifecycle and update paths) Microsoft Support +1

So, the end of support is not like your PC suddenly dying—but it becomes more risky and unsustainable over time.

How Many People Are Still Using Windows 10?

It might surprise you, but many millions still rely on Windows 10 today:

• According to StatCounter, between July 2024 and July 2025, Windows 10 still held about 42.88% of the Windows desktop market share. StatCounter Global Stats

• Meanwhile, Windows 11 had overtaken it in that period, at 53.51% share. StatCounter Global Stats

• Other sources put Windows 10’s share higher. For example, some reports in early 2025 show Windows 10 still dominating in many devices. Microsoft Learn + 3 The 3PCWorld + 3

• Microsoft itself reported that over 1.4 billion devices are active across Windows 10 and Windows 11 combined. Tom's Hardware

From user surveys, when asked about plans after support ends, about 26% of current Windows 10 users say they will continue using it regardless of support status. That number translates to millions of PCs still actively relying on an unsupported system. TechRadar

In short: though Windows 11 is growing, Windows 10 is still common, especially on older machines and budget systems and in places where upgrades or new hardware are difficult to adopt.

What Risks Do You Face If You Keep Using Windows 10?

Continuing to use Windows 10 after support ends is not risk-free. Here are the major dangers:

1. Security Vulnerabilities

Without patches, any newly discovered security flaws will remain uncorrected. Hackers can exploit those weaknesses. Microsoft Q&A+2 Microsoft Learn+2
Over time, your system becomes a more tempting target for malware, ransomware, and other attacks.

2. Compatibility Problems

New software, driver updates, and hardware may not support Windows 10 in the future. As developers focus on Windows 11 and newer OS versions, compatibility may decline.

3. Loss of Support for Microsoft Services

Some Microsoft 365 updates or features might stop working or become unstable on Windows 10 in the long run. Microsoft Support +1

4. Regulatory & Compliance Issues

In business settings, using an unsupported OS might violate IT compliance policies or regulations.

5. Hidden Costs

You may face increased costs in the future: needing to upgrade in haste, data loss, or paying for emergency fixes or third-party tools.

Given these risks, staying on Windows 10 indefinitely is not ideal in most cases.

What Are Your Options?

If you’re using Windows 10, don’t panic—but act wisely. Here are your options:

Option A: Upgrade to Windows 11

• This is the cleanest path if your PC hardware is capable (e.g., has TPM 2.0 and meets processor, memory, and storage requirements).
• Microsoft encourages this and offers tools to check compatibility. Microsoft Learn + 3 Windows Blog + 3 Windows Central + 3
• Advantages: you continue to get updates, new features, and full support.
• Downside: some older machines cannot meet the requirements; you might have to buy a new PC.

Option B: Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 10

Microsoft offers a temporary extension program called Extended Security Updates (ESU). Windows Central+2 Microsoft Learn+2

• For some users in Europe, ESU may be free under conditions (backup settings, Microsoft account). Windows Central + 1

• For others, there may be a cost (or use of Microsoft Rewards points). Windows Central+1

• ESU provides only security patches—not feature updates or full support. Microsoft Learn+1

• To get ESU, your PC likely needs to run Windows 10 version 22H2 and often requires you to link a Microsoft account. Microsoft Learn+2 Microsoft Learn+2

ESU is a stopgap measure—not a permanent solution.

Option C: Move to a Different OS

If your hardware is not suitable for Windows 11, you may consider changing to another operating system:

• Linux distributions: e.g., Ubuntu, Mint, etc. They are free, and many versions support older hardware.

• ChromeOS Flex or lightweight alternatives might work for basic productivity tasks.

Option D: Replace the PC

If your machine is very old or doesn’t meet Windows 11 standards, buying a new PC or laptop might be the best long-term choice.

How to Plan Your Move (Step by Step)

Here are recommended steps to transition smoothly:

1. Check hardware compatibility
   Use Microsoft’s PC Health Check or a similar tool to see if your machine can run Windows 11.
   Windows Blog +1

2. Upgrade backup & plan
   Back up important files and settings before making changes.

3. Decide path

   • If compatible, upgrade to Windows 11.

   • If not, enroll in ESU (if available) while planning further migration.

   • Or consider switching to Linux or buying new hardware.

4. Stay updated during the transition.

   • If you stay on Windows 10 temporarily, use a good antivirus, avoid risky downloads, and maintain strong security habits.

   • Keep other apps and drivers updated where possible.

5. Set a deadline
   Don’t delay too long. Once major software or services drop support for Windows 10, your options become narrower.

Why Microsoft Is Ending Windows 10 Support

It may feel harsh, but Microsoft’s decision follows its standard policy and practical needs:

• Windows 10 was released in 2015, and Microsoft generally supports each major OS for about 10 years. Microsoft Learn+2 Microsoft Learn+2

• Maintaining security, compatibility, new features, and backward support for older systems becomes increasingly costly over time.

• Microsoft wants to move forward with newer technologies and architecture that may not align with Windows 10’s older frameworks.

So, the cut-off is part of a business and technical life cycle—not a sudden arbitrary move.

Why Do So Many Still Use Windows 10?

It helps to understand why millions are still on Windows 10 even as its end looms:

• Many PCs, especially older ones, do not meet Windows 11 hardware requirements.

• Users may dislike or distrust Windows 11’s design changes or feel that Windows 10 “just works.”

• Some are part of markets or regions where upgrading computers is expensive or slow.

• In organizations or businesses, upgrade cycles are slower and sometimes delayed by budget, compatibility testing, or legacy software constraints.

Because of these reasons, many are caught in a limbo: they know they must eventually move but are not ready yet.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Microsoft ending support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, marks the end of an era. Microsoft Support +1 Millions still use it, but continuing on an unsupported OS invites growing risks. Windows Central + 3 TechRadar+3 The Verge+3

If you are one of those users, here is what you should do right now:

• Check if your PC can run Windows 11

• If yes, plan and execute the upgrade

• If not, consider enrolling in ESU or explore Linux or new hardware

• Back up your files

• Keep a deadline to move before too many services drop support