Farewell Windows 10: How the End of Support Affects Your PC
- Ridhi Jain
- Oct 15
- 3 min read
Millions of users who continue to depend on the operating system that has reached the breaking point, with Windows 10 officially ceasing its support. The lack of free security updates and feature upgrades has now left the user with a choice of either upgrading to Windows 11 or seeking an alternative.
Windows 10 officially loses support at Microsoft
As of October 14, 2025, onwards, Microsoft said, Windows 10 is no longer a secure operating system to keep using; users will no longer have the feature or security updates, nor will it offer technical assistance to users. But that doesn't mean Windows 10 users won’t be able to use it anymore; users need to upgrade eventually.
But if you have a Windows PC from the last five years or so, you can likely upgrade to Windows 11 without new hardware. To the home users, though, the expiry of the support implies that the systems will fail to secure them against upcoming security threats.
Why Microsoft is retiring Windows 10
This decision of Microsoft to abandon Windows 10 can be explained by its attempt to move towards Windows 11, which has better functionality, stronger security, and AI functionalities.
Microsoft has focused on the fact that Windows 11 is now compatible with modern hardware, offers more efficient resource use, and provides easier access to cloud-based services such as OneDrive and Copilot AI. Another goal is to eliminate old hardware that fails to comply with the modern standards of energy efficiency and security.
The Risks of Continuing with Windows 10
After the end-of-life date, Windows 10 will continue to operate, but it will be less secure if you decide to run it. Unsupported systems are usually particularly vulnerable to hacks since they are no longer patched by the system.
Some key applications, like web browsers and office applications, might cease to update in Windows 10 over time, leading to compatibility and performance problems.
Upgrade or Replace: What Are the Options?
The easiest and safest way is to upgrade the eligible devices to Windows 11. The PC Health Check app, created by Microsoft, assists in checking whether your system is sufficiently configured to operate TPM 2.0, including having a chip and a compatible processor.
In case your machinery does not qualify, you can use it offline or consider other lightweight options. There are also possibilities of users investing in new PCs preloaded with Windows 11. Users can save valuable files in case they want to upgrade or replace systems, and store important files.
The Future Beyond Windows 10
The termination of Windows 10 is the end of a long period in the history of Microsoft. Windows 11 and other versions are now oriented to AI-enhanced computing experiences, enhanced security, and cloud integration at the company.
To users, this transition is an end and a start as it is a transition into the unknown of a new, smarter, faster, and safer digital experience.
Conclusion
The discontinuity of Windows 10 is the end of an age for millions of users all over the world. Although current systems will remain in use, they will be poorly available on the security updates as well as compatibility, thus necessitating upgrades.
The upgrade to Windows 11 guarantees further security, access to the newest features, and easier and safer computing. To the users who are not able to upgrade, searching for alternative operating systems or considering device replacement will be useful in protecting the data and ensuring that they continue to be productive in the dynamic digital environment.
Continue navigating The ScreenLight to know about more technology-related topics.
