Microsoft has issued a final warning to hundreds of millions of Windows 10 users worldwide, as support for the operating system ends on 14 October. The company will no longer provide security updates, feature updates, or technical support, leaving devices vulnerable to cyber threats such as malware and viruses.
According to StatCounter Global Stats, just over 40 per cent of all Windows users still run Windows 10. In the UK, consumer campaigners estimate that around 5 million people use a device running the outdated software. A survey by Which? suggests that a quarter of these users intend to keep using Windows 10 after the deadline.
“Our research suggests millions of people may be unprepared for the phasing out of Windows 10,” said Lisa Barber, editor of Which?. “If you don’t act, you could become more vulnerable to hackers and scams.” In addition to security risks, users may notice decreased functionality as apps and features lose support.
Microsoft executive Yusuf Mehdi wrote in a blog post that updating to Windows 11 is a “natural part of the lifecycle” of software. The upgrade is free, but devices must meet minimum hardware requirements. Users can check eligibility by going to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and selecting Check for updates.
For those unable to upgrade, Microsoft offers the Windows 10 Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which provides critical security updates for one year until 13 October 2025. However, it does not include feature improvements or technical support. Users can enrol via the Windows Update section.
