The H.A.C.K.E.R. Project

Microsoft has previously announced that Windows 10 will “reach the end of support on October 14, 2025” (Microsoft). Now that this date is fast approaching, you may have questions as to what this means. Overall, starting October 14^th, “technical assistance, feature updates and security updates [for Windows 10] will no longer be provided” by Microsoft (Microsoft).

What Does This Mean?

Simply put, this means that

• Microsoft’s support team will not provide customer support on a device if it is running Windows 10
• Microsoft will not produce any more updates or make any further changes to Windows 10
• Microsoft will not implement any security patches to Windows 10.

This does not mean that Windows 10 will stop working; you can still use your device running Windows 10. However, “without continued software and security updates, your PC will be at a greater risk for viruses and malware” (Microsoft). As a result, Microsoft recommends upgrading any devices running Windows 10 to Windows 11. In most cases, you will be able to do this via the system settings.

What If My Device Is Not Windows 11 Compatible?

If your device is not compatible with Windows 11, Microsoft recommends “that you enroll in the Windows 10​​​​​​​ Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) program or replace the device with one that supports Windows 11” (Microsoft). Microsoft’s ESU program “can protect your Windows 10 device up to a year after October 14, 2025”, and it is offered as a buffer to allow you enough time to upgrade your device to one that supports Windows 11 (Microsoft).

Of course, it is not mandatory that you replace your PC or laptop on Windows 10 with one that runs Windows 11. However, as time goes on, more security flaws in Windows 10 will be discovered, and your device will become increasingly vulnerable to attacks.

Fortunately, if you choose to replace your device, Microsoft’s Windows Backup feature can make it easier to transition from your old device to your new, Windows 11 device.

“It’s easy to bring your files and photos to a new PC using Windows Backup. Windows Backup helps you save and transfer your files, photos, settings, apps, and log in credentials so you can instantly feel at home on your new computer.” (Microsoft)

Resources & Further Reading

Microsoft. “Windows 10 Support Ends on October 14, 2025.” Microsoft.com, Microsoft Support, 2025, support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/windows-10-support-ends-on-october-14-2025-2ca8b313-1946-43d3-b55c-2b95b107f281.