End of Windows 10 Support: Time to Upgrade to Windows 11?

Windows 10 users, the end of the road is fast approaching. Microsoft has officially announced that it will halt support for Microsoft Office apps on Windows 10 systems starting October 14, 2025, marking the software's "end-of-life." What does this mean for you, and is this really the deadline to jump onto the Windows 11 bandwagon? Let’s unpack everything you need to know about this critical announcement and its implications for your PC.

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What’s Happening?​

Microsoft has shared that after October 14, 2025, devices still operating on Windows 10 will lose compatibility with its Microsoft 365 apps (formerly Office 365). In simple terms:

• Office apps like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook will no longer receive updates.
• This includes not only Microsoft 365 apps but also stand-alone Office versions like Office 2024, Office 2021, 2019, and even Office 2016.

While these applications may still function, users won't receive critical security patches or technical support, leaving systems increasingly vulnerable to cyber-attacks and software instability.
Microsoft calls this a "strong encouragement" to upgrade immediately to their shiny, albeit more demanding, Windows 11 operating system for a safer and optimized experience.

The Bigger Picture: Why End Support for Windows 10?​

Let’s not forget: Windows 10 was originally launched in 2015 and celebrated as "the last version of Windows you'd ever need." Yet, here we are. Why the change of heart? A key reason is Microsoft's initiative to modernize its ecosystem by emphasizing productivity, performance, and security, all baked into Windows 11. Windows 10 simply doesn’t align with Microsoft’s ambition to deliver future-ready systems.

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Is Everyone Really Upgrading to Windows 11? (Spoiler: They’re Not)​

Despite Windows 11 debuting in October 2021, adoption rates remain far from meteoric. According to statistics from Statcounter Global, as of now:

• Windows 10 still dominates with 62% share of the Windows market.
• Windows 11 is lagging behind with just 35% adoption worldwide.

Let’s get real: Why aren’t people jumping onto the Windows 11 ship? The answer lies in its hardware requirements. To upgrade, many users will need a system that supports:

• TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module): A dedicated security chip aimed at bolstering protection against cyber threats.
• A relatively modern CPU (Intel 8th Gen or later, AMD Zen 2 and above).
• UEFI firmware with Secure Boot capabilities.

For users holding onto older hardware, such requirements can be a monumental barrier. Indeed, some tech-savvy folks have created workarounds to install Windows 11 on unsupported systems, but Microsoft does not officially endorse this.

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Should You Stick with Windows 10?​

Let’s address the elephant in the room: What if you don’t upgrade?
Here are the high-level risks and options you have:

The Risks​

• No Security Updates: Meltdown, Spectre, WannaCry—do you need more examples of the threats that arise when patches disappear? Running unsupported software makes it easier for attackers to exploit vulnerabilities.
• Software Incompatibility: Beyond Microsoft apps, third-party software providers often cut off support for older OS versions quite quickly once updates cease. Expect apps like Chrome, Dropbox, or even gaming software to progressively phase out Windows 10 compatibility.
• Performance Instability: Without updates, bugs or compatibility issues with other apps may start creeping in over time.

The Options​

• Stick with Windows 10 for a While Longer: Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates (ESU) for $30/year to Home users. Businesses or specialized systems running Enterprise’s Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) can continue receiving updates.
• Upgrade to Windows 11: Still free for genuine Windows 10 users meeting system requirements. Remember, the upgrade process retains your files and apps unless you perform a clean install.
• Replace or Upgrade Hardware: If you’re clinging to outdated hardware, purchasing a Windows 11-ready device could be a smoother transition.

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What About Office Apps?​

If you live and breathe Microsoft Office apps—whether for work, school, or personal use—this announcement hits harder. Here’s the breakdown for Office-specific users:

• Business users: Microsoft 365 subscription plans typically come with more support leniency, but transitioning devices before end-of-support ensures no loss of productivity.
• Casual users: If you aren’t ready to part with your Windows 10 system, consider switching to free alternatives such as LibreOffice or cloud-based platforms like Google Workspace until you’re ready to upgrade.

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Microsoft’s Carrot for Windows 11 Users​

Microsoft has shown an eagerness to clean-slate its ecosystem. For users still undecided, they’re touting Windows 11 as the 2025 PC Refresh OS of the Year. Why?

• Advanced Security: From TPM 2.0 to Secure Boot, Windows 11 raises the bar for protection.
• Slicker Productivity Features: Snap Layouts for multitasking, streamlined Teams integration, and even gaming performance enhancements with AutoHDR and DirectStorage.
• Future-Proof Design: Performance optimizations for modern CPUs and GPUs ensure that hardware runs faster and longer.

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Deadlines Are Looming!​

October 14, 2025, might seem like a distant date, but in tech terms, it’s a looming deadline to switch or prepare for potential disruption. Here’s what we recommend:

• Begin assessing your current hardware capability for a Windows 11 upgrade sooner rather than later.
• If upgrading hardware isn’t viable, budget for ESU coverage or alternative Office platforms to avoid being caught unprepared.
• Take advantage of Microsoft’s free upgrade eligibility while you can—you don’t want to regret missing out on free-to-install Windows 11!

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Final Thoughts​

This announcement is yet another nudge from Microsoft, signaling that the clock is ticking for older systems. Windows 10 might be the reigning champ for now, but its days are numbered. Whether it’s hardware constraints or simple nostalgia delaying your transition, the time to plan your upgrade is now. Waiting until October 2025 will only add chaos to your tech life.
What’s your take on this announcement? Is Windows 11 worth the upgrade, or is Microsoft simply trying to force everyone into a new ecosystem? Let us know your thoughts below!

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Source: Jagran English https://english.jagran.com/technology/still-using-windows-10-os-microsoft-says-this-will-happen-to-your-pc-if-you-dont-upgrade-10212934